We’re all feeling it—the stress and fatigue from our busy lifestyles piling on as we near the end of April. But in true Melburnian fashion, the city’s got a bunch of activities on offer for a much needed pick-me-up. Whether it’s getting your downward dog on at a pilates session at Afloat or revelling in a Star Wars live orchestra screening, this weekend is bound to be a good one.
If you’re looking for some inspo, here’s what’s happening this weekend in Melbourne:
Gotcha! McEwans Celebrity Pavement
From the ‘70s ‘til the ‘90s, our very own Bourke Street had its own Hollywood Walk of Fame, albeit found in the entrance to a McEwans Hardware Store. Now, the pavement that once contained marks of iconic international and Aussie stars has been restored by historian Robyn Annear—and it’s finally open for the public. With Gotcha!, you’ll see a display of 40 enduring handprints, including the likes of Evonne Goolagong, Jamie Redfern, Merv Hughes, and more. Catch a glimpse of Melburnian history right at the City Gallery only until Friday 16 August.
THE DETAILS:
When: From Wednesday 17 April to Friday 16 August
Where: City Gallery, 110 Swanston Street, Melbourne CBD
For more information, click here.
Star Wars: Return Of The Jedi Live In Orchestra
Catch a blockbuster screening of Star Wars: Return of the Jedi and be immersed in the epic battle between the Galactic Empire and the Rebel Alliance—all with a grand twist. Taking place at Hamer Hall, you’ll be accompanied with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra as they bring John Williams’ iconic score alive. Tickets are guaranteed to sell out with the limited run, so gather your Star Wars crew and get booking over here.
THE DETAILS:
When: Various times, Until Wednesday 24 April
Where: Hamer Hall, 100 St Kilda Road, Southbank
Find the full program here.
Find The Gruffalo At Kryal Castle
If you’re up for an immersive family adventure this weekend, Kryal Castle is the go-to. Journey through Victoria’s first-ever AR trail inspired by classic children’s book The Gruffalo and follow clues hinting the iconic Gruffalo’s whereabouts. There are heaps of activities set to entertain once you’ve solved the mystery, including mediaeval jousting matches, in-and-outs of knight training, and trial by combat performances. And that’s not all—be a part of the epic fairytale with axe throwing, archery, and potion-making awaiting your presence. End all the fun with a live Gruffalo stage show where you and your little ones can relive the classic bedtime story. Book a ticket right here.
THE DETAILS:
When: From 10am to 4pm, Until Sunday 21 April
Where: Kryal Castle, 121 Forbes Road, Leigh Creek
For more information, click here.
Afloat And Sum Of Us: Pilates On The Yarra
There’s pilates at-home,pilates in a suave studio,ut then there’s riverside pilates. This Saturday, Afloat is linking up with wellness studio Sum of Us for a one-hour pilates session by the water.you’ll Connect with your mind, body and spirit through classic poses and breathwork techniques right in the open-air studio for just $15. It’s all-inclusive with entry, mats, equipment, snacks and refreshments (think fresh fruit and cold-pressed juices from Greene Street Juice Co). Nab a spot for this Saturday’s session by signing up for the waitlist over here.
THE DETAILS:
When: 8:30am, Saturday 20 April
Where: Pool Deck, Afloat, 2 Flinders Walk, Melbourne CBD
For more information, click here.
Polly Woodside Pirate Day
Drop by the South Wharf pier dressed in your best Pirate suit and transform into a sea thief for a fulfilling day of adventure. You’ll don a new Pirate name as you enter and be branded with (washable) tattoos for the occasion. Swing on some ropes or get scrubbin’ on the deck—up to you. Get stuck in the craft activities, reading nooks, or the treasure hunt for a nifty prize. And for the best dressed kids, they’ve got a Fashions on the Plank show to walk, so get booking over here.
THE DETAILS:
When: 10am to 12:30pm and 1:30pm to 4:00pm, Sunday 21 April
Where: Polly Woodside, 21 South Wharf Promenade, South Wharf
Click here for all the details.
Big Vegan Market
Shop and eat everything vegan at the Big Vegan Market as over 200 vendors around the state are coming down to Melbourne for a wicked time. We’re talking stalls from the likes of Zenj Australia, Bare Blends, Vegan Chocolate Co, and more with hefty goods on offer. Think vegan food, drinks, clothing, make-up, skin care, and more. Plus, an in-house DJ will take on the decks to soundtrack your big day out. Grab your tickets here.
THE DETAILS:
When: 10am to 6pm, Saturday 20 April to Sunday 21 April
Where: Royal Exhibition Building, 9 Nicholson Street, Carlton
For more information, click here.
Thai Sunday Market At EziStreat
This neon-lit spot is throwing a full-blown Thai market this Sunday, and you’re invited. There’s 20+ stalls on standby over at EziStreat, jam-packed with good eats, crafts and entertainment to mimic the streets of Bangkok. Dig into authentic Thai delicacies from the likes of Soi Thai, ASAP Room, Yummy Bear Bakery, and Pastel House. You can even cop affordable items from Thai brands— from clothing, accessories, down to press-on nails to complete the look. Take it even further with Thai henna and temporary tattoos, then find out what your future holds with tarot readings and traditional Thai birthday horoscopes. Book your ticket over here.
THE DETAILS:
When: 12pm to 4pm, Sunday 21 April
Where: EziStreat, 275 Macaulay Road, North Melbourne
For all the details, click here.
Run The Tan
The showcase charity event Run The Tan is gearing for its annual return this Sunday. You can walk or run alongside elite athletes, celebrities, emergency service workers, and schools around the iconic Tan track at the Botanical Gardens—all to raise funds and awareness for local mental health organisations. Nab a medal when you cross the finish line and soothe the muscles with a complimentary massage. Register alone or with a team over here.
The Details:
When: From 8am, Sunday 21 April
Where: Pillars of Wisdom, Tan Track, Melbourne CBD
For more information, click here.
The Bubbles Festival
This country-wide festival of all things sparkling is taking its first stop here in Melbourne and we could not be any more keen. Your ticket will grant you access to a two-hour tasting session, accompanied by intros from The Bubbles Review founder Natalie Pickett. There will be more than 10 Victorian-produced and international sparkling wines to sip on, all poured in your complimentary glass. Pair it with the flowing canapés and get acquainted with the bubble growers and producers. Secure your spot right here.
THE DETAILS:
When: 12pm to 2pm and 3pm to 5pm, Saturday 20 April
Where: Bells Hotel, 157 Moray Street, South Melbourne
For more information, click here.
Kubrik Frankston
Frankston waterfront is lighting up with a sprawling open-air disco made entirely out of illuminated water tanks. With top-tier international and local DJs taking the decks, the experience is made all the more unique as the glowing cubes are synchronised with the pulsating beats. D.O.C Pizza, Smokey Boiz BBQ and Frankston BRewhouse are all making a pop-up appearance to cover the food and bev front, and for some family-friendly fun, chuck on some headphones and get groovy at the silent disco sessions until it ends this Saturday.
THE DETAILS:
When: Until Saturday 20 April
Where: 510 Nepean Highway, Frankston
For the full program, click here.
For more happening around Melbourne, check these out:
- What's Happening In Melbourne This Month
- The Best Things To Do With Kids In Melbourne
- The Best Date Ideas In Melbourne
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