Melbourne’s spectacular calendar of major events in 2025 promises an unforgettable year of world-class sports, cultural celebrations, and entertainment. As Australia’s events capital, Melbourne is set to host an impressive lineup of international sporting competitions, artistic festivals, and cultural experiences that will attract visitors from across the globe.
The year 2025 is particularly exciting, with March emerging as an extraordinary month featuring three major international events. Whether you’re planning to attend the Australian Open in January or the Melbourne Cup in November, The Sebel Melbourne Moonee Ponds offers the perfect base for your Melbourne adventure. Let’s explore the unmissable major events that will define Melbourne in 2025.
Australian Open – January 12 to 26, 2025

Image source: Australia Open 2025
The first Grand Slam of the tennis calendar serves up world-class action at Melbourne Park. This prestigious tournament attracts the biggest names in tennis, competing for glory under the Australian summer sun. The 2025 Australian Open promises two weeks of intense competition, exciting matches, and unforgettable moments that will keep spectators on the edge of their seats.
Beyond the center court action, the Australian Open is a festival of entertainment, featuring live music, gourmet food offerings, and family-friendly activities throughout the Melbourne Park precinct. With matches extending into the evening, staying at The Sebel Melbourne Moonee Ponds provides the perfect balance of accessibility and comfort, just a short journey from all the excitement.
Midsumma Festival – January 19 to February 9, 2025

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Melbourne’s premier LGBTQIA+ cultural festival returns for three weeks of artistic expression, celebration, and community events. With over 194 events spanning visual arts, performance, film, parties, and sports, Midsumma transforms Melbourne into a vibrant celebration of diversity and inclusion.
The festival features signature events including the iconic Midsumma Carnival at Alexandra Gardens and the stunning Pride March through St Kilda. Each event showcases the creativity, resilience, and joy of Melbourne’s diverse LGBTQIA+ communities and their allies.
Summer at The Valley – January 24 – March 7, 2025

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The Valley transforms into Melbourne’s premier summer entertainment destination with six electrifying race meetings under lights. This spectacular festival kicks off on January 24 with the Group 2 Clamms Seafood Australia Stakes Night, featuring the unique Celebration Of The Horse event where visitors can experience the majesty of these magnificent animals up close and personal.
The festival continues with special themed nights, including a vibrant Lunar New Year celebration in February marking the Year of the Snake. Racing enthusiasts will enjoy the fast-paced action of Ladbrokes Friday Night Lights, featuring races every 30 minutes and exciting series including the Ladbrokes 55 Second Challenge, the Orbit Logistics Summer Sprint Series, and The Valley Summer Middle Distance Series. The Sebel Melbourne Moonee Ponds offers the perfect accommodation option for those wanting to experience multiple nights of this summer spectacular.
Key Race Dates:
- January 24: Clamms Seafood Australia Stakes Night
- January 31: Friday Night Lights
- February 7: Lunar New Year Night
- February 14: Valentine’s Day Racing
- February 21: Friday Night Lights
- February 28: Friday Night Lights
- March 7: Festival Finale Night
Australian International Airshow – February 28 to March 2, 2025

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The Australian International Airshow returns to Avalon Airport, bringing together the world’s most impressive aircraft displays and cutting-edge aerospace technologies. This spectacular event combines breathtaking aerial displays with a comprehensive showcase of military and civilian aircraft, making it one of the largest airshows in the Southern Hemisphere.
Visitors can experience the thrill of aerial demonstrations, explore static aircraft displays, and engage with interactive aerospace exhibitions. The event attracts aviation enthusiasts from around the globe, and The Sebel Melbourne Moonee Ponds provides comfortable accommodation with easy access to Avalon Airport via the Tullamarine Freeway.
Melbourne Fashion Festival – February 22 to March 8, 2025

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The Melbourne Fashion Festival stands as Australia’s largest fashion event, bringing together the best in local and international design. The festival’s runway shows, exhibitions, and industry events celebrate style, creativity, and innovation in the fashion industry. Fashion enthusiasts can experience premium runway shows, participate in beauty workshops, and engage with industry leaders.
Beyond the catwalk, the festival offers a comprehensive program of business events, seminars, and cultural programs that explore the intersection of fashion with art, technology, and sustainability. The festival’s central location makes The Sebel Melbourne Moonee Ponds an ideal accommodation choice for fashion lovers wanting to experience every moment.
AFL 2025 Season – March 6 to September 2025

