City of Melbourne Council has announced it will support 54 events through its Event Partnership Program 2024, which are expected to entice more than 4.1 million people to the city.
Lord Mayor, Sally Capp (pictured, right) said the $2.6 million program will support a wide range of new events and returning favourites – from cultural festivals and sporting activations to community celebrations and food and wine experiences.
“Melbourne is world-renowned for its vibrant and diverse events calendar, which attracts millions of visitors to our city, supports traders and cements our reputation as the nation’s cultural capital,” she said.
“We’re supporting even more event organisers to create captivating experiences in the city, with more funding for dozens of new events and returning favourites in 2024.
“From Marvel-lous Christmas celebrations, a spectacular summer concert series and an unmissable cultural festival at the beloved Queen Victoria Market, there’ll be something for everyone to enjoy in the city.”
Highlights from the Event Partnership Program include:
- Christmas at Marvel Stadium – the Docklands venue will be transformed into a hub of festive activity in December;
- Melbourne Symphony Orchestra’s Sidney Myer Free Concert Series – a program of free summer orchestral concerts under the stars;
- ANZAC Day – an event to honour the courage and sacrifice of those who have served and currently serve, to protect the identity of our nation with a dawn service, commemoration march and wreath laying;
- African Music and Cultural Festival Summer at Queen Victoria Market – a vibrant celebration of diverse African cultures with food, music, art, fashion and activities for all ages;
- Zero Waste Festival – a community event showcasing the best in zero waste practices and initiatives.
Council will also provide additional in-kind support, helping event organisers with permits and marketing – making it even easier to activate the city to support local traders.
“We know events drive visitation to our city, and we expect more than 4 million people will make the most of this exciting line up of Council-supported events,” said City Activation portfolio lead Councillor, Roshena Campbell.
“These benefits will flow through to our retail, hospitality and other small businesses – providing the local economy with a boost.”
A number of events supported through the 2023 Event Partnership Program are still to come this year, including the Victorian Disability Sport & Recreation Festival, the Polish Festival and the Queensberry Cup.
“The MSO’s annual Sidney Myer Free Concert series has been a highlight of Melbourne’s cultural calendar for almost a century,” said Melbourne Symphony Orchestra Managing Director Sophie Galaise.
“They have been a meeting place for family and friends, and for so many, an introduction to a life-long love of orchestral music.
“In 2024, we are delighted to continue this great tradition, supported by City of Melbourne’s Event Partnership Program.”
For more information on the 2024 recipients, visit City of Melbourne.
