Nine free Australia Day activities in Melbourne
LOOKING for something to do on Australia Day that won’t break the bank? Here are nine free, family friendly activities in Melbourne.
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LOOKING for something to keep the whole family busy on Australia Day, that won’t break the bank? Melbourne has a wide variety of free activities and events that will get you out of the house and feeling patriotic.
Official flag raising ceremony outside Melbourne Town Hall at 10.30am
This ceremony marks the beginning of Victoria’s official Australia Day celebrations.
Once the flag is raised, attendees are invited to take part in the Australia Day affirmation and singing the national anthem.
Australia Day Parade, Swanston Street at 11am
Thousands of people are expected to line the streets as the vibrant and colourful procession celebrating Victoria’s vast cultural heritage takes place on Swanston Street.
It is the only parade held on Australia Day morning across the nation’s capital cities.
RACV Australia Day Festival, Kings Domain at 11am — 4pm
This festival continues the theme of Victoria’s rich diversity, with free family-focused activities and displays from a broad range of community groups.
There will be a free childrens’ concert, vintage cars on show and a multicultural-themed Food Truck Park showing off a range of international cuisines.
Don’t forget to look to the sky at 12.30pm as the Royal Australian Air Force Roulettes put on a show across the Melbourne city skyline.
National Gallery of Victoria Kids Summer Festival
Let the kids get crafty with a series of free workshops in the NGV Garden including a dachshund dog parade and a model dog park for children to display their handcrafted doggie creations.
Pirate Treasure Hunt at Harbour Town, 11am — 6pm
Take the kids hunting for treasure at Harbour Town on Australia Day. Collect your free pirate bag and treasure map at the pirate booth next to KFC.
Make sure to explore the new summer pirate playground while you’re there too.
U-Nite Fan Day at Docklands, noon-4pm
Soccer lovers are invited to a free fan clinic before Melbourne Victory play Sydney FC at Etihad Stadium. There will be face painting, an inflatable pitch, a target zone and a DJ.
Fireworks at Docklands, 6pm — 10.30pm
With roaming artists, entertainment and a sizzling Food Truck Festival that celebrates the great Australian BBQ, Docklands is the perfect family friendly spot to end Australia Day.
Don’t forget to stick around for a spectacular fireworks show launched from the top of Etihad Stadium to a soundtrack of Aussie favourites.
Melbourne Town Hall Tours
Free tours of Melbourne’s historic Town Hall give visitors the chance to learn about the architectural, social and political significance of this impressive 19th century building.
Government House open to the public
Government House will be open to the public as part of Australia Day celebrations.
Visitors are invited to tour the historical building or bring a picnic and enjoy live music on the West Lawn and an array of other childrens’ activities.
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