A woman dressed as a colourful rabbit stands atop of a Moomba Parade float

The magic of Moomba brings back so many memories of being a child for this Melbourne mama. From being a little one visiting the rides and watching the Moomba parade, to a teenager hanging on the banks of the Yarra watching the water-skiers, to then taking my own two kids as toddlers and now young teens. There really is Moomba magic in the air.

And now the Moomba Festival returns in March for its 69th year, taking over the banks of the Yarra River, Birrarung Marr and Alexandra Gardens for another huge, long weekend of family friendly fun. Best of all, entry is free! 

Moomba will open a day earlier on Thursday 9 March through until Monday 13 March, serving up five days of Moomba magic. How lucky are we?!

It’s no secret that Melbourne’s beloved Moomba is a kid’s paradise. There are loads of fun, free activities to keep the whole family entertained – from epic skate park competitions and water sports to face painting, crafts, dance workshops, Design-a-Float, kid’s yoga and loads more.  

Families enjoy carnival rides at Moomba.

So whether you’re a dare devil bursting for a ride fix, a food-truck-loving-foodie, or looking to get your dance groove on to some awesome beats, Moomba has something for everyone.  

Enjoy event favourites such as the hilarious Birdman Rally on Sunday 12 March, where courageous competitors don inventive homemade flying devices and use them to hurtle themselves over the Yarra all in the name of charity and – of course – a whole lot of fun!  

A man dressed in a blue feathered bird suit leaps from a platform above the Yarra River in the Birdman Rally

And don’t miss the iconic Moomba Parade on Monday 13 March, capturing hearts and inspiring imaginations with larger-than-life floats, dance troupes, community groups and performers.  

A woman dressed as a colourful rabbit stands atop of a Moomba Parade float as hoards of people line the streets watching

So gather the family and come play at Moomba! Full program at www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/moomba.  

See what else is on around Melbourne.