Everyone can enjoy the outdoors in Melbourne this summer
Visitors to Melbourne this summer will be spoiled for choice with a mind-boggling array of low cost and free outdoor events and activities to keep the whole family entertained.
One place that is certain to create a buzz is Greenhouse by Joost, an intriguing new ‘pop up’ venue that will be operating in Federation Square from October until the end of January 2009. Constructed entirely from recycled or recyclable material, Greenhouse will operate as a café / gallery / education centre and public space by day and a chic CBD social spot at night, dishing up degustation fare created by Bistro Vue’s Shannon Bennett, and snazzy beverages courtesy of Seamstress.
Another popular summer hotspot is the Suzuki Night Market, which will reopen on Wednesday nights at the Queen Victoria Market from late November. With its intoxicating Chiang Mai-meets-outdoor music festival vibe and great party atmosphere (including live music on two stages), the night market attracts both locals and tourists alike. Rummage through the outstanding mix of local craft, clothing, general ‘ephemera’ or enjoy a great meal and drinks alfresco with friends.
Also capitalising on the warmer weather is Royal Botanic Gardens which becomes a vibrant cultural hub during summertime, its packed program includes the popular Moonlight Cinema, the monthly Gardens Market and ever popular Wind in the Willows theatre performances.
For animal lovers there’s lots of fun to be had, with the Melbourne Zoo hosting ‘Zoo Twilights’ live music concerts and Roar and Snore, special camping sleep-over nights and Rhythm of Africa music program returning to Werribee Open Range park at Werribee.
Also returning in January is Summer Fun in the City, the City of Melbourne’s extensive outdoor program of free events, entertainment and interactive activities taking place across Melbourne’s parks, gardens, city spaces, which includes live music concerts, sailing, sand sculpture, tango lessons, trapeze workshops and African drumming.
For further information: go to www.visitvictoria.com