Lunar New Year Fireworks and Live Orchestral Cinema: Melbourne’s Tuesday Highlights

Welcoming the Year of the Horse in Chinatown

Today marks the official start of the Lunar New Year, and Melbourne’s Chinatown is the beating heart of the celebration for the Year of the Horse. Starting at approximately 11:30 AM, the historic precinct along Little Bourke Street will transform with the rhythmic beat of drums and traditional lion dances. You can expect a vibrant atmosphere filled with cultural performances, firecrackers, and community activities spanning from Swanston Street to Exhibition Street. Local vendors and street stalls will be serving festive delicacies, making it an ideal destination for those looking to experience the energy of this significant cultural milestone during their lunch break or after work.

Live Scores Under the Stars at Fed Square

For a unique cinematic experience, head to Federation Square tonight for the 'Open Air at the Square' series. This evening features a special screening of the 1917 silent film classic The Adventurer. To bring this vintage gem to life, the film will be accompanied by a live musical score performed by Sally Ford and the Idiomatics. This free event offers a rare opportunity to enjoy the intersection of early 20th-century cinema and contemporary Melbourne musicianship, all set against the iconic backdrop of the city's main square. It is a perfect way to spend a mild Tuesday evening outdoors.

Brazlombia: A Latin Rhythms Takeover

If you are in the mood for music and movement, the Wax Music Lounge on Flinders Street is hosting the 'Brazlombia' festival today. This event celebrates the music of the Latin American diaspora, with a lineup of rotating DJs spinning a sizzling mix of house, latin, and disco. The festivities begin with a happy hour from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, followed by a night of high-energy dancing in the lounge’s intimate basement setting. It is a fantastic option for those looking to break up the work week with some vibrant international sounds.

Family Fun and Exploration at Melbourne Museum

Tuesday is a signature day for younger residents at the Melbourne Museum in Carlton. The museum continues its popular 'Tiny Tours: Big Adventures for Little Explorers,' which offers guided, age-appropriate experiences for toddlers and children. Beyond the guided tours, visitors can explore a range of permanent and temporary exhibitions including 600 Million Years, The Melbourne Story, and the ever-popular Dinosaur Walk. The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, providing a rich educational escape for families and history enthusiasts alike.