Exciting Events in Moonee Ponds

Just a stone’s throw from the Melbourne CBD, Moonee Ponds is a thriving cultural heartbeat where heritage charm meets contemporary energy. Known for its tree-lined streets and the legendary buzz of Puckle Street, this inner north-west gem serves as a premier destination for those seeking the best of Melbourne life. With its seamless accessibility and welcoming atmosphere, it is a place where locals and visitors alike gather to experience a rich tapestry of community spirit and suburban elegance.
Throughout the year, Moonee Ponds acts as a versatile stage for a diverse range of experiences, from sophisticated social gatherings to family-friendly festivals. Whether you are drawn to the tranquil vistas of Queens Park or the high-stakes excitement of the racecourse, there is always an invitation to discover something new. This is your local guide to the vibrant pulse of our neighborhood—a consistent hub of connection, culture, and unforgettable moments.

Billed as the world’s largest travelling oddities event, this expo brings hand-selected vendors, dealers, artists, and small businesses to the Exhibition Pavilion showcasing all things weird and wonderful: taxidermy, preserved specimens, original artwork, antiques, and handcrafted oddities. Sideshow performers take the stage throughout the day, and hands-on taxidermy and entomology classes are also available for those keen to get closer to the craft. A drawcard for collectors, curious minds, and anyone after a day out of the ordinary.

Image source: melbourneshowgrounds.com
Temple of Desire

Step inside the Temple of Desire, an immersive sensory exhibition staged at the Exhibition Pavilion that invites visitors into an imaginary sanctum blending the spiritual and the sensual. Designed as a fully enveloping experience rather than a traditional exhibition, it draws on atmosphere, light, and space to create something visitors move through and feel rather than simply observe. A striking addition to the Clocktower precinct’s spring program for those after something a little different.

Image source: clocktowercentre.com.au
Victorian Opera in Concert

Settle in for an unforgettable morning as three of Victorian Opera’s most dazzling young talents take the Clocktower stage. Part of the Centre’s popular Morning Music series, this concert brings together operatic gems, hidden treasures, and delightful surprises, showcasing the calibre of rising performers coming through Victoria’s opera scene. A relaxed, daytime setting makes it an easy and rewarding introduction to opera for newcomers, as well as a treat for seasoned enthusiasts.

Image source: clocktowercentre
DUST

Dust is one man’s unforgettable journey, examining generational trauma, resilience, and survival against the backdrop of post-World War II England.

Image source: clocktowercentre

Bring the whole family for one of the most wholesome live gigs around. Teeny Tiny Stevies will absolutely delight the littlies with catchy, feel-good songs, while sneaking in enough charm and humour to keep parents entertained too. A relaxed, family-friendly outing at the Clocktower Centre, with sessions on offer to suit different nap schedules.

Image source: clocktowercentre

Vika & Linda captivate audiences with their powerful harmonies and magnetic stage presence, and to celebrate the release of their new album Where Do You Come From? audiences will be treated to a new show featuring the songs and stories of their inimitable career.

Image source: clocktowercentre
They Sang at Carnegie Hall

In this show, Bernadette Robinson pays homage to the world’s finest performers that graced the stage at New York institution Carnegie Hall. Think Maria Callas, Billie Holiday and more!

Image source: clocktowercentre
National 4X4 Outdoors Show

Over three massive days, thousands of products will be on display from the industry’s leading outdoor adventure and lifestyle brands – It’s your chance to explore off-road camper trailers, caravans and tents, new model 4WDs and aftermarket accessories, camping gear, and so much more!

Image source: melbourneshowgrounds.com

Over three massive days, thousands of products will be on display from the industry’s leading outdoor adventure and lifestyle brands – It’s your chance to explore off-road camper trailers, caravans and tents, new model 4WDs and aftermarket accessories, camping gear, and so much more!

Image source: clocktowercentre.com.au
Golden Age of Broadway

Experience the glamour, wit and sweeping emotion of Broadway’s Golden Age in this captivating concert from the graduating students of the Victorian College of the Arts.

Image source: melbourneshowgrounds.com

This year’s Awards night will transform into an immersive, roaming experience, offering guests the unique opportunity to explore and celebrate excellence in spirits in a dynamic setting.

As you move through the venue, you’ll be able to taste an outstanding selection of Gold and Trophy-winning spirits, each thoughtfully paired with delicious food designed.

Image source: melbourneshowgrounds.com

A card show for all ages! Bringing you only the best vendors from around Victoria all under one roof!

Image source: melbourneshowgrounds.com
Canter Con

CANTER Con is a dynamic equestrian event that brings together coaches and leaders from Equestrian Australia, Pony Club Australia, and Riding for the Disabled to elevate coaching standards across the sector.

Image source: melbourneshowgrounds.com
Dangerous Goods XXL Festival

This is the next chapter of DGXXL — bigger, louder, and built for scale.

A massive venue, 15 headline artists, and energy that doesn’t let up. And yes — based on what happened last time, this one is expected to sell out fast.

Image source: melbourneshowgrounds.com

Spot is one of the most loved dogs in the world, and he’s coming back to Australia! Spot and his friends are off on a new adventure to visit Spot’s dad on the farm and meet the farm animals.

