Either people are trying to cram in the best of summer before it’s over, or there’s something in the water—there are simply too many good things going on this weekend to not do a bumper events edition of The Melbourne 417. Reading the news and looking for jobs can wait until Monday, take your pick from the best things going on in Melbourne over the next few days and beyond.

Fashion Forward

The Melbourne Fashion Festival kicks off this weekend here in the fashion capital of Aus, and strap in because there is a lot going on. This weekend sees talks, workshops and exhibitions starting all over the city, from an Afghan embroidery workshop to the Kylie Minogue costume showcase, to a vintage streetwear pop-up market. A major part of the festival is the range of high-fashion runway shows open to the public—turns out you don't have to be an influencer to get in to these things. Check out the full programme here.

Fitzroy Fiesta

Nobody knows how to have a good time like the Latin Americans, and this weekend they are partying in Fitzroy, bringing us the annual Johnson Street Fiesta. This celebration of culture sees the roads close to allow for dancing on the street, the tastiest South American food stalls and plenty of live music. This completely free event has people drinking and dancing on the street until late on Saturday night—it'll be a lively one.

Free Music

The final free concert of the summer will grace Sidney Myer Music Bowl on Saturday night. The Symphonic Showcase will bring some classical flair to the open air. Even if it's not quite your usual taste, pack a picnic, grab a spot on the hill, and soak up the sounds of summer. There's no ticket required, but get there early to secure a good view and be entertained by Melbourne Youth Orchestra while you wait for the main event.

OPA!

Plates at the ready—Melbourne’s Greek Festival is back, taking over Lonsdale Street this weekend. Expect souvlaki, loukoumades, and enough feta to feed the 5000. You can also expect traditional dancing, live music, and enough blue and white touches to transport you back to Europe. Whether you're there for the food, the culture, or just an excuse to smash a plate without consequences, it’s set to be a big one.

Prosecco at the Parish

Repent all your sins and take a step into Abbotsford Convent not to sing some primary school bangers but for the annual Prosecco Festival. This Saturday, swap hymns for bubbles as you sip your way through various Italian and Aussie prosecco. There will of course be some delicious Italian food on offer to help soak up the drinks—we're talking arancini, cheese, lasagne, pizza, cannoli, tiramisu, gelato: the works. There are two sessions throughout the day, depending how early you're up for popping the first cork.

Pistachio Papi Lovers Unite

Yo-Chi frequenters will be all over the absolute delicacy that is Pistachio Papi by now. The next sweet treat takeover is a collaboration with Krispy Kreme, bringing the cult-favourite spread to the inside of their famous doughnuts. To celebrate the launch, there’s a pop-up at the Collins Street store this Saturday from 12 pm – 4 pm. You can only buy four at a time, so bring a disguise if you're after a big haul, and like all good pop-ups in this life, free tote bags are up for grabs.

London DJs in Town

You may recall from Tuesday's newsletter that radio royalty NTS are in Melbourne this weekend putting on the day party of the year, and we thought we'd remind you. They’ve lined up the best groovy electronic DJs from 5 pm to 3 am at the Northcote Theatre for their biggest Aussie event to date, and they're very popular events. The final few tickets are still remaining for $98.95—as long as it's under $100 it's fine, that's the rule, right?

Breakfast Boogie

With NTS in town from London, they couldn't just do the one event. On Sunday morning, NTS DJ Flo Dill is putting on a super cool breakfast event at Cam's Kiosk in Abbotsford. This very chilled session from 10 am - 4 pm will see eggs, bacon, beans and, of course, cocktails flowing all day long—no better way to unwind after a heavy Saturday. There is limited capacity in the courtyard at this free event—worth dragging yourself out of bed for.

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