Easter Melbourne 2026 — Complete Guide to the Long Weekend (Events, What's Open & Things to Do)

Easter Melbourne 2026 — Complete Guide to the Long Weekend (Events, What's Open & Things to Do)

Easter 2026 falls in early April, giving Melbourne a glorious four-day long weekend to kick off autumn in style. Whether you're planning family egg hunts in the park, a lavish Good Friday seafood feast, a cheeky long-weekend getaway to the Yarra Valley, or simply want to know which shops are actually open — this guide has you covered.

We've pulled together everything you need to know about Easter in Melbourne 2026: the key dates, daylight saving changes, public holiday trading hours, the best events and activities, kid-friendly fun, dining options, day trips, and much more. Bookmark this page — you'll need it.

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Table of Contents

1. Easter 2026 Key Dates
2. Daylight Saving Ends Easter Sunday
3. What's Open & What's Closed
4. Easter Events & Activities
5. Easter Egg Hunts for Kids
6. Easter Markets & Shopping
7. Easter Dining — Good Friday Seafood, Brunch & High Tea
8. Day Trips for the Long Weekend
9. Free Things to Do Easter Weekend
10. Church Services
11. Weather Expectations
12. Transport & Getting Around
13. FAQ

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Easter 2026 Key Dates {#easter-2026-key-dates}

Easter always moves around — it's tied to the first full moon after the March equinox — so here are the dates you need to lock in for 2026:

That's four consecutive public holidays — one of the longest weekends on the Australian calendar. If you take Tuesday 7 April and Wednesday 8 April off work, you can stretch it into a luxurious nine-day break (Saturday 29 March through Sunday 6 April, returning Wednesday 9 April).

School Holidays

Victorian school holidays for Term 1 typically end just before Easter or overlap with the long weekend. In 2026, the last day of Term 1 is Friday 27 March, with students returning on Tuesday 14 April. That means the entire Easter period falls within school holidays — perfect for family activities but expect popular attractions to be busier than usual.

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⚠️ Daylight Saving Ends Easter Sunday {#daylight-saving-ends-easter-sunday}

Here's a detail that catches people off guard every year: daylight saving time ends on Easter Sunday 2026.

At 3:00 am on Sunday 5 April, clocks go back one hour to 2:00 am. That means:

• ☀️ You gain an extra hour of sleep (or an extra hour at the Easter Saturday night party)
• 🌅 Sunrise will feel earlier from Sunday onwards
• 🌙 It'll get dark noticeably earlier in the evening
• 📱 Most phones, laptops, and smart devices update automatically
• ⏰ Manually check wall clocks, oven clocks, car clocks, and any analogue watches

Pro tip: If you're heading to an Easter Sunday church service or brunch, double-check the time on your phone (which should auto-update) rather than relying on your bedside alarm clock. The last thing you want is to show up an hour early — or worse, an hour late to an egg hunt that starts on the dot.

Melbourne moves from AEDT (Australian Eastern Daylight Time, UTC+11) to AEST (Australian Eastern Standard Time, UTC+10).

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What's Open & What's Closed {#whats-open--whats-closed}

This is the section everyone frantically Googles on Good Friday morning. Victoria has specific public holiday trading restrictions that affect what's open over Easter. Here's the breakdown, day by day:

Good Friday — Friday 3 April ❌ Most Retail Closed

Good Friday is one of Victoria's most restricted trading days. Under the Shop Trading Reform Act 1996, most retail businesses must remain closed.

What's CLOSED on Good Friday:

• Major shopping centres (Chadstone, Highpoint, Eastland, Westfield Doncaster, etc.)
• Most retail shops, department stores, and chain stores
• Bunnings, Kmart, Target, Big W, and similar
• Most supermarkets (Coles, Woolworths, Aldi) — though some small independent grocers may open
• Crown Casino gaming floors (by law, closed for 25 hours from midnight Thursday)

What's OPEN on Good Friday:

• Cafés and restaurants (many choose to open, especially for the Good Friday seafood trade)
• Bakeries and milk bars
• Petrol stations and convenience stores
• Pharmacies (some — check with your local)
• Tourist attractions (Melbourne Zoo, Melbourne Museum, NGV, etc. — check individual hours)
• Cinemas
• The Queen Victoria Market is closed on Good Friday
• South Melbourne Market is closed on Good Friday
• Some bottle shops and cellars (restrictions apply — cannot sell alcohol before 1pm in some cases)

Hospitality note: Many of Melbourne's best restaurants do open on Good Friday, often with special seafood-focused menus. It's one of the busiest dining days of the year, so book ahead.

