Melbourne Morning: Pride on the Streets, Gridlock in the East

The Sunday Outlook

Good morning, Melbourne. Today, Sunday, 8 February 2026, the city is waking up to a perfect summer finale. We are expecting a mild and pleasant day with a maximum of 26°C and plenty of sunshine. While the humidity remains low, the UV index is forecast to hit a 'very high' 10, so make sure you are prepared if you are heading to the various outdoor festivals taking over our streets today.

Talking Point: The 'Big Build' Bottleneck

If you are planning to travel through the eastern suburbs today, be prepared for significant delays. The major talking point across the breakfast tables this morning is the full weekend closure of the city-bound lanes on the Eastern Freeway. As part of the North East Link works, the stretch between Doncaster Road and Bulleen Road is completely shut until 5:00 AM Monday. Transport authorities are warning of delays up to 60 minutes, with surrounding arterial roads like Doncaster Road and Burke Road expected to be heavily congested. If you can avoid the area, do so, or leave much earlier than planned to navigate the detours.

The Mood: A City in Celebration

Despite the traffic woes, the mood in the inner north is electric. Today marks the grand finale of the 2026 Midsumma Festival with the iconic Victoria’s Pride Street Party. From midday until 9:00 PM, Gertrude and Smith Streets in Fitzroy will be transformed into a massive, free block party. The vibe is one of inclusivity and progress, featuring multiple stages of live music, drag performances, and market stalls. With neo-soul artist Mo’Ju headlining the main stage, expect the streets to be packed with a celebratory crowd marking the end of three weeks of queer arts and culture.

Feel-Good Story: Welcoming the Horse

The spirit of community extends further west and north today as Melbourne begins its Lunar New Year celebrations. While the official Year of the Horse doesn’t gallop in until later this month, the Sunshine Lunar New Year Festival is bringing Hampshire Road to life today. It is a true feel-good community event, featuring traditional lion and dragon dances, firecrackers, and an array of street food. Similarly, Preston Market is hosting its own festival, offering a vibrant space for families to gather and enjoy cultural performances. It’s a wonderful reminder of the multicultural fabric that makes our city so resilient and lively.

Morning Essentials

• Weather: Mostly sunny, top of 26°C.
• Travel: Avoid the Eastern Freeway city-bound; expect 60-minute delays.
• What's On: Victoria’s Pride in Fitzroy (12 PM - 9 PM) and Lunar New Year in Sunshine and Preston.