Home to the Honey Badger, Daniel Ricciardo, and McLaren's Oscar Piastri, the Australian Grand Prix is a fan favorite on the Formula 1 calendar. Not just because of the great racing and atmosphere, but also because of all the off track events that take place around Melbourne! Last year, the race weekend was filled with different functions that took place all around the city - read about them all here.
For 2024, here is our list of the best parties and events happening in Melbourne during the Australian Grand Prix.
Celebrate the Australian GP in style at the Grand Prix Street Party hosted by Middle Park Hotel. This lively event offers a festive atmosphere with live music, delicious food, and a variety of drinks. It's the perfect place to soak up the excitement of the race weekend and meet fellow F1 enthusiasts. The venue has numerous TV screens showcasing the race from all angles as well as F1 games and competitions where you can win different prizes! The event runs from Thursday March 21st to Sunday March 24th. It runs on a first come first serve basis so make sure to arrive early to ensure the best seat!
Hours:
Heineken Marquee: 10am - 11pm (Daily)
Pub: 12pm - Midnight (Daily)
Cost: Free
Find out more here.
Melbourne comes alive during the Formula 1 Grand Prix Weekend! Williams Racing is hosting a Fan Zone at Fed Square, presented by Kraken. Located in the heart of the city, the Williams Racing Fan Zone will give race goers the chance to interact with the drivers and members of the Williams team. There will also be an opportunity to purchase exclusive Williams Racing Merchandise. The Fan Zone also offers an immersive experience with F1 racing simulators, batak machines, the FW46 show car and lastly, the Heritage Zone where you can explore the team's history in the sport.
Hours:
March 18th - March 22nd: 11am - 7pm
March 23rd: 10am - 9pm
March 24th: 10am- 6pm
Cost: Free
Find out more here.
While not technically happening during the F1 weekend, if you're in town between March 27th and April 21st then you won't want to miss the chance to attend the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. This hilarious event features a lineup of local and international comedians performing across multiple venues in the city. From stand-up acts to sketch comedy and improv, there's something to tickle everyone's funny bone.
Cost: Ranges from Free - ~$100
Make sure to look ahead of time to book your tickets and get the best price!
Find out more here.
The longest-running musical on Broadway is now making it's way to Melbourne. Chicago The Musical is set in the 1920s and features the story of Roxie Hart, a nightclub dancer and housewife who murders her lover when he threatens to leave her. It is one of the most renowned and well loved Broadway musicals. The musical will be playing in Melbourne from March 23rd until May 26th. If you are looking for something to fill the time in between the race weekend, this is a great
Cost: From $69.90 - $199.90
Find out more here.
The Queen Victoria Market is the largest open air market in the Southern hemisphere. It is located in the heart of the city and is home to countless small businesses. There are a variety of things to purchase ranging from clothing, art, homewares, jewellery, skincare, pet supplies, flowers and books. There are also numerous stands selling fresh produce, artisan cheeses, baked goods and lastly, the market has many cafes for a mid day pick-me-up coffee!
Hours:
Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday: 6am - 3pm
Wednesday: CLOSED
Thursday: 6am - 3pm
Friday: 6am - 3pm
Saturday: 6am - 4pm
Sunday: 9am - 4pm
Cost: Free to enter
Find out more here.
The Leonardo da Vinci experience will opt to showcase da Vinci's genius, his art and timeless innovation. Located at the Lume, visitors are immersed in da Vinci's world and can learn more about his life story. This is the first time that his original sketches are being showcased in Australia and it is a great chance to learn more about da Vinci's story and his contributions to the art world.
Hours:
March 16th - June 16th
Open daily from 10am - 5:30 pm (Last entry: 3:30pm)
Cost:
Adult/General: $49.90
Senior / Concession: $39.90
Child / Student: $29.90
Family: $129.90
Find out more here.
The F1 Australian GP 2024 weekend offers more than just high-speed racing action; it's also an opportunity to experience the Melbourne vibrant nightlife scene. There are plenty of great pubs and bars to visit after the excitement of an F1 race at the Albert Park Circuit.
Here's a list of some of the best options nearby:
If you’re attending the Australian GP now or in the future, we highly recommend starting with our “Know Before You Go” discussion for all the insider tips and tricks you need to maximize your experience.
When you’re finished, jump into the Grand Prix Travel community on FanAmp and Reddit to ask questions and connect with other avid F1 fans.