Image source: clocktowercentre.com.au
Kings of Swing with Craig Schneider

Step back in time to when swing was king. Multi award-winning pianist Craig Schneider revives the memories of those glorious nights spent dancing to big bands.

Image source: clocktowercentre.com.au

Experience the Victorian Careers Show 2026 – an interactive expo bringing together universities, TAFEs, employers and training providers. Explore study and work pathways, get practical advice on VCE subjects and tertiary entry, and attend inspiring seminars from education and industry experts. It’s your opportunity to connect, learn and plan your future in one exciting space.

Image source: melbourneshowgrounds.com

Victorian Careers & Employment Expo is open from March 19 to 21, 2026 at the Melbourne Showgrounds. The Expo will showcase over 130 organisations and employers with career opportunities for all ages. Visitor Entry is Free.

Image source: melbourneshowgrounds.com
Moonee Valley Festival

The Moonee Valley Festival is the largest event of the year, where music, food, and community come together for an unforgettable celebration of summer. With an exciting lineup of performances, market stalls, and workshops, it’s the ultimate festival for all ages.

In 2025, attendees danced to the beats of Budjerah, enjoyed the energy of the Hot Potato Band, boogied with Sugar Fed Leopards, and were swept away by pop sensation IVANA. The festival returns in 2026 with more surprises, performances, and fun to be had!

Distance from The Sebel Melbourne Moonee Ponds: ~2 min (350 m) via Homer St and State Route 35

Image source: melbourneshowgrounds.com

The Melbourne Rodeo continues the heart-pounding Stampede Series — Australia’s largest rodeo circuit, proudly presented by the National Rodeo Co. in association with John Gill & Sons Rodeo and the APRA.

Image source: melbourneshowgrounds.com

Get ready to rock at the Lincoln Park Twilight Festival with Eskimo Joe headlining the Twilight Concert, celebrating 20 years of their award-winning album Black Fingernails, Red Wine. The night will also feature Joan & the Giants, fresh from their Australian tour, and crowd favorite DJ be Kind to Other People, ensuring the dance floor stays lively. The whole family can enjoy activities, food, and entertainment, making this a perfect evening out. Bring a picnic, relax, and enjoy the free concert under the stars!

Distance from The Sebel Melbourne Moonee Ponds: ~7 min (2.8 km) via Mt Alexander Rd/A60

Image source: mvcc.vic.gov.au

From Wednesday 18 to Sunday 22 February 2026, the Melbourne Showgrounds will once again become Victoria’s ultimate hub for road-trippers, outdoor explorers, and families looking for their next great getaway. Whether you’re discovering caravanning for the first time or upgrading to your dream setup, the Supershow is the place to see it all.

Image source: melbourneshowgrounds.com
The Mediterranean Fiest

The Mediterranean Fiesta returns for a vibrant celebration of cultural heritage in the heart of the community! Join your neighbors, family, and friends for a day filled with live music, dancing, and exciting kids’ activities. Sample local dining delights, enjoy performances from talented artists, and experience the lively atmosphere. Performers include: MC: Lisa-Marie Parker, Piera Dennerstein (Opera), DJ Moto Bella Vespa, Vocal Arts Studio, School of Tarantella. Activities & Entertainment: The Messy Club, Face painting & Library on the Move Van.

Distance from The Sebel Melbourne Moonee Ponds: ~14 min (7.8 km) via Mt Alexander Rd/A60

Image source: mvcc.vic.gov.au
Horse racing – Black Caviar

It is with deep sadness that the Madden, Hawkes, Wilkie, Taylor and Werrett families wish to advise that champion mare Black Caviar passed away peacefully today.

Black Caviar was a once-in-a-lifetime horse, most famous for her stellar racing career which saw her undefeated with 25 wins from 25 starts.

Image source: vrc.com.au

Laneway Festival Melbourne | 13 February 2026 | Flemington Park, VIC

Laneway Festival
The St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival is a premier traveling indie music tour showcasing a killer lineup of live acts, often featuring indie rock, electro-dance, and pop artists from around the world. As the Melbourne stop on the Australia/New Zealand tour, the festival brings a vibrant, music-discovery-focused atmosphere to Flemington Park. Attendees can enjoy a full day of performances across multiple stages from artists who have released new music this year.
Image source: lanewayfestival.com

BE MESMERISED as we celebrate the Year of the Horse with a thrilling day of world class racing.

Headlining the race card is the $1 million Group 1 Australian Guineas, bringing together the nation’s best three-year-olds. Also on the program is the prestigious $1 million Inglis Sprint (1200m), a race restricted to Inglis Sales graduates and the $300,000 Group 2 Blamey Stakes (1600m). It’s a day charged with fresh energy, rising stars and the social occasions of the season.

Image source: vrc.com.au

Plan Your Staycation at The Sebel Melbourne Moonee Ponds

After enjoying these exciting events, there’s no better place to rest than The Sebel Melbourne Moonee Ponds. Our spacious, fully serviced apartments are the perfect place to unwind, whether you’re in town for a show or an expo. Plus, with local dining options like Saros Bar & Dining just a stone’s throw away, your Moonee Ponds staycation will be one to remember.