Easter Saturday — Saturday 4 April ✅ Mostly Open

Easter Saturday is the most "normal" day of the long weekend for shopping and services.

What's OPEN on Easter Saturday:

• Most shopping centres and retail stores — normal Saturday trading hours
• Supermarkets (Coles, Woolworths, Aldi)
• Queen Victoria Market — open (regular Saturday hours, typically 6am–3pm)
• South Melbourne Market — open (regular hours, typically 8am–4pm)
• Cafés, restaurants, pubs, and bars
• All tourist attractions

What might be CLOSED:

• Some smaller independent businesses may choose to close for the long weekend
• Banks (Saturday closures are standard)

Easter Sunday — Sunday 5 April ⚠️ Restricted Trading

Easter Sunday is a restricted trading day in Victoria, though the rules are slightly less strict than Good Friday.

What's CLOSED on Easter Sunday:

• Large retailers in metropolitan Melbourne are generally not permitted to trade
• Major shopping centres — many will be closed or operating with very limited stores
• Some supermarkets (check your local store — some smaller format stores may open)

What's OPEN on Easter Sunday:

• Cafés, restaurants, and hospitality venues
• Petrol stations and convenience stores
• Queen Victoria Market — closed (normally closed on Sundays and Mondays)
• South Melbourne Market — closed (doesn't trade on Sundays)
• Tourist attractions, museums, and galleries
• Hardware stores and garden centres under certain size thresholds may open

Remember: Clocks go back one hour at 3am, so you have an extra hour to enjoy the day (or recover from Saturday night).

Easter Monday — Monday 6 April 🟡 Public Holiday Hours

Easter Monday is a public holiday, but trading restrictions are more relaxed than Good Friday or Easter Sunday.

What's OPEN on Easter Monday:

• Many shopping centres open with reduced public holiday hours (typically 10am–5pm)
• Some supermarkets — reduced hours
• Cafés, restaurants, and hospitality — most open, though some take the day off
• Tourist attractions — generally open with normal or slightly reduced hours
• Queen Victoria Market — closed (normally closed on Mondays)
• South Melbourne Market — closed (normally closed on Mondays)

Penalty rates: Staff working on public holidays receive penalty rates (typically double time and a half), which is why some smaller businesses choose to close. Expect surcharges of 10–15% at some restaurants and cafés.

Quick Reference: Easter Trading Summary

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Easter Events & Activities {#easter-events--activities}

Melbourne always delivers when it comes to Easter events. From massive family fun days to pumping nightlife parties and everything in between, here's what's happening in 2026.

🎉 Easter Family Fun Day

When: Saturday 4 April, 11:00 AM Where: 231–251 Mt Alexander Rd, Ascot Vale Details: A full day of family entertainment in Melbourne's inner north-west. Expect Easter egg hunts, face painting, carnival games, live entertainment, food trucks, and activities for kids of all ages. A great option if you're looking for an all-in-one Easter experience. Tickets: Easter Family Fun Day on Eventbrite

🍽️ A Gilded Good Friday Seafood Supper

When: Friday 3 April, 6:00 PM Where: The Savoy Hotel, Little Collins Street, Melbourne CBD Details: The Savoy Hotel transforms into an opulent seafood haven for Good Friday. Expect platters of freshly shucked oysters, Moreton Bay bugs, whole baked fish, and all the oceanic decadence you can handle — paired with champagne and cocktails in a gilded dining room setting. Tickets: A Gilded Good Friday Seafood Supper on Eventbrite

