Everyone loves a freebie (especially edible ones), so if you've got a birthday coming up, check out this list of everything you can get for free on your birthday in Melbourne—a small price to pay for handing out your data. Here is what’s going on in Melbourne this weekend.

The Headlines

• In a somewhat fascinating turn of events, Melbourne has been named in the top 10 most cost-of-living-friendly cities in the world. It came in at seventh with the criteria considering annual average wage, unemployment rate and the average price of everyday essentials. The one thing that let Melbourne down was the cost of public transport, could this signal the end of the Myki inspectors once and for all? Next time you complain about the price of a pint, take a breath and be grateful you're not in London or Dublin.

• A trip to a winery is quite near the top of most people's Melbourne bucket list, with a bush doof not that far behind. Well, this event combines the two, and the next date has been set. Next February, Round Rock Winery in Plumpton will host an open-air day-to-night music special set against a picturesque backdrop. It would be rude not to enjoy with a vino in hand really.

• Many out-of-town festivals are on offer today, and another newly announced lineup is for Loch Hart—a little less Strawberry Fields and a little more Boardmasters by the sounds of it. If raving to techno isn't your thing, this Great Ocean Road fezzy in early Jan could be just up your street. Still bringing a great time and good vibes, but with an added focus on comedy, the sea breeze, and a community feel. Tickets on sale now for $250.

Where to Go on Friday

Time to get the tacos and tequila flowing at this weekend's free Mexican festival happening at Tom's Block in Southbank. With Mexican food vendors, mariachi bands, colourful costumes, and plenty of salsa (the dip and the dance), it's a fiesta that can't be missed. It's bound to bring the best vibes over the weekend, sipping on a marg and snacking on some churros, and even the temperature is looking pretty Mexican in celebration.

arribamexicanfestival

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Where to Go on Saturday

If you're anything like us, you and your beloved water bottle have been attached at the hip since landing in Australia. Well, this Saturday you can take said water bottle for a little treat. Green Cup has paired up with Frank Green to offer free personalisation all day between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at their Hawthorn branch. The deal is valid with any food or drink purchase—which won't be an issue since, as we've claimed before, they do the best açaí bowls in the city.

Where to Go on Sunday

It’s time to experience the wild side of horticulture this weekend at Live at the Gardens in the Botanical Gardens, with a schedule of popular concerts over the weekend and tickets still remaining for Saturday and Sundays gigs. What’s usually a wholesome weekend walk destination becomes much less wholesome, especially on Sunday when DJ Tash Sultana takes to the stage. Check out the full weekend schedule for the outdoor concerts.

Where to Eat and Drink

Today’s pick has a name for itself as one of Melbourne’s must-visit restaurants. Hochi Mama has branches in both the CBD and Richmond and injects a fun and innovative approach to Asian fusion. Your senses will be stimulated by its neon signs, good music, and lively servers. Go for the feed me tasting menu to give a few things a try for just $49pp. And, since it’s the weekend, pair it with a couple of delicious cocktails.

Where to Live

Another day, another Christmas sublet. Today's offering is a room in Carlton, available from the 6th of December to the end of Jan. Sharing with three girls, it sounds like you'd be in for a few months of wine nights, shopping, gossiping, and even a spot of surfing. Fascinated by the huge cut-out cactus on the balcony set to feature in the background of all your summer Instagram stories.

Core selling point: very wholesome Christmas tree.

Where to Work

The hold Chemist Warehouse quickly takes over you is something no one warns you about before moving to Australia. It's the narrow aisles, obnoxiously bright yellow tags, paired with irresistible cheap, cheap prices. Anyway, this isn't an ode to the Warehouse, instead an opportunity to wriggle out of the aisles and into the stock room. The Hawthorn store is looking for new retail staff if you're up for it. Need a bigger nudge than the discounts? One of the main responsibilities is literally advertised as "repeating the same movements"—thrilling.

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