Fun Things to Do in Melbourne Over the Easter Holidays

Top Easter Events and Activities in Melbourne 2026

1. The Great Easter Egg Hunt – Luna Park Melbourne

• Location: Luna Park, St Kilda, Melbourne
• Opening hours: Morning – early afternoon during Easter events
• Event dates: Around the Easter weekend (3–6 April 2026)
• Highlights: Easter egg hunts, themed games, Easter Bunny meet-and-greet

Few places capture the festive spirit quite like Luna Park during Easter. The Great Easter Egg Hunt turns Melbourne’s iconic seaside amusement park into a colourful playground filled with hidden chocolate eggs, cheerful decorations, and carnival excitement.

2. Watch a Show at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival

• Location: Various venues across Melbourne
• Event dates: From 25 March to 19 April
• Highlights: International comedians, stand-up shows, comedy galas

During Easter, Melbourne becomes the comedy capital of the world. The Melbourne International Comedy Festival fills theatres, bars, and pop-up venues with laughter every night. Big-name comedians share the stage with rising talents, creating an electric atmosphere across the city.

3. Explore Easter Food Stalls at an Easter Market

• Location: Markets across Melbourne 
• Opening hours: Typically morning to late afternoon
• Event dates: Easter weekend
• Highlights: Hot cross buns, artisan chocolates, street food, handmade gifts

Melbourne’s markets feel extra festive during Easter. Food stalls overflow with freshly baked hot cross buns, handmade chocolates, and seasonal treats, while local vendors showcase crafts and gourmet products.

4. Attend an Easter Service at St Paul's Cathedral

• Location: 200 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000
• Opening hours: Services typically morning and evening
• Event dates: 3rd and 5th April 2026
• Highlights: Choir performances, traditional liturgy, historic architecture

For a more reflective moment during the Easter weekend, step inside St Paul’s Cathedral. The grand Gothic Revival building hosts special Good Friday and Easter Sunday services accompanied by beautiful choir music. Even outside service times, the cathedral’s stained-glass windows and peaceful interior

5. Watch Street Performances at Federation Square

• Location: Federation Square, Melbourne CBD
• Opening hours: Late morning until evening
• Event dates: Various performances across the Easter weekend
• Highlights: Live music, pop-up shows, cultural events



Federation Square often transforms into a lively stage during holiday weekends. Musicians, street performers, and pop-up events create a buzzing atmosphere right in the heart of the city. Grab a coffee, find a seat on the open steps, and enjoy the spontaneous entertainment. It’s also the perfect spot to begin exploring nearby galleries, laneways, and riverside walks

6. Walk Along the Riverside at Southbank Promenade

• Location: Along the Yarra River, Southbank
• Opening hours: Open all day
• Highlights: River views, restaurants, street entertainment

 Southbank Promenade is where Melbourne’s energy meets beautiful river views. The wide riverside walkway is lined with restaurants, cafés, and lively bars, creating a vibrant atmosphere day and night. During Easter, the area feels even more festive as people gather to dine outdoors and enjoy street performances. Evening walks here are especially magical when city lights reflect on the river.

Why Melbourne Is a Great Place to Spend Easter

• Festivals and events everywhere: The city hosts seasonal highlights like the Melbourne International Comedy Festival alongside Easter markets, live entertainment, and family-friendly events across Melbourne.
• Mild autumn weather: April brings comfortable temperatures and colourful autumn scenery, perfect for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and exploring local neighbourhoods.
• Amazing food scene: Melbourne is famous for its diverse cafés, restaurants, and bakeries, offering everything from hot cross buns to world-class international cuisine.
• Great for day trips: From scenic coastal drives along the Great Ocean Road to winery visits in the Yarra Valley, there are many easy escapes from the city.

Best Easter Markets in Melbourne

1. Queen Victoria Market

• Location: Queen St, Melbourne VIC 3000
• Opening Hours: Tue, Thu, Fri: 6:00am – 3:00pm | Sat: 6:00am – 4:00pm | Sun: 9:00am – 4:00pm

One of the largest open-air markets in the Southern Hemisphere, Queen Victoria Market is a Melbourne icon. Visitors can explore hundreds of stalls selling fresh produce, street food, souvenirs, clothing, and local artisan goods while enjoying the lively multicultural atmosphere.

2. South Melbourne Market

• Location: 322-326 Coventry St, South Melbourne VIC 3205
• Opening Hours: Wed: 8:00am – 4:00pm | Fri: 8:00am – 5:00pm | Sat–Sun: 8:00am – 4:00pm

South Melbourne Market is famous for its vibrant food scene and long-standing local traders. With dozens of stalls selling gourmet produce, fresh seafood, pastries, and specialty foods, it’s a favourite weekend destination for food lovers and travellers exploring Melbourne.

3. Rose St. Artists' Market

• Location: 60 Rose St, Fitzroy VIC 3065
• Opening Hours: Sat–Sun: 10:00am – 4:00pm

Located in the creative suburb of Fitzroy, the Rose St. Artists’ Market showcases handmade products from more than 100 local artists and designers. Visitors can browse unique artworks, jewellery, fashion, and crafts while meeting the creators behind each piece.

4. Grazeland Melbourne

• Location: 20 Booker St, Spotswood VIC 3015
• Opening Hours: Fri: 5:00pm – 10:00pm | Sat: 12:00pm – 10:00pm | Sun: 12:00pm – 9:00pm



Grazeland is a large outdoor food market and dining precinct inspired by global street-food markets. Visitors can enjoy dozens of food vendors offering dishes from around the world, along with live music, bars, and waterfront views of the Melbourne skyline.

5. Preston Market

• Location: 30A The Centreway, Preston VIC 3072
• Opening Hours: Wed–Sun: 8:00am – 3:00pm



Preston Market is known for its diverse multicultural food scene reflecting Melbourne’s global community. Here you’ll find fresh produce, international street food, specialty groceries, and deli stalls selling flavours from Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.

6. St Kilda Esplanade Market

• Location: The Esplanade, St Kilda VIC 3182
• Opening Hours: Sun: 10:00am – 4:00pm



Set along the beachfront promenade, the St Kilda Esplanade Market offers a relaxed seaside shopping experience. The market features dozens of stalls selling handmade jewellery, art, clothing, and crafts created by local artists, all with beautiful ocean views.

Travel Tips for the Easter Long Weekend

Planning ahead can help you make the most of the busy Easter long weekend while exploring Melbourne’s events, attractions, and popular neighbourhoods.

• 
  Book accommodation early: Easter is a peak travel period, and many hotels and hostels fill up quickly across Melbourne.
• Check public holiday opening hours: Many shops and businesses close on Good Friday, although restaurants and attractions may remain open.
• Use public transport: Melbourne’s tram network is convenient, and the Free Tram Zone in the CBD makes it easy to explore central attractions.
• Plan popular attractions in advance: Festivals, shows, and markets can get crowded, so booking tickets or arriving early helps avoid long queues.

Where to Stay in Melbourne During Easter Holidays

Melbourne offers plenty of exciting things to do during the Easter long weekend, from lively markets and comedy shows to outdoor activities and seasonal events. With so many festivals and attractions happening across the city, it’s a popular time for both locals and visitors to explore. Because Easter is a busy travel period, it’s a good idea to book your accommodation early to secure a convenient and comfortable place to stay.

For travellers looking for a budget-friendly and social stay, Pint on Punt is a great option for you. Located near St Kilda, it offers easy access to beaches, nightlife, and tram routes connecting directly to Melbourne’s CBD, making it a perfect base for exploring the city during Easter.