🥂 Bottomless Brunch: Easter Edition

When: Sunday 5 April, 10:30 AM Where: Novotel Melbourne Glen Waverley Details: What better way to celebrate Easter Sunday (and that extra hour of sleep) than with bottomless brunch? The Novotel Glen Waverley puts on a festive spread with Easter-themed dishes and free-flowing drinks. Tickets: Bottomless Brunch: Easter Edition on Eventbrite

🎶 EKHAYA Easter Weekend Bash ft Chelsea Sloan

When: Saturday 4 April, 9:00 PM Where: Bourke Street Courtyard, Melbourne CBD Details: One of Melbourne's hottest Easter Saturday night parties. EKHAYA brings the vibes with a lineup headlined by Chelsea Sloan, pumping through the night at the iconic Bourke Street Courtyard. Expect great music, a lively crowd, and a night to remember. Tickets: EKHAYA Easter Weekend Bash on Eventbrite

🎸 EMO Easter Good Friday Eve

When: Thursday 2 April, 8:00 PM Where: Deluxe Bar, Moonee Ponds Details: Kick off the long weekend a night early with an emo and alternative music night at Deluxe Bar. Dust off your eyeliner, dig out the band tees, and prepare for a nostalgic trip through the best emo, pop-punk, and alt-rock anthems of the 2000s and beyond. Tickets: EMO Easter Good Friday Eve on Eventbrite

⛪ Rave in the Church 2.0

When: Saturday 4 April, 3:00 PM Where: The Mission to Seafarers Victoria, Docklands Details: An absolutely unique Melbourne experience — a full-blown rave inside the stunning Mission to Seafarers building in Docklands. This heritage-listed space with soaring ceilings and stained glass becomes an unforgettable dance venue. Electronic music, incredible production, and a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. Tickets: Rave in the Church 2.0 on Eventbrite

🎉 SUNDAYLICIOUS Easter Thursday Night

When: Thursday 2 April, 9:00 PM – 3:00 AM Where: The Precinct Hotel, 60 Swan Street, Cremorne Details: SUNDAYLICIOUS brings its signature party energy to an Easter Thursday night special at The Precinct Hotel. Six hours of music, dancing, and good vibes to launch the long weekend in style. Tickets: SUNDAYLICIOUS Easter on Eventbrite

🍫 Chocolate High Tea Buffet

When: Saturday 28 March, 2:00 PM Where: Stamford Plaza Melbourne, CBD Details: Indulge in a chocolate lover's dream with a dedicated chocolate high tea buffet at the elegant Stamford Plaza. While this falls the weekend before Easter, it's the perfect way to kick off the Easter chocolate season in decadent fashion. Tickets: Chocolate High Tea Buffet on Eventbrite

👨‍🍳 Fisher & Paykel Easter Feast Masterclass

When: Saturday 14 March, 11:00 AM Where: e&s Chadstone Details: Get ahead of the Easter kitchen game with this cooking demonstration and masterclass. Learn how to prepare an impressive Easter feast using the latest cooking technology, with professional tips and tastings included. Tickets: Easter Feast Masterclass on Eventbrite

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Easter Egg Hunts for Kids {#easter-egg-hunts-for-kids}

Nothing says Easter like watching kids sprint across a park clutching a basket, desperately searching for chocolate eggs. Melbourne has some cracking options for 2026:

🥚 Macleod Village Easter Egg Hunt & Maker's Market 2026

When: Saturday 28 March, 9:00 AM Where: Macleod Shopping Village, Macleod Details: A community favourite in Melbourne's north-east. The Macleod Village Easter Egg Hunt combines a fantastic egg hunt for kids with a maker's market featuring local artisans, handmade goods, and treats. Arrive early — the eggs go fast! Tickets: Macleod Village Easter Egg Hunt on Eventbrite

🥚 Diamond Creek Easter Egg Hunt & Family Picnic

When: Saturday 28 March, 10:00 AM Where: Diamond Creek Regional Playspace, Diamond Creek Details: Pack a picnic blanket and head to Diamond Creek's beautiful regional playspace for a morning of egg hunting and family fun. The event features dedicated hunt zones for different age groups, ensuring toddlers aren't competing with speedy 10-year-olds. Bring your own picnic or grab food from on-site vendors. Tickets: Diamond Creek Easter Egg Hunt on Eventbrite

