Easter events Melbourne: The best family-friendly events for the long weekend

Easter in Melbourne is a pretty special time. With a four-day long weekend, families get a chance to slow down, eat way too much chocolate, and enjoy everything the city has to offer.

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Melbourne has a bit of everything this Easter. From free activities to big-ticket festivals, there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained.

Here are the best (yes, the cream of the crop) Easter events in Melbourne in 2025.

When is Easter Weekend in Melbourne 2025?

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So when exactly should you flip to in your calendar?

Here’s the rundown:

• Good Friday: 18 April 2025
• Holy Saturday: 19 April 2025
• Easter Sunday: 20 April 2025
• Easter Monday: 21 April 2025

And if you’ve got kids, you’ll be glad to know the easter school holidays (5 April – 20 April) line up perfectly. It’s the ideal time to plan some fun outings and make wholesome memories.

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What’s free and open on the Easter long weekend

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If you’re looking for fun without spending a fortune, Melbourne has plenty of free events over Easter.

Art and exhibitions

The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) will be open, with a range of free exhibitions to check out.

Over at ACMI, there’s an interactive gaming experience called Int. Spaceship – Night, inspired by classic cinema and museum exhibits.

Parks and gardens

The Royal Botanic Gardens is always a winner for a relaxed Easter picnic or a stroll. Federation Square will also have free family-friendly activities, including live music and kids’ workshops.

Markets and street entertainment

Queen Victoria Market is a great spot to wander through over the weekend, with great stalls and live entertainment popping up.

If you’re planning to visit any of the major attractions, it’s best to check opening hours in advance, as some places close on Good Friday and Easter Sunday.

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Top Easter festivals and events in Melbourne

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Bendigo Easter Festival (18–21 April)

The Bendigo Easter Festival is one of Victoria’s longest-running Easter events, featuring the famous Chinese Dragon Parade, live entertainment, and carnival rides.

Easter at Federation Square

Easter at Federation Square features a mix of live performances, craft activities, and an Easter egg hunt right in the heart of the city.

RocKwiz’s Really Really Good Friday (18 April, Hamer Hall)

RocKwiz’s Really Really Good Friday will be a fun mix of music and comedy that’s great for older kids and parents.

These events can get busy, so booking tickets in advance (where needed) is a good idea.

Easter family-friendly activities

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If you’re looking for Easter-themed activities beyond the big festivals, there are plenty of fun things to do with kids.

Melbourne Zoo and Healesville Sanctuary

Both the Melbourne Zoo and the Healesville Sanctuary are open over the long weekend and usually have special Easter events, including themed animal encounters.

Melbourne International Comedy Festival (26 March – 20 April)

While not strictly Easter-related, there are lots of family-friendly comedy shows running throughout the holidays.

Getting to these events is easy with Melbourne’s public transport, but keep in mind that services may run on a holiday timetable over the long weekend.

Outdoor adventures and nature escapes

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Want to burn off all that chocolate? Here are some great outdoor activities happening over Easter:

Warratina Easter Egg Hunt (19–20 April, Wandin North)

At the Warratina Easter Egg Hunt, kids can hunt for eggs in a beautiful lavender farm setting with prizes to be won.

Best picnic spots

The Dandenong Ranges and Yarra Valley are great places to set up for a picnic and let the kids run wild.

Where to eat and drink over the Easter weekend

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Chocolate lovers, take note

The Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie is hosting Easter egg hunts from 18–20 April. Expect plenty of chocolate tasting, too.

Hot cross buns

Bakeries like Lune and Tivoli Road Bakery do some of the best hot cross buns in town – get in early before they sell out.

Easter markets

Queen Victoria Market is a great place to grab Easter treats, handmade gifts, and seasonal produce.

Since a lot of places adjust their hours over the long weekend, it’s worth checking ahead before making plans.

Wrapping it up

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Melbourne is the perfect place to spend Easter however your family chooses.

With so many free and ticketed activities happening across the city, there’s something for everyone – so start planning and make the most of it!