Your guide to the best events across Melbourne this March
photography by Scotty So
WORDS BY FASHION JOURNAL
Festivals, vintage markets and gallery exhibitions.
And just like that, summer is over and autumn is officially in full force. Though it’s not all sad news – the leaves are turning, the days are warm without being oppressively hot, and daylight savings is still in operation.
Looking ahead, it also marks a fun lineup of events across Melbourne. From grand, large-scale events like the Grand Prix and Comedy Festival, to vintage markets and art exhibitions, it’s the perfect season for leisurely weekends wandering the city. Find some of our favourite events below.
Stay updated on the latest fashion and design events at FJ’s Events section.
Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix
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When: March 5 to 8.
Calling all race heads. Running for four days, the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix is taking over Melbourne. Attend practices, qualifying races and other events at the Albert Park Grand Prix™ circuit.
For more details, head here.
Pitch Music and Arts Festival
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When: March 6 to 10.
Held at the foothills of the Grampian Plains, Pitch Music and Arts Festival is four jam-packed days dedicated to dance music, contemporary art and creative expression. Get in quick, there’s a limited numbers of tickets still available.
For more details, head here.
Margo’s Pleasure Picnic: ‘Womanhood’
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When: March 8.
Melbourne-based pleasure brand Margo’s is hosting a special edition version of its Pleasure Picnic series for International Women’s Day. Taking place at Soft Focus House in Fitzroy, the event will centre on lived-experiences, where guests will be invited to share personal turning points and revelations.
For more details, head here.
Scotty So, Oh this archival Dior hat? at Mars Gallery
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When: Ends March 14
Visit Mars Gallery in Windsor and see Scotty So’s latest series, Oh This Archival Dior Hat? in the flesh. Reinterpreting the language of archival Dior hats, the first series features photographs of queer women wearing hats in studio settings, while the part two captures the artist in drag, reenacting imagined scenes inspired by the Melbourne Cup.
For more details, head here.
Toorak Cellars BBQ Summer Series
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When: February 1 to March 15
Toorak Cellars’ BBQ Summer Series is returning with a rotating lineup of top local chefs. Across seven Sundays, expect relaxed, flame-kissed fare from names like Audrey Shaw (Carnation Canteen), Danny Natoli (Rina’s) and Jordan Clay (Pipi’s Kiosk) and more, alongside excellent wine and relaxed neighbourhood atmosphere.
For more details, head here.
Stay Soft Studio Market
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When: March 21
Stay Soft Studio is hosting the last market of the summer season. Held at Collingwood Yards from 2pm to 9pm, it will have pre-loved clothing and local brands on offer, as well as food and live music.
For more details, head here.
Vintage Clothing and Collectables Sale
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When: March 21 to 22
The National Trust’s Vintage Clothing and Collectables Sale returns in March with a two-day celebration of sustainability and circularity. Abbotsford Convent’s Magdalen Laundry will be transformed into a curated marketplace featuring vintage designer clothing, accessories, homewares and more.
For more details, head here.
Melbourne International Comedy Festival
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When: March 25 to April 19
The Melbourne International Comedy Festival is returning for another year. Celebrating its 40th anniversary, this milestone lineup is set to feature almost 800 shows spread out at venues across the city. Attend ensemble shows, including Opening Night Comedy Allstars Supershow and The Great Debate, or head to a solo set from comedians including Hannah Gadsby, Jenny Tian, Josh Thomas and Cath Ebbs (and plenty more).
For more details, head here.
Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show
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When: March 25 to March 29
The Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show is returning this March, under the theme, ‘Kaleidoscope’. Set against the Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens, the five-day event will feature world-class floral artistry alongside a variety of lifestyle and garden installations.
For more details, head here.
Westwood x Kawakubo Exhibition and NGV Friday Nights
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When: Every Friday until April 17
From December 7, the highly anticipated Westwood x Kawakubo exhibition will bring together global fashion icons Vivienne Westwood and Rei Kawakubo of Comme des Garçons. Think two women, one exhibition and a whole lot of rule-breaking. The NGV will open its doors late every Friday night, allowing visitors to explore the exhibition after hours. In addition to exhibition access, each Friday night the NGV will transform into a stage for some of Australia’s most exciting names, including Breaking and Entering, Adriana, DJ Manchild, Yo! Mafia, Small Fry, Claire Knight, Tanzer, Yeo and Danny Issues.
For more details, head here.
To explore more events on in Melbourne, head here.