🥚 Easter Family Fun Day (Ascot Vale)

When: Saturday 4 April, 11:00 AM Where: 231–251 Mt Alexander Rd, Ascot Vale Details: This large-scale community event includes egg hunts as part of its wider family fun day program. Great for families who want egg hunting plus entertainment, food, and activities all in one location. Tickets: Easter Family Fun Day on Eventbrite

Tips for Easter Egg Hunts

• Arrive early. Popular hunts can draw hundreds of families. Get there at least 15–20 minutes before the start time to secure parking and a good spot.
• Bring a basket or bag. Some events provide them, but don't count on it — come prepared.
• Check age groups. The best hunts separate kids by age so it's fair for everyone. Ask before you go.
• Sun protection. Even in early April, Melbourne sun can be strong. Hats, sunscreen, and water bottles are essential.
• Allergy awareness. If your child has allergies, check with organisers about the chocolate brands used, or bring safe alternatives to swap.

Other Egg Hunt Options

Many local councils, churches, and community groups also run Easter egg hunts over the long weekend. Keep an eye on:

• Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne — often hosts Easter activities for families
• Werribee Open Range Zoo — combines egg hunts with animal encounters
• Alowyn Gardens (Yarra Glen) — a stunning garden setting for Easter activities
• Local council parks — check your local council's events page for neighbourhood hunts
• National Trust properties — Rippon Lea Estate and Como House often run Easter events

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Easter Markets & Shopping {#easter-markets--shopping}

Easter Markets

🛍️ Easter 2026 Market Stall — Sandhurst

When: Sunday 29 March, 10:00 AM Where: Sandarra Park Playground, Henderson Village, Sandhurst Details: A community Easter market in Melbourne's south-east growth corridor with local stallholders, Easter-themed goods, and family-friendly activities. More info: Easter 2026 Market Stall on Eventbrite

🛍️ Macleod Village Maker's Market

When: Saturday 28 March, 9:00 AM Where: Macleod Shopping Village Details: Runs alongside the Macleod Easter Egg Hunt (listed above). Browse handmade goods, artisan foods, jewellery, homewares, and Easter treats from local makers. More info: Macleod Village Easter Egg Hunt and Maker's Market on Eventbrite

🛍️ SUNDAY Fitzroy Market

When: Sundays from March through April 2026 (multiple dates) Where: Fitzroy Mills Market, Fitzroy Details: While not specifically Easter-themed, this popular Fitzroy market runs on Sundays throughout the Easter period. Expect vintage clothing, local design, art, food, and a vibrant Brunswick Street atmosphere. More info: SUNDAY Fitzroy Market on Eventbrite

Regular Markets Open Over Easter

Not all of Melbourne's beloved markets are open for the entire long weekend, so plan ahead:

Pro tip: Easter Saturday is your best bet for market shopping. Stock up on everything you need for the rest of the long weekend, including hot cross buns, seafood for Good Friday leftovers (or Easter Sunday lunch), and chocolates.

Easter Chocolate Shopping

Melbourne takes chocolate seriously, and Easter is peak season. Hit up these local chocolatiers:

• Koko Black — Multiple locations including Royal Arcade, Chadstone, and South Wharf. Their Easter range is always stunning.
• Mörk Chocolate — North Melbourne's craft chocolate pioneers do Easter eggs and bunnies their way.
• Josophan's Fine Chocolates — Available at markets and online, handmade and beautiful.
• Haigh's Chocolates — The Collins Street store is an Easter institution. Get in early — popular items sell out.
• Ganache Chocolate — South Yarra's award-winning chocolatier with show-stopping Easter creations.
• Burch & Purchese Sweet Studio — South Yarra's boundary-pushing sweets studio creates Easter pieces that are basically edible art.

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Easter Dining — Good Friday Seafood, Brunch & High Tea {#easter-dining}

Easter is one of Melbourne's biggest dining weekends. Here's where to eat across the long weekend.

