What’s on in Melbourne in November 2026

November has arrived, and it’s time for another exciting month in Melbourne. As we transition from October, we’re greeted with (hopefully!) fewer rainy days and plenty of events and activities.

Melbourne’s November agenda offers something for everyone, whether you call this city home or you’re just passing through. With the weather warming up, it’s the perfect time to get outdoors more and experience what makes Melbourne so special.

In this article, I’ll guide you through some of the highlights you won’t want to miss this November. From art exhibitions to food festivals, live performances to sporting events, Melbourne is buzzing with opportunities for you to make the most of the month ahead.

Here’s a curated selection of the must-dos happening this November in the city.

Melbourne weather in November

The weather in Melbourne during November starts to take on a more summery feel. Temperatures range from 13 to 32 degrees Celsius (55 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit), with an average temperature of 20.5 (69 Fahrenheit).

While it’s not unusual to encounter a few showers here and there, the month is generally drier, which means more outdoor activities. It’s the perfect time to hang out in Melbourne’s parks and gardens or take in the scenic beauty of the city without worrying too much about unexpected rain (yeah, but we still have four seasons in a day, of course…). Having said that, November last year was one of the wettest Novembers, so expect the unexpected!

So, as the calendar flips to November, you can usually anticipate milder temperatures and more stable weather, making it the perfect time to explore all that Melbourne has to offer.

Check the upcoming Melbourne weather forecast online, and read my full guide to spring in Melbourne.

Public holidays in Melbourne in November

The only city in the world that has a public holiday for a horse race! On 3 November 2026, Melbourne gets a public holiday for the Melbourne Cup.

Major events and festivals in November

Melbourne Queer Film Festival

This annual film festival showcases contemporary queer cinema from Australia and overseas.

Melbourne Cup Carnival

Get frocked or suited up for this world-famous horse-racing carnival – “the race that stops a nation.”

Myer Christmas Windows

This much-loved Christmas tradition will be revealed!

Theatre, film and music

My Fair Lady

Celebrating 70 dazzling years since its glorious Broadway debut, Lerner and Loewe’s iconic My Fair Lady is based on the 2016 Australian production directed by Julie Andrews, who was catapulted into stardom when she originated the role of Eliza Doolittle, an irrepressible Cockney flower girl who transforms into a lady of society.

One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest

Adapted from the novel by Ken Kesey and written by Dale Wasserman, this play takes audiences inside the stark world of a psychiatric institution ruled with icy control by the formidable Nurse Ratched. Starring Jason Donovan.

A (Very) Musical Christmas

Zan Rowe hosts a heartwarming, star-studded evening featuring Rob Mills, Casey Donovan, Caroline O’Connor and more of your musical theatre favourites singing Christmas classics. The event supports Beyond Blue.

Candelight Concert Series with Fever

Fever brings their stunning candlelit concerts to venues across Melbourne. There’s everything from the Best of Frank Sinatra and Fleetwood Mac to tributes to Queen and Beyonce.

Darkfield

Step inside a shipping container in COMPLETE darkness and experience the immersive The Invisible Man or Flight (or grab a deal and do both!).

Maho Magic Bar

Be transported to a neon-lit Tokyo night of mischief and amazement, where Japan’s very best perform exclusive magic shows at your table.

Melbourne Magic Show

Have your mind blown by the magic and illusion of Master Magician Luke Hocking.

Museums and art

Barbie: The Exhibition

Created by the Design Museum, London, Barbie: The Exhibition invites you to journey into the Barbie universe and discover over 250 remarkable objects, with rare, unique and innovative dolls dating from 1959 to the present day. 

ENCORE! 50 Objects. 50 Years. One Collection

Explore treasures from across Australia’s performing arts history – including Kylie’s legendary gold hot pants, costumes worn by Olivia Newton-John and Hugh Jackman, and Midnight Oil drummer Rob Hirst’s drum kit.

Nocturnal: Museum After Dark

On the second Thursday of each month, experience Melbourne Museum after hours – and child free. Explore the exhibitions, listen to themed talks and tours, or get involved in interactive activities. There’s also DJs and live music, as well as food and drinks.

Prison Island

Step into Prison Island, an interactive adventure where you and your team take on 34 challenge cells, combining escape rooms with physical and mental challenges.

Planetarium Nights

Head to Scienceworks for an adults-only, after dark experience. November’s events TBA.

Experience the Dome Promenade

One of Melbourne’s most iconic buildings has opened a hidden part that hasn’t been accessible to the public for 100 years.

Food, drink and community events in November

Day of the Dead Celebration

Head to Fed Square to celebrate “Dia de los Muertos” and enjoy Mexican food and entertainment.

A Foodie Affair: Cultured & Cured

Take a self-guided, mouth-watering journey through the world of pickled, cultured, cured and fermented flavours at South Melbourne Market.

Palestine National Day

Enjoy authentic Palestinian dishes from food trucks, join dabke and tatreez workshops (dance and embroidery), get henna done, and explore market stalls featuring the very best of Palestinian craftsmanship and products at this family-friendly event.

Polish Festival

Polish culture, music and food take over Fed Square for a day celebrating this country’s heritage. Try Polish dishes like Pierogi (dumplings), Kiełbasa (smoked sausage), and sweet treats such as Pączki (jam-filled doughnuts).

Lankan Fest

Dive into the world of Sri Lankan culture and experience traditional dance, music and song, along with amazing food.

Summer Night Market

It’s almost summer and that means the return of Queen Vic Market’s Summer Night Market!

African Music and Cultural Festival

Live music, drum workshops, street food, short films and spoken-word performances – all showcasing various cultures from across the African continent.

Alliance Française Christmas Market

Pick up fabulous Frenchy gifts and sample French foods like crepes and raclette at this festive market.

The Big Design Market

Shop from a beautiful range of unique and handmade gifts, including jewellery, homewares, fashion and more from over 250 designers from around Australia.

Taste of Persia

Experience the tastes, sights and sounds of Persian culture at this bustling market, featuring live entertainment, family-friendly activities and market stalls.

Colours of Malaysia

Celebrate all things Malaysian! Taste tantalising dishes, from nasi lemak to satay and char kuey teow. There’ll also be a Malay martial arts display, band performances and some amazing prizes up for grabs.

What are you most excited to see and do in November in Melbourne?