There is no end to the creativity of Melbournians. Trust us to find an unusual premise for a festival or party – any reason is good enough if it means we can dine, drink, and dance. Find below festivals celebrating tiny dogs, onesies, winter solstice and more.
A Tiny Dog Festival
520 High St, Thornbury
Be still, my heart, for there will be food trucks and tiny puppers together at Welcome to Thornbury this Saturday the 30th of June.
Prizes are up for grabs for the tiniest tiny dog, best dressed tiny dog, and fastest tiny dog. Let me flesh (or fluff) that out for you: there will be pocket-sized pooches parading in a fashion show, and waddling their diminutive legs in a sprint. Have you melted yet?
Dogs of all sizes are welcome (no discrimination here) to support their miniature mates. There’ll also be food trucks serving up quality chow for both humans and canines.
Costing you only a gold coin for entry, there is actually no reason to not go. Make sure to catch this fantastic night for hounds and humans alike from 12pm onwards.
[More Info + Gallery] | [Contact Venue] | [To Book For Private Functions]
Freedom Time
30 Charles St, Coburg
Freedom Time is transforming Coburg Velodrome into an eclectic boogie fest, featuring artists from home, and reaching as far as Europe and the U.S this Saturday the 30th of June.
They’ve tossed out the traditional main stage setup, opting instead for 3 “music machines” embodying their own vibe.
There’s also a range of carefully selected food and bev to help you stay replenished as you dance well after the sun is gone.
Freedom Time is here for one night only so you better get onto tickets pronto!
[More Info + Gallery] | [Contact Venue]
Firelight Festival Opening Weekend
131-141 Harbour Esplanade, Docklands
The Firelight Festival isn’t just a month-long festival about staying warm in winter, It draws on age-old traditions of celebrating the winter solstice, by shooing off bad spirits and inviting in good fortune for the year.
If this doesn’t sound like “your thing”, perhaps that’s the perfect reason to go. It’s not often you’ll be able to witness the ritual burning of a colossal wooden sculpture accompanied by choreographed pyrotechnics. And no, burning your spatula on the stove at home does not compare in the slightest.
The fire demonstrations will happen alongside music ranging from jazz to mariachi, and accompanied by an equally diverse menu, featuring paella, mulled wine, and the trusty old hot chocolate to keep you warm. Taking over the whole of Docklands, starting from Friday 29th June to the 1st of July, this month-long fest is how you can celebrate winter without feeling bitter about the dreary cold.
[More Info + Gallery] | [Contact Venue]
Melbourne Onesie Party
36 Phoenix St, Brunswick
When the stress of adulting hits hard, you need a remedy. This onesie party is The Remedy.
It’s just like being a kid again – you wear unstylish yet somewhat cute clothes (your onesie), hang out with your mates, and let loose to the music. And honestly, you can let loose, because onesies are sooo comfortable. If you don’t have a onesie, go get yourself one or find an equally quirky outfit – just make sure you go. The little kid in you needs it.
Taking place at Rubix Warehouse in Brunswick, this pretty cool onesie party is in an equally cool venue. The party takes place on Saturday the 30th of June at 9pm and runs well into the early hours of Sunday morning.
[More Info + Gallery] | [Contact Venue]
Boutique Winter Marketplace
Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne
The Queen Victoria Market is shining the spotlight on craft goods this winter. Running for the first time, you’ll find local, handmade, and unique items on offer every weekend until July 29.
Keep an eye out for local Australian produce, handmade clothing, and locally designed jewellery, ceramics, and artwork. Plus winter-themed goodies to keep you warm and your house looking fresh.
[More Info + Gallery] | [Contact Venue]
By Yogita Maruti