Good Friday Seafood 🐟

Good Friday and seafood go hand in hand. Melbourne's restaurants pull out all the stops with special menus. Here are your options:

A Gilded Good Friday Seafood Supper — The Savoy Hotel

When: Friday 3 April, 6:00 PM Where: The Savoy Hotel, Little Collins Street, Melbourne CBD Details: An opulent seafood feast in one of Melbourne's most atmospheric heritage hotels. Multi-course seafood menu with matched wines. Book: Eventbrite

Other Top Good Friday Seafood Options

• Steer Bar & Grill — South Wharf's waterfront spot typically runs a Good Friday seafood special with views of the Yarra.
• Claypots Seafood Bar — St Kilda's legendary evening-only seafood spot. No bookings — just queue up and it's worth it.
• The Atlantic — Crown Melbourne's premium seafood restaurant is a Good Friday favourite. Book well in advance.
• Donovans — St Kilda Beach institution. Their Good Friday seafood menu with beach views is hard to beat.
• Supernormal — Flinders Lane's modern Asian-leaning restaurant often features special seafood dishes for Good Friday.
• Fish by Mike Turner — Albert Park's neighbourhood seafood restaurant offers excellent Good Friday takeaway platters.

Planning to cook at home? Head to the Queen Victoria Market or South Melbourne Market on Easter Saturday to stock up on fresh fish and shellfish. Or pre-order from the Prahran Market fish vendors. Many fishmongers offer pre-order Easter platters — just call ahead.

Easter Brunch 🥐

Bottomless Brunch: Easter Edition — Novotel Glen Waverley

When: Sunday 5 April, 10:30 AM Where: Novotel Melbourne Glen Waverley Details: Kick off Easter Sunday with bottomless drinks and a festive brunch spread. Book: Eventbrite

Melbourne's Best Easter Brunch Spots

Melbourne is brunch capital of Australia, and Easter Sunday brunch is a highlight. Some top spots to consider:

• Higher Ground — Little Bourke Street's multi-level brunch icon. Expect queues but worth it.
• Lune Croissanterie — Fitzroy's world-famous croissants. Easter-themed pastries are a must.
• Proud Mary — Collingwood's specialty coffee and brunch institution.
• Hobba — Prahran's community-minded café serves excellent Easter-weekend brunch.
• Two Birds One Stone — Hawthorn East café known for inventive dishes.
• Touchwood — Richmond's spacious and family-friendly brunch destination.

Booking tip: Easter brunch is extremely popular. Book at least a week ahead for sit-down restaurants, or arrive before 9am for walk-in cafés to avoid long waits.

Easter High Tea 🫖

Chocolate High Tea Buffet — Stamford Plaza Melbourne

When: Saturday 28 March, 2:00 PM Where: Stamford Plaza Melbourne, CBD Details: A sumptuous chocolate-themed high tea buffet at one of Melbourne's grand hotels. Think chocolate fondant, truffles, pralines, chocolate tarts, and all manner of cocoa indulgence alongside classic savoury high tea items. Book: Eventbrite

Other High Tea Options

• The Langham Melbourne — Their regular high tea is legendary; expect an Easter-themed version with chocolate eggs and hot cross bun scones.
• The Windsor Hotel — Melbourne's grandest hotel offers a traditional high tea in the Lounge.
• Hopetoun Tea Rooms — Block Arcade's iconic tea room. Historic, charming, and perfect for Easter.
• InterContinental Melbourne — Rialto building elegance with Easter high tea specials.

