What Events Are Happening in Melbourne in October 2026?
October 2026 is a busy month for events in Melbourne, with major highlights including Melbourne Fringe Festival, Melbourne International Jazz Festival, Melbourne Fashion Week, the Melbourne Marathon Festival, Italian Festa, live concerts, sporting events, exhibitions and markets. With spring underway, visitors can combine these events with Melbourne's cafés, gardens, laneways and outdoor attractions.
Melbourne Sphere editors · Editorial team
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October is a busy month in Melbourne, with arts festivals, live music, fashion, sporting events, markets, exhibitions and cultural celebrations taking place across the city. Spring also brings longer days and plenty of opportunities to enjoy Melbourne's outdoor spaces.
Melbourne Fringe Festival
The Melbourne Fringe Festival runs from 29 September to 18 October 2026, bringing hundreds of arts and performance events to venues around the city. Visitors can find comedy, theatre, music, visual arts and experimental performances throughout the festival.
Melbourne International Jazz Festival
Jazz fans can enjoy the Melbourne International Jazz Festival from 16–25 October 2026. The festival features live performances across Melbourne and celebrates jazz, improvisation and contemporary music.
Melbourne Fashion Week
Melbourne Fashion Week runs from 19–25 October 2026, bringing fashion shows, exhibitions and other fashion-related events to venues across the city. It is an opportunity to see designers, creative work and Melbourne's fashion community.
Nike Melbourne Marathon Festival
Sports enthusiasts can look forward to the Nike Melbourne Marathon Festival on 10–11 October 2026. The event takes over Melbourne's streets and includes several running events, creating a lively atmosphere around the city.
Italian Festa and Expo
The Italian Festa and Expo takes place on 17–18 October at the Royal Exhibition Building and Museum Plaza. The event celebrates Italian culture and provides visitors with food, entertainment and cultural experiences.
Constellation Cup
Netball fans can watch Australia's Diamonds take on New Zealand's Silver Ferns on 28 October 2026 at John Cain Arena as part of the Constellation Cup.
Live Music and Concerts
October also has a busy live-music calendar. Current listings include Olivia Dean, TISM, Post Malone, Tame Impala, Midge Ure, Zara Larsson, Don McLean, Hilary Duff, Lily Allen and Plain White T's at Melbourne venues during the month.
Oktoberfest Celebrations
Visitors can also experience Oktoberfest celebrations at venues including Munich Brauhaus and Hofbräuhaus during October. Events feature German food, music and themed entertainment.
Art, Exhibitions and Theatre
October is also a good month for Melbourne's museums, galleries and theatres. ROME: Empire, Power, People continues at Melbourne Museum until 25 October, while Dracula: Ballet at its Darkest runs until 25 October. Other exhibitions and performances are also scheduled throughout the month.
Markets and Spring Activities
October is also a good time to explore Melbourne's weekend markets. Events such as CRFT*WRK on 3 October and the Hawthorn Makers Market on 4 October offer opportunities to browse locally made crafts, art, jewellery and other products.
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