Laughter and Charity: Comedy Festival and Kids Day Out Lead Melbourne's Good Friday

Melbourne International Comedy Festival Hits Its Stride

The city is buzzing with laughter today as the Melbourne International Comedy Festival celebrates its 40th anniversary. With venues across the CBD hosting world-class talent, Friday, 3 April is a prime time to catch some of the biggest names in the business. Highlights for today include performances by local icons and international stars:

• Kitty Flanagan: The beloved comedian performs her latest show, 'Glad Game,' at the Regent Theatre.
• Celia Pacquola: Catch her brand-new hour of stand-up at the Comedy Theatre.
• Lano & Woodley: The legendary duo brings their signature slapstick and wit to the stage for a limited run.
• Festival Club: For those looking for late-night laughs, the Festival Club at Max Watt’s offers a rotating lineup of surprise guests and experimental sets.

Good Friday Appeal: Kids Day Out at MCEC

A true Melbourne tradition, the Good Friday Appeal’s 'Kids Day Out' takes over the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm today. This massive community event is free to enter, with all proceeds from activities going directly to The Royal Children’s Hospital. Families can enjoy a full day of entertainment, including:

• Teddy Bear Hospital: Children can bring their favourite plush toys for a check-up with real medical students.
• Carnival Rides: A variety of rides and games for children of all ages.
• Emergency Services Zone: Kids can get up close with fire trucks, police cars, and ambulances while meeting local heroes.
• Live Stage Performances: Continuous music, dance, and character appearances throughout the day.

Art and After-Dark Culture at the NGV

The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) offers a sophisticated way to spend the evening with 'NGV Friday Nights.' As part of the current major exhibition season, the gallery stays open late, blending art with live music and fine dining. Today’s highlights at the NGV include:

• Westwood | Kawakubo: A major exhibition exploring the radical designs of Vivienne Westwood and Rei Kawakubo.
• NGV Friday Nights: Enjoy live DJ sets and themed bars within the Federation Court from 6:00 pm.
• Top Arts 2026: Located at NGV Australia (Fed Square), this exhibition showcases the incredible creativity of Victoria’s top VCE art and design students.

Live Music and Local Markets

Beyond the comedy stages, music fans can head to the Forum Melbourne to see legendary rock act The Black Crowes, who are performing their second of two sold-out shows today. For those in the outer suburbs, the Easter Carnival at Casey Central Park kicks off at midday, featuring egg hunts and a spectacular fire show at 7:00 pm. Please note that while many community events are active, the Queen Victoria Market is closed today for the Good Friday public holiday.