Culinary Feasts and Coastal Markets: What’s On in Melbourne Today

A Sunday Full of Flavor and Culture

Melbourne is coming alive this Sunday, March 22, 2026, with a vibrant mix of international festivals, world-class theater, and the city’s beloved weekly traditions. Whether you are looking to indulge in the finest local produce, browse handmade crafts by the beach, or catch a high-energy stage production, today offers plenty of reasons to get out and explore the city.

The Melbourne Food and Wine Festival

The city’s premier culinary event continues today as the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival takes over various precincts. Food lovers can dive into a massive program of over 200 events across the city and regional Victoria. Highlights for today include various food pop-ups, tasting workshops, and exclusive collaborations at local restaurants. It is the perfect opportunity to sample seasonal flavors and discover the creative talent driving Melbourne’s world-renowned dining scene.

Markets and Coastal Strolls

No Sunday in Melbourne is complete without a visit to the local markets. The iconic St Kilda Esplanade Market is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, featuring over 200 stalls of original art and handcrafts right by the sea. If you prefer a more central location, the Sunday Market at Arts Centre Melbourne (now positioned at Southgate) offers a curated selection of unique jewelry, artisanal soaps, and bespoke fashion. For those further north, the Kingsbury Drive Community Market provides a local atmosphere with fresh produce and vintage finds.

Theater and Stage Highlights

Melbourne’s East End Theatre District is bustling today with several major productions. At Her Majesty’s Theatre, audiences can experience the glamour of the 1920s with "The Great Gatsby: A Jazz Ballet Odyssey," a stunning blend of classical dance and high-energy jazz. Meanwhile, the satirical powerhouse "The Book of Mormon" continues its run at the Princess Theatre, and the Melbourne Theatre Company is presenting the gripping production of "West Gate" at the Southbank Theatre.

Concerts and Community Meetups

The music scene is hitting a high note tonight at the Melbourne Park precinct. International Mandopop star Silence Wang is performing his "Rise of Romance" tour at Rod Laver Arena, while Big Time Rush brings their "In Real Life Worldwide Tour" to Margaret Court Arena at 7:30 pm. For those seeking a quieter community vibe, a weekly community board game group is meeting in Melbourne East, offering a welcoming space for locals and visitors to make new friends over tabletop favorites.

Expos and Fitness

For those looking for an active Sunday, the AusFitness Expo is in full swing at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC). Running from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, the expo features elite fitness challenges, the latest in wellness technology, and appearances by global sporting heroes, providing plenty of inspiration for your own training goals.