Sun, Satire, and Soundwaves: Your Melbourne Morning Briefing for Saturday

A Perfect Summer Saturday

Melbourne is waking up to a quintessential summer morning this Saturday, February 7, 2026. The mood across the city is one of relaxed celebration as we hit the peak of the February festival season. With clear skies and a comfortable high of 25°C forecast, the city’s parks, laneways, and coastal strips are expected to be bustling. However, citizens should be mindful of a very high UV index of 9; if you are heading to the Royal Botanic Gardens for the Moonlight Cinema or hitting the bay, sun protection is non-negotiable today.

The Talk of the Town: The Mormons are Back

The biggest talking point at the water cooler—or rather, the pre-show bar—is the triumphant return of The Book of Mormon. Having officially opened its latest run at the Princess Theatre just last night, the city is buzzing with the sharp satire and catchy tunes of Trey Parker and Matt Stone’s masterpiece. As one of the most successful musical productions in Melbourne’s history, its first full Saturday of performances is a major cultural milestone for the East End Theatre District. Whether you are a first-timer or a returning fan, the spectacle is proof that Melbourne remains the undisputed theatre capital of Australia.

The Final Hurrah for Midsumma

As we move through the weekend, there is a distinct sense of 'final call' energy as the Midsumma Festival enters its closing days. Since late January, the city has been draped in rainbow colors, and today serves as the penultimate day to engage with the festival’s diverse arts and culture program before the massive Victoria’s Pride Street Party takes over Gertrude and Smith Streets tomorrow. Today is the day for those who want to catch the final gallery exhibitions or small-scale performances before the festival wraps up for another year.

Feel-Good Feature: Small Creators, Big Stages

If you are looking for a reason to smile today, look no further than the grassroots talent being showcased across the city. There are two major ways to support local Victorian artists today:

• Garage Band at Fed Square: As part of the 'Open Air at the Square' series, emerging Victorian musicians are taking over the main stage for free. It is a rare chance to see the next generation of talent in the heart of the CBD without spending a cent.
• Artist Alley at Caribbean Park: Over in Scoresby, a massive pavilion is playing host to over 300 independent makers, creators, and small businesses. From hand-crafted retail finds to original illustrations, it is a heartwarming display of the city's creative resilience.

Whether you are heading to the Werribee Open Range Zoo for a Sunset Safari or simply enjoying a coffee in a sun-drenched laneway, today is about embracing the ease of a Melbourne summer.