What’s on: The best events happening in Melbourne this September
image via @secondlifemarkets/instagram
WORDS BY FASHION JOURNAL
From fashion pop-ups to writers’ festivals.
The beginning of September is notorious for showing us the best of spring and taking it away at a moment’s notice. It’s in these weeks you’re just as likely to be rugged up in a cosy knit as you are to be spread out in the sun in a T-shirt, smelling the flowers. There’s really no telling. Our advice? Soak up whatever sun you can get and always pack an umbrella.
Stay updated on the latest fashion and design events at FJ’s Events section.
Looking ahead, there’s plenty on the forecast. We’re lucky enough to have not one, but two Writers’ Festivals taking place, plus a number of fashion pop-ups, exhibitions and vintage markets. Below, find our roundup of the best happening in and around Melbourne this month.
IMBIBE Melbourne Residency
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When: September 3 to 6
Beauty and wellness label IMBIBE will take over Hutton House in Collingwood for an intimate four-day residency. Guests can meet founder, Felicity Evans, explore the IMBIBE range and experience and sample the brand in person. Collagen coffee, probiotic drinks, collagen-infused gummies and more will be available throughout the residency.
Find more here.
Blak and Bright Writers Festival 2026
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When: September 3 to 6
Australia’s largest and only gathering of First Nations writers and storytellers will return this September for Blak and Bright Writers’ Festival. This year’s event will feature the voices of some of the country’s most influential First Nations commentators shaping conversations on culture, identity, storytelling and social issues, including Evelyn Araluen, Melissa Lucashenko and Tony Armstrong.
Find more here.
Monroe the Label Melbourne Pop Up
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When: September 4 to 6
Monroe the Label is hosting its first solo Melbourne pop-up in Fitzroy. Running for three days, you’ll have the chance to shop and try on the label’s full range, including one-off sample pieces, pop-up exclusives and a first look at its upcoming spring collection.
Find more here.
Balikbayan Exhibition
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When: September 4 to 6
Running from September 4 to 6, Balikbayan is an exhibition that celebrates Filipino art, culture and community in Australia. The opening night will feature live music and refreshments, creating an evening of connection, celebration and cultural appreciation.
Find more here.
Second Life Markets Melbourne Archive
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When: September 5
Second Life Markets is bringing Melbourne’s best archival sellers under one roof on September 5. You’ll find plenty of vintage pieces and rare finds to browse, alongside live music and food available to purchase.
Find more here.
Stay Soft Studio Night Market
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When: September 12
Stay Soft Studio is back for another night market on September 12. Running from 2pm to 9pm, you can stroll around Collingwood Yards, perusing local designers, vintage clothing, art, accessories and more, with food vendors and music on-site.
Find more here.
Emerging Writers’ Festival
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When: September 10 to 18
Serving as a platform for nurturing and platforming budding writers, the Emerging Writers’ Festival is back on September 10. Experience a week of creativity, innovation, and diverse voices from across Australia through a range of events.
Find more here.
Erede and Gorgeous Nothings Oigall Projects Pop Up
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When: September 18 to 19
Fine jewellery label Erede and perfume house and objects studio Gorgeous Nothings are taking residence at Oigall Projects in Fitzroy. On September 19, you can drop in for complimentary coffee and pastries from Morning Market, browse and take home fragrance samples. You’ll also have the chance to preview the first chapter of Gorgeous Nothings’ Lending Library, featuring books from the Erede founders Talia Shuvalov and Jeramie Hot’s own personal collection.
Find more here.
Curated By Charbel Archive Pop Up Store
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When: September 19 to 20
Curated By Charbel is hosting an archive designer pop-up in Melbourne. Running for two days, the pop-up features archival and hard-to-find pieces from brands like Needles, Gucci, Balenciaga and many more.
Find more here.
Syrian Feast In Melbourne
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When: September 19
Sydney-based chef Racha’s Syrian Kitchen is heading down to Melbourne and taking over Fenton Farmhouse Café for a night of authentic Syrian home cooking. Expect a four-course dinner, with early bird tickets available for $85.
Find more here.
Melbourne Fringe Festival
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When: September 19
Running from September 29 to October 18, Melbourne Fringe is the city’s largest celebration of independent arts. It takes place throughout Melbourne, with over 450+ events on the calendar, including drag shows, comedy sets, art exhibitions and more.
Find more here.
To explore more events in Melbourne, head here.