The Big Design Market returns to the Royal Exhibition Building with its ‘Almost Winter’ edition from May 22-24. As the temperature dips, this three-day showcase leans into all things creative, comforting and curated.
More than 250 independent designers are setting up shop under the heritage dome selling everything from ceramics and jewellery to fashion, homewares and lifestyle products. There are more than 55 new brands joining returning favourites, each championing ethical production, quality craftsmanship and original design.
Some highlights include newcomers Mariella McKinley Glass, who specialises in homewares made from hand-blown glass; e’serdiv with a range of 100 per cent vegan premium women’s footwear made from an apple by-product; UKOO’s clean body care designed for the whole family; beautiful handmade table linen from Everyday Normall; and Saddler and Co with handcrafted saddles and leather goods.
This year, Melbourne-based artist Elaine Li of Xue Fei Art will transform the space with a large-scale installation of her artwork ‘Moon Dip’, bringing a sense of wonder to the venue. There’s also a dedicated kids’ creative zone, making it a fun day out for families.
Come hungry – there’s an indulgent spread from more than 75 artisanal food and drink vendors offering gourmet bites, sweet treats and small-batch spirits. Think bánh mì from Ca Com, Portuguese tarts from Casa Nata, gnocchi and pasta from Ugo Burrata Bar, pastries from Cobb Lane and all-natural ice cream...
Can you believe it's already May?! There's only one month left of autumn before winter's chill (and puffer jacket season) arrives, so consider this your sign to get out and about this month.
There is plenty for foodies to enjoy, starting with the Good Food and Wine Show – one of the most beloved (and delicious!) events on Melbourne's calendar. This year's line-up includes meet and greets with chefs, cooking masterclasses, live demonstrations and truckloads of vino and cheese. Sweet tooths won't want to miss the Rocky Road Festival (featuring 31 limited-edition flavours), while beer lovers can look forward to Pint of Origin, which will turn the city into a brew-tiful playground for ten days.
Dreaming of a trip to the French Alps? The next best thing is Fondue Chalet. Returning to Fed Square, it's the perfect opportunity to gather your mates, sip mulled wine and feast on crusty bread dipped in oozey cheese – yum!
The Melbourne Writers Festival will celebrate its 40th anniversary with a program of speakers including former NZ prime minister, Jacinda Ardern; international bestselling author, R.F Kuang (Yellowface); and journalist and human rights advocate, Antoniette Latouff. Melbourne Design Week is also on, with more than 400 events, exhibitions, talks and workshops taking place across the city's most iconic cultural spaces.
Plus, don't miss the Big Design Market's 'Almost Winter' edition, the opening of Broadway smash-hit Waitress the Musical or Eonarium Enlightenment – an immersive new sound and light show at the Immigration Museum that is set to Vivaldi’s Four Seasons’ violin concertos.
When in doubt, you can always rely on our catch-all lists of Melbourne's best bars, restaurants, museums, parks and galleries, or consult our bucket list of things to do in Melbourne before you die.
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