Royal Exhibition Building & Carlton Gardens

Feeling the chill? The Big Design Market returns to Melbourne to warm you right up with a special 'Almost Winter' edition. From May 23-25, the Royal Exhibition Building is set to be transformed into a shopper's haven for three big days. You'll be able to peruse more than 250 stallholders from Australia and New Zealand, selling things like ethically made ceramics, jewellery, homewares, clothing, lifestyle products, stationery, limited-edition art prints, pet wares and so much more.  Shopping can be hungry work, so be sure to fuel up with treats from some of the country's best culinary connoisseurs, including the likes of Wonder Pies, Ca Com Bánh Mì Bar, Casa Nata, Ugo Burrata Bar, 400 Gradi and Billy Van Creamery. On the beverage front, Rumble Coffee will be joining for the first time with their tasty brews, while Pizzini Wines, Cheeky Rascal Cider, Subtle Tea, Ester Spirits and more will be on hand to whip up something a tad stronger.  This market's guest artist is Irina Nazarova, who will create a magical space with her whimsical botanical art that blends the complexity of Australian flora with the simplicity and tenderness of European flowers. Her work will hang in the great dome of the Royal Exhibition Building. Don't miss the fashion runway at 12pm on Saturday, May 24 (starring the latest collections from the fashion designers in attendance); and if you’ve got kids in tow, a designated entertainment zone with creative activities is sure to keep them busy. The show bags...

Calling all fromage freaks and pinot lovers: the team behind beloved cheese festival Mould and booze festival Pinot Palooza has revealed that an epic fusion of the two events will be returning to Melbourne in 2025. Following the success of last year’s hybrid celebration, events powerhouse Revel will be uniting wine and cheese lovers once more with an unmatched foodie tour that offers double the indulgence. For anyone who's ever paired a creamy camembert with quality pinot, this makes total sense! The program will offer world-class Australian artisan cheeses to sample – from the creamiest to the stinkiest (and always the tastiest, of course) – along with some of the finest pinot noir in the land.  New head of Revel Jessica Audas said, “More than just a tasting experience, this event is about discovering the magic of perfect pairings—where the right cheese and pinot can elevate each other in unexpected and unforgettable ways.” An excellent grape-stained handful of award-winning wineries will be in attendance, such as Innocent Bystander, Vinteloper and Yering Station, and more. Meanwhile, on the dairy front, the lauded Milawa Cheese and Bruny Island will be generously offering some of their best products for tastings.  Whether you prefer oozy camembert or nutty gruyères, we can guarantee there'll be something you'll want to add to your next cheese board.  Tickets cost $59 plus booking fees and include festival entry, all cheese and pinot tastings (no tokens needed!), a wine...