What's On In Melbourne This November

Did you hear that? That’s the sound of 2016 whizzing past at a rate of knots. That’s right – Halloween is over, but as it’s still not quite Christmas (you hear that, David Jones? Get those decorations down for at least another month, please) that can only mean one thing – November has arrived. Often overlooked due to the onset of yuletide yearning, there’s actually a lot going on this month that you shouldn’t miss. So, before another month slips by, here are our list top ‘must-do’s’ for November in Melbourne. Enjoy!

Australian International Tattoo Expo

When: 18 – 20 November

Where: Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre, South Wharf

A creative city to its core, Melbourne loves a good bit of art. If that art happens to be displayed on a canvas of human skin, all the better. To celebrate body art in all its glory, the Australian International Tattoo Expo is back for another ink-redible year of… ink. Some of the biggest names in tattooing, piercing and body-mod will be in attendance – such as Corey Devine and Jesse Smith – so you can revel in the latest styles and designs on the international tattoo stage. Not only that, but there’ll be no shortage of food, drink, vendors and entertainment to keep you going.

Melbourne Music Week

When: 11 – 19 November

Where: State Library of Victoria, Melbourne; various

November heralds the onset of one of the most anticipated events on Melbourne’s calendar – Melbourne Music Week. Over 240 artists from across the globe will descend upon our fair city, along with some true-blue Aussie creative talent on display. Being a creative space, MMW is of course more than just a music festival – incorporating an imaginative line-up spanning music, film, art, design and hospitality. Expect concerts in unconventional spaces, artistic collaborations, industry events, workshops, film screenings and more.

Festival of the Espresso Martini

When: 5 November

Where: Melbourne Meat Market, 5 Blackwood Street

Can you get any more ‘Melbourne’ than sipping Espresso Martinis in the afternoon sun? We don’t think so, and neither do our friends over at Mr Black. In honour of this Melburnian adoration, the Festival of the Espresso Martini promises to bring to the table all the caffeinated concoctions your heart could desire, with the likes of Campos Coffee, Rushmore, Coast Cold Brew, First Press Coffee, Two Birds Brewing and Ketel One all on hand to satisfy your cravings. But wait, there’s more… there will also be food trucks, tunes and coffee pong for those who can tear themselves away from the liquor for a brief moment…

Melbourne Vegan Eats Presents Brew & Food Fest

When: 5 November

Where: Michael St, Brunswick

Veganism, in all its glory, is taking over Melbourne (and the world). Get involved in the best way with the inaugural Brew & Food Fest, brought to you by Melbourne Vegan Eats. The premise is a roaring street party, complete with multiple options of mouthwatering vegan fare and sweet, sweet booze, and get this… it’s free. Look forward to a lineup of your favourite businesses – featuring your favourite pubs, bars, restaurants, cafes and breweries that do great vegan food and drinks, making this annual event extra special.

Reefer Madness: The Musical

When: 24 November – 4 December

Where: Chapel off Chapel, 12 Little Chapel St, Prahran

Women cry for it, men die for it… what else could it be, but Reefer Madness? Inspired by the 1936 anti-marijuana propaganda film of the same name, this musical satire tells a tongue-in-cheek tale of the hysteria caused when clean-cut teenagers fall prey to the ‘demon weed’, marijuana. Playing for two weeks only, the cult musical Reefer Madness: the Musical hits the stage at Chapel off Chapel from 24th November. This hilarious and over the top show features songs which include Jesus, zombies, and an orgy… what else could you possibly want from your November entertainment?

Summer Night Market at Queen Victoria Market

When: Every Wednesday from 16 November 2016 – 8 March 2017

Where: Queen Victoria Market, 513 Elizabeth St, Melbourn

Summer is the time for markets in Melbourne, and one of the best is old faithful, Queen Vic herself. Returning for its 19th year, the Summer Night Market will blast back onto the scene in a blaze of disco/funk-themed glory on Wednesday 16th November. Expect 150 merchandise traders showcasing their wares, including a variety of vintage and handcrafted apparel – making the market the perfect hunting ground for that perfect Christmas gift.

Thought that was it, didn’t you? Well, you’re wrong. But be happy about that, because there will also be free music and roving entertainment, including Tek Tek Ensemble, performing virtuosic and original music inspired by tropical jungles; That Gold Street Band, a funk and soul party band from Melbourne; The Everymen, a combo of Piano and Drums blended throughout a bottomed blues vibe; and James Kenyon who threads narrative through music to re-tell Australian stories.

Fiesta 2016 Hispanic Latin-American Street Festival

When: 19 – 20 November

Where: Johnston St, Fitzroy, Melbourne

Cha cha, samba or merengue? How about all three, topped off with sizzling pans of paella, jugs of sangria and hot donuts in abundance? If that sounds like a bit of you, get down to the 38th annual Feista, and celebrate the Hispanic Latin American culture in the best way possible. The Main Stage features a jam packed line-up of free dance classes, DJ’s and live entertainment all weekend as well as dance showcases by local dance schools and community groups. Hurra!

By Courtney White

FIND A VENUE