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.
This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).
Melbourne weather in November
The weather in Melbourne during November starts to take on a more summery feel. Average temperatures typically range from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees 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…).
So, as the calendar flips to November, you can 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 5 November, Melbourne gets a public holiday for the Melbourne Cup.
Major events and festivals in November
Check back regularly throughout the month – I’ll keep this page updated as I hunt down more events!
Melbourne Queer Film Festival
The annual film festival showcases contemporary queer cinema from Australia and overseas.
Dates: 14-24 November
Where: Various venues
Cost: Ticket prices vary
More info: Website
Melbourne Cup Carnival
Get frocked or suited up for this world-famous horse-racing carnival – “the race that stops a nation.”
Dates: 2-9 November
Where: Flemington Racecourse
Cost: Varies
More info: Website
Theatre, film and music
ALWAYS LIVE
ALWAYS LIVE is back, with 17 days of live music, with gigs held across the whole state.
Dates: 22 November-8 December
Where: Various venues
Cost: Ticket prices vary
More info: Website
Tina: Tina Turner the Musical
The life of the Queen of Rock ‘n Roll on stage – with all the hits you know.
Dates: Throughout November
Where: Princess Theatre
Cost: From $56
More info: Website
Sister Act
The global smash hit musical stars Casey Donovan as Deloris Van Cartier and brings the incredible soundtrack you know from the film.
Dates: Throughout November
Where: Regent Theatre
Cost: From $99
More info: Website
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.
Dates: Various dates in November
Where: Various venues
Cost: From $27
More info: Website
Blaktivism
Celebrate Blak cultures and Blak activism at this festival headlined by Baker Boy.
Dates: 22 November
Where: Hamer Hall
Cost: Tickets from $59
More info: Website
Beauty and the Beast
The much-loved classic tale comes to the stage in a spectacular performance.
Dates: Throughout November
Where: Her Majesty’s Theatre
Cost: From $80
More info: Website
The Fans Strike Back
Immerse yourself in a galaxy far, far away with this huge collection of items from the Famous Saga.
Dates: From 30 November
Where: The District Docklands
Cost: From $39
More info: Website
My Brilliant Career
A stage adaption of Miles Franklin’s novel, My Brilliant Career is all about Sybylla Melvyn growing up in the 1890s who decides she’s having it all.
Dates: From 7 November
Where: Melbourne Theatre Company
Cost: From $75
More info: Website
Melbourne Magic Show
Have your mind blown by the magic and illusion of Master Magician Luke Hocking.
Dates: Throughout November
Where: Melbourne Marriott Hotel
Cost: From $39.95
More info: Website
Museums and art
The Art of Banksy: Without Limits
The Art of Banksy: Without Limits features more than 180 artworks, such as certified art, prints on different kinds of materials, photos, sculptures, installations, digital installations, murals and mapping shows.
Dates: Throughout November
Where: The District Docklands
Cost: From $41
More info: Website
Leonardo da Vinci – 500 Years of Genius
The Lume’s latest immersive exhibition celebrates the life and art of of Italian polymath Leonardo da Vinci.
Dates: Throughout November
Where: Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre
Cost: From $44.90
More info: Website
Melbourne Out Loud: Life Through the Lens of Rennie Ellis
Known for his uncanny ability to slip into all kinds of social circles, this collection from photographer Rennie Ellis are a portrait of Melbourne.
Dates: Throughout November
Where: State Library of Victoria
Cost: Free
More info: Website
Cats and Dogs
Whether you’re a cat person or a dog person, animal lovers will enjoy this new exhibition at the NGV that explores humanity’s deep connection to these animals.
Dates: From 1 November
Where: NGV
Cost: From $13
More info: Website
Spirit of the Animals
Experience a stunning collection of artworks and cultural belongings that highlight the importance of animals in the life of Victoria’s First Peoples.
Dates: Until 24 November
Where: Koorie Heritage Trust
Cost: Free
More info: Website
Planetarium Nights
Head to Scienceworks for an adults-only, after dark experience. November’s events include Ticket to the Universe (a journey off planet and beyond the stars) and Pink Floyd Dark Side of the Moon (a tribute to the band’s iconic album).
Dates: Friday nights throughout November
Where: Scienceworks
Cost: Tickets from $25
More info: Website
Monopoly Dreams
Immerse yourself in giant Monopoly sets, win prizes and – most importantly – stay out of jail!
Dates: Throughout November
Where: Melbourne Central
Cost: From $38.50
More info: Website
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.
Dates: Various dates in November
Where: Royal Exhibition Building
Cost: From $29 for adults
More info: Museums Victoria website
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.
Dates: 2 November
Where: Fed Square
Cost: Free entry
More info: Website
Polish Festival @ Fed Square
Learn about and celebrate Polish culture at this annual festival at Fed Square, Australia’s largest Polish event. There’ll be lots of dancing and food.
Dates: 10 November
Where: Federation Square
Cost: Free entry
More info: Website
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.
Dates: 15-17 November
Where: Federation Square
Cost: Free entry
More info: Website
Summer Night Market
It’s almost summer and that means the return of Queen Vic Market’s Summer Night Market!
Dates: From 20 November, Wednesday evenings, 5-10pm
Where: Queen Vic Market
Cost: Free entry
More info: Website
Melbourne Mexican Festival
Enjoy fabulous Mexican cuisine and entertainment – and the chance to have your face painted in the manner of the Day of the Dead.
Dates: 22-24 November
Where: Tom’s Block, King’s Domain
Cost: Free entry
More info: Website
Lankan Fest
Dive into the world of Sri Lankan culture and experience traditional dance, music and song, along with amazing food.
Dates: 23 November
Where: Federation Square
Cost: Free entry
More info: Website
Colours of Malaysia
Experience Malaysian culture in all its vibrancy, with plenty of traditional food, music, dance, art and interactive workshops.
Dates: 30 November-1 December
Where: Queen Vic Market
Cost: Free entry
More info: Website
What are you most excited to see and do in November in Melbourne?
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Best Melbourne resources
- Check out my Melbourne travel guide for everything you need to know about planning a trip to Melbourne
- Look for flights to Melbourne on Skyscanner.
- Book accommodation on Booking.com or Expedia for your Melbourne trip. The Ovolo Laneways Hotel is a good choice in the CBD.
- You won’t really need a car in Melbourne, but if you do want to get out of the city, then rent a car through DiscoverCars.
- Pick up a copy of the Lonely Planet Pocket Melbourne to help plan your trip.