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Day Trips for the Long Weekend {#day-trips-for-the-long-weekend}

Four days off means time to explore beyond the city. Here are Melbourne's best Easter long weekend getaway options:

🌊 Great Ocean Road

Distance from Melbourne: 100km to Torquay (starting point), 260km to the Twelve Apostles Drive time: 1.5–3.5 hours depending on destination

The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia's most iconic drives, and a long weekend gives you enough time to do it properly. Key stops include:

• Torquay & Bells Beach — Start with a surf town coffee and watch the waves at Australia's most famous beach
• Lorne — Charming seaside village with excellent cafés, restaurants, and the Erskine Falls walk nearby
• Apollo Bay — A quieter coastal town with stunning beaches and access to the Otway Ranges
• The Twelve Apostles — The limestone stacks are unmissable. Sunrise or sunset visits avoid the biggest crowds
• Port Campbell — Base yourself here for the best access to the Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and London Bridge

Easter tips: The Great Ocean Road gets very busy over the Easter long weekend. Leave Melbourne early (before 7am) on Thursday evening or Friday morning to beat traffic. Consider staying overnight in Lorne or Apollo Bay rather than doing a day trip — it's much more enjoyable without the return drive fatigue.

🍷 Yarra Valley

Distance from Melbourne: 60–80km Drive time: 1–1.5 hours

The Yarra Valley is Melbourne's premier wine region and is absolutely stunning in autumn. Easter in the Yarra Valley means:

• Winery visits — Rochford, TarraWarra, Oakridge, De Bortoli, Yering Station, and dozens more. Many offer Easter-weekend lunch menus.
• Healesville Sanctuary — This native wildlife park is a perfect family Easter outing. Open all Easter weekend.
• Yarra Valley Chocolaterie — Extremely popular at Easter. Free chocolate tastings, a chocolate shop, and café. Expect crowds but it's worth the visit.
• TarraWarra Museum of Art — World-class gallery set in the rolling hills. A great rainy-day backup option.
• Warburton Redwood Forest — An otherworldly grove of towering California Redwood trees, perfect for a morning walk.
• Hot air ballooning — Companies like Global Ballooning offer sunrise flights over the valley. Book well ahead for Easter.

Easter tips: The Yarra Valley Chocolaterie will be packed over Easter weekend. Go early on Easter Saturday or choose a weekday if your holidays extend. Wine tastings are best booked in advance; many cellar doors do "by appointment" on public holidays.

🐧 Phillip Island

Distance from Melbourne: 140km Drive time: 1.5–2 hours

Phillip Island is a family favourite, and the Easter weekend is peak season:

• Penguin Parade — Watch the Little Penguins waddle ashore at sunset. This is a ticketed attraction and sells out over Easter. Book online in advance.
• Churchill Island Heritage Farm — Working farm with heritage buildings. Great for kids, especially with Easter-themed activities often running.
• The Nobbies — Dramatic clifftop boardwalk with views across to Seal Rocks and its Australian fur seal colony.
• Koala Conservation Centre — Elevated boardwalks through bushland where koalas lounge in the trees above you.
• A Maze'N Things — Family fun park with mazes, puzzles, and illusion rooms.
• San Remo fish and chips — A Good Friday tradition. Queue at one of the fish shops on the San Remo foreshore before crossing the bridge to Phillip Island.

Easter tips: The Penguin Parade Penguins Plus and Underground Viewing experiences sell out weeks before Easter. Book ASAP. Traffic on the Bass Highway can be heavy — consider leaving Melbourne early or staying overnight on the island.

🛁 Daylesford & Hepburn Springs

Distance from Melbourne: 110km Drive time: 1.5 hours

Victoria's spa country is the ultimate relaxation escape for the long weekend:

• Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa — Soak in natural mineral springs. Book treatments well ahead for Easter weekend.
• Lake Daylesford — Scenic walking trails around the lake, perfect for a morning stroll.
• The Convent Gallery — Art, gardens, and a café in a stunning heritage building.
• Daylesford Sunday Market — If you're there on Easter Sunday, the Daylesford Sunday Market at the historic train station is a classic.
• Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens — Gorgeous autumn colours in early April. Free to visit.
• Local cafés and restaurants — Daylesford punches well above its weight for dining. Try Kazuki's, The Farmers Arms, or Cliffy's Emporium.

Easter tips: Accommodation in Daylesford books out months in advance for Easter. If you haven't booked yet, consider a day trip instead. The town's restaurants will be busy — book ahead for dinner.

Other Day Trip Ideas

• Mornington Peninsula — Hot springs, wineries, and coastal walks. Peninsula Hot Springs is a must-book.
• Ballarat — Historic goldfields town with Sovereign Hill (especially good for families).
• Bendigo — Art gallery, historic tram rides, and excellent food scene. The Easter Fair has been a Bendigo tradition for over 150 years.
• Wilsons Promontory — Victoria's most beloved national park. Camping spots book out months ahead, but day trips to Tidal River and Squeaky Beach are possible.
• Dandenong Ranges — Puffing Billy Railway, gardens, and cosy cafés. Perfect autumn atmosphere.

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Free Things to Do Easter Weekend {#free-things-to-do-easter-weekend}

You don't need to spend a fortune to enjoy Easter in Melbourne. Here are our favourite free activities:

Arts & Culture

• NGV International & NGV Australia (Ian Potter Centre) — Both galleries are free to enter (special exhibitions may have a fee). Check Easter weekend hours.
• ACCA (Australian Centre for Contemporary Art) — Free admission. Thought-provoking exhibitions in Southbank.
• Street art walk — Melbourne's laneways are an open-air gallery. Hosier Lane, AC/DC Lane, Duckboard Place, and Centre Place are the highlights.
• State Library Victoria — Free entry, stunning architecture, and regular exhibitions. The La Trobe Reading Room dome is breathtaking.

Parks & Gardens

• Royal Botanic Gardens — Free entry. Gorgeous in autumn with changing foliage, peaceful lakeside walks, and the new Children's Garden.
• Fitzroy Gardens — Home to Captain Cook's Cottage, the Conservatory, and beautiful elm-lined pathways.
• Edinburgh Gardens — Fitzroy/North Fitzroy's favourite park. Bring a picnic, kick a footy, and soak up the community vibe.
• Albert Park Lake — Walk or cycle around the lake (3.5km loop), watch the black swans, and enjoy views back to the city skyline.

Outdoors & Active

• Bike ride along the Yarra Trail — The Main Yarra Trail stretches from Southbank to Warrandyte. Flat, scenic, and family-friendly.
• Merri Creek Trail — Explore Melbourne's northern suburbs along this beautiful creek trail, from Northcote to Coburg and beyond.
• Brighton Beach Boxes — The iconic bathing boxes make for a classic Melbourne photo op. Free to visit and walk the beach.
• St Kilda Beach & Foreshore — Walk along the pier, spot penguins at dusk (free!), browse the St Kilda Esplanade Market (Sundays — check if running on Easter Sunday).
• The Tan — Melbourne's famous running/walking track around the Royal Botanic Gardens. A 3.8km loop with great city views.
• 1000 Steps Walk (Kokoda Trail) — Dandenong Ranges. A challenging but rewarding bush walk. Free entry, just bring water and sturdy shoes.

Kid-Friendly Free Activities

• Federation Square — Often hosts free family activities over Easter. Check the Fed Square website closer to the date.
• Ian Potter Children's Garden — Inside the Royal Botanic Gardens. Free entry. Designed for kids to explore, dig, splash, and discover nature.
• Collingwood Children's Farm — Small entry fee, but the surrounding Abbotsford Convent grounds are free to explore.
• Backyard Easter egg hunt — The classic! Hide eggs around the garden and let the kids loose. Cost: one bag of chocolate eggs from the supermarket.

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Church Services {#church-services}

For those observing Easter as a religious occasion, Melbourne's churches hold special services throughout the weekend:

St Patrick's Cathedral (Catholic)

Location: Cathedral Place, East Melbourne Services:

• Holy Thursday (2 April): Mass of the Lord's Supper, typically 7:30 PM
• Good Friday (3 April): Passion of the Lord, typically 3:00 PM; Stations of the Cross
• Easter Vigil (Saturday 4 April): typically 7:30 PM
• Easter Sunday (5 April): Multiple Masses including 8:00 AM, 10:30 AM, and 12:00 PM Website: cam.org.au

St Paul's Cathedral (Anglican)

Location: Flinders Lane / Swanston Street, Melbourne CBD Services:

• Good Friday: Liturgy of the Passion, typically 10:00 AM
• Easter Eve/Saturday: Easter Vigil, typically 8:00 PM
• