Melbourne is widely regarded as Australia’s cultural capital and it’s often hard to keep track of everything happening in Australia’s second most populated city. Aside from the festivals and events happening in the Summer, there’s the sumptuous international cuisine on offer, the picturesque bike ride routes (a great way to see the city), internationally acclaimed theatre and opera, as well as fantastic comedy going on. It’s often easy to forget that you’re in Australia, and not a major European city. Melbourne, throughout the year, is host to a range of international festivals. Here are our top picks and what not to miss in Melbourne.
Melbourne Light Painting by Lady Fran W
Melbourne International Comedy Festival
I was lucky enough to catch some of the shows at the International Comedy Festival this year, which attracts tourists from Australia and overseas, to enjoy some of the world’s best comedians whilst still making the most of Melbourne’s Autumn weather. The great thing about the Melbourne Comedy Festival is that there are a great deal of free shows going on in well known areas such as Flinders Street, as well as recurring comedic shows such as the Great Debate (Paul Foot certainly didn’t disappoint in this years) and The Gala – both broadcast on television. The Melbourne International Comedy Festival should definitely be top of your list, if you are visiting Melbourne in Autumn.
Melbourne Food and Wine Festival
There couldn’t be a better place for foodies and wine lovers to gather than in Melbourne – one of the best places for international cuisine. The festival takes place for two weeks in March and attracts wine and food lovers from Australia and overseas. One of the highlights include the ‘World’s longest lunch’ where the state hosts around 5000 people for lunch over different parts of the city. The Yarra river offers a perfect dining and wine consumption environment, and visitors can make the most of Melbourne´s perfect Autumnal weather.
The Royal Melbourne Show
A huge agricultural fair, held in the Royal Showgrounds in Flemington every September. The fair has lots on offer for all ages from competitions, rides and sample bags, sideshow alley and many food displays. It offers a unique way to enjoy the many facets of Victorian life and immerse into country life. The evening program features a spectacular firework display, action displays and musical events.
About the Author: Language Connect – as a professional translation service company in Melbourne we support and promote cultural events. We provide language services in over 150 dialects covering: localization, voice overs, interpreting and translation services in Australia.