Spring in Melbourne is packed with major festivals and sporting events as the city shakes off winter.
Here are some of the top events happening in Melbourne during September, October, and November 2025
AFL Grand Final (27 September 2025)
Melbourne’s sporting pride culminates in the Australian Football League Grand Final at the MCG. The whole city buzzes with footy fever, including a public holiday and a parade on the Friday before the match. Expect a full house as Australia takes on England in the battle for the Ashes urn during the Boxing Day Test later in the year. yes, Melbourne sports fans have a lot to celebrate.
Melbourne Fringe Festival (30 Sept 19 Oct 2025)
Over three massive weeks of comedy,cabaret, theatre and more fill venues across the city. Melbourne Fringe showcases independent arts, with hundreds of emerging artists, performers, and musicians in a vibrant program. 2025 marks the festival’s 43rd year, celebrating Melbourne’s status as one of Australia’s most culturally engaged cities.
Nike Melbourne Marathon Festival (12 October 2025)
Runners from around the world take to Melbourne’s streets for this iconic marathon event, with thousands finishing inside the Melbourne Cricket Ground. From a full 42.2 km marathon to shorter fun runs, the event brings a festival atmosphere to the city and is a great spectacle for spectators.
Melbourne International Jazz Festival (17–26 October 2025)
The city swings to the sounds of jazz in late October. Over 10 days, international stars and local artists perform at venues large and small. From intimate club gigs to big outdoor concerts (like the free show at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl), this festival showcases Melbourne’s vibrant jazz scene.
Melbourne Cup Carnival (31 Oct 8 Nov 2025)
Come early November, Melbourne is all about horse racing and fashion. The Melbourne Cup Carnival at Flemington Racecourse includes Derby Day, Melbourne Cup Day (4 Nov 2025), Oaks Day and Stakes Day. The Cup is Australia’s most famous horse race and a public holiday in Melbourne known as “the race that stops a nation”. Thousands flock to Flemington in their finest spring outfits for world-class racing and festivities.