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The 2025 Toyota AFL Premiership Season kicks off with an exciting Opening Round starting Thursday, March 6. The season begins in the northern states, with the Brisbane Lions taking on the Geelong Cats at The Gabba, followed by the Sydney Swans facing Hawthorn at the SCG on Friday, March 7. This marks the beginning of another thrilling season of Australian Rules Football.
Key matches throughout the season include the traditional Round 1 blockbuster between Richmond and Carlton at the MCG, the iconic Anzac Day clash, and the highly anticipated Dreamtime at the ‘G match between Essendon and Richmond in Round 11 (Friday, May 23, 2025). The Sebel Melbourne Moonee Ponds offers the perfect accommodation for interstate visitors attending these marquee games.
Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix – March 13 to 16, 2025

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The roar of Formula 1 returns to Albert Park, bringing high-speed excitement and world-class racing to Melbourne. This spectacular event combines elite motorsport with entertainment, making it a must-attend for racing fans and thrill-seekers alike. The track comes alive with practice sessions, qualifying rounds, and the main race, creating an electric atmosphere throughout the weekend.
Beyond the racing action, the Grand Prix offers a festival atmosphere with live music, entertainment zones, and exclusive hospitality options. The event showcases Melbourne’s ability to host world-class sporting events while providing an unforgettable experience for visitors.
Melbourne Food & Wine Festival – March 21 to 30, 2025

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Celebrating Victoria’s world-class food and wine scene, this festival transforms Melbourne into a gastronomic paradise. From long lunches to wine masterclasses, the festival showcases the best of local produce, innovative cooking, and exceptional wines. Visitors can indulge in signature events like the World’s Longest Lunch and the River Graze along the Yarra.
The festival also features intimate chef dinners, cooking demonstrations, and food tours that highlight Melbourne’s diverse culinary landscape. Food enthusiasts will appreciate The Sebel Melbourne Moonee Ponds’ proximity to some of the city’s best restaurants and markets.
Melbourne International Comedy Festival – March 26 to April 20, 2025

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As the largest cultural event in Australia, the Melbourne International Comedy Festival brings laughter and entertainment to every corner of the city. Thousands of shows featuring local and international comedians transform Melbourne into the comedy capital of the world. From established stars to emerging talent, the festival offers something for every sense of humour.
The festival’s program includes stand-up comedy, sketch shows, cabaret, and family-friendly performances across various venues. The festival’s central locations are easily accessible from The Sebel Melbourne Moonee Ponds, making it convenient for comedy fans to enjoy multiple shows throughout the festival.
RISING Melbourne – June 4 to 15, 2025

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RISING Festival illuminates Melbourne’s winter nights with a spectacular program of art, music, performance, and food. This ambitious festival commissions new works and creates unique experiences that challenge and inspire audiences. The festival transforms unexpected spaces across the city into immersive art installations and performance venues.
Visitors can explore large-scale public art, experience boundary-pushing performances, and enjoy specially curated food experiences. The festival’s various locations are easily accessible from The Sebel Melbourne Moonee Ponds, making it the perfect base for experiencing Melbourne’s winter arts festival.
Spring Racing Carnival – October 11 to November 8, 2025

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The Spring Racing Carnival represents the pinnacle of Australian horse racing, featuring several prestigious events. The carnival begins with the Moir Stakes at The Valley on September 6, building up to the legendary W.S. Cox Plate Weekend (October 22-26) and culminating in the race that stops the nation – the Melbourne Cup Carnival (November 4-11).
These events combine world-class racing with fashion, entertainment, and social celebrations. The Sebel Melbourne Moonee Ponds offers premium accommodation just minutes from Moonee Valley Racing Club and provides easy access to Flemington Racecourse, making it the ideal choice for racing enthusiasts.
Where to Stay in Melbourne
The Sebel Melbourne Moonee Ponds stands as the perfect accommodation choice for experiencing Melbourne’s major events in 2025. Our luxury apartments offer:
- Strategic location with excellent transport connections
- Sophisticated and comfortable accommodation options
- Walking distance to local dining and entertainment
- Secure parking facilities
- Modern amenities for a relaxing stay
Plan Your Melbourne Major Event Visit
To make the most of Melbourne’s major events in 2025:
- Book your accommodation well in advance
- Consider our special event packages
- Use Melbourne’s efficient public transport system
- Explore local attractions between events
- Take advantage of our concierge service for event information
Don’t miss the excitement of Melbourne’s major events in 2025. Book your stay at The Sebel Melbourne Moonee Ponds today and position yourself perfectly for all the action