Unmissable Events in Melbourne in 2017

Unmissable Events in Melbourne in 2017

Drawing closer to the end of every year is a bittersweet affair. You know you'll soon be saying goodbye to a year that may have been good or bad, but is still part of you. And you start making dreams for the year to come. Although of course arbitrary in the calendar-year sense, most of us consider the move to a year to have a deep symbolism – rebirth, new opportunities, a new life. Or even an improvement on our life as it was.

But, regardless of how you feel about 2016, there are many reasons to look forward to 2017. And some of them come in the form of events we can't wait to attend. Read on for some of the best events in Melbourne set to take place in 2017!

Cirque du Soleil
20 January – 30 March @ Flemington Racecourse

The Canadian circus troupe that is the largest theatrical producer in the world – and, to many, the best, will be putting on their Kooza show for Aussie audiences for a little over three months. Their blend of acrobatics, dance, music and theatre will, as usual, be accompanied by colourful costumes, state-of-the-art lightning and the impeccable performances we've come to expect of them. The Kooza show promises to be a return to circus origins, and features acts such as the Wheel of Death, Skeleton Dance and Hoops Manipulation.

The Aussie Millions

11 – 30 January @ Crown Casino

This glamorous annual event sees over 2,000 of the best and brightest in the brainy world of poker compete for a prize pool of $7.32 million in total. Over its three weeks, the Aussie Millions Poker Championship will provide thrills not only for poker players but also for spectators, with side events and entertainment to suit all tastes. Even if you're not a poker player, you may want to play a game or two for the fun of it, or just experience the glitz and glamour of a truly world-class casino tournament.

Moonlight Cinema

8 December 2016 – 2 April 2017 @ Royal Botanic Gardens

While (most of) the rest of the world can continue to moan about the cold weather, down under, it's time for some open-air cinema excitement. With prices ranging from $14.50 to $35, Australia's favourite outdoor cinema will once again combine the silver screen with the beautiful scenery of the Royal Botanic Gardens. It is also a splendid opportunity to visit the gardens themselves, with their 10,000 individual species spread over 38 hectares, so we recommend getting there early in the day. Grab your picnic blankets, make a sandwich or two, choose what you're watching – and who you're going with. Just don't forget to go!

Melbourne Cup Carnival

7 November @ Flemington

We couldn't possibly have omitted the race that stops the nation, no matter that it's been less than a month since we went to the 2016 event. It doesn't matter whether you care for the thoroughbred horses who'll be doing the racing. Everyone's looking forward to the Aussie tradition that goes back to 1861, whether they admit it or not. And what we personally can't wait for is the Fashion on the Field events – especially the Family competition we first saw in 2011, which is cute and surprisingly fashion-forward at the same time.

8 – 12 June @ Deaking Edge

At a time when we're used to watching people on the telly trying to sing better than the next guy, attending a choir festival feels surprisingly fresh and interesting. Impressive voices and masterful conductors from all over the world will once again join us over the Queen's Birthday Weekend for concerts, masterclasses and more. Considering the renewed popularity of choir singing and the brilliant choir videos making the rounds of the internet, there's lots to look forward even for MISF newbies. Make sure you catch No Excuses! and Street Requiem at Melbourne Recital Centre.

So there you have it – five of the dozens of events here to entertain us in 2017. If you're a regular, you're going anyway. If you haven't tried some of these, you'll be pleasantly surprised. After all, even if the central theme is not always exactly your thing, you simply can't beat the vibe of a major entertainment event, especially in Melbourne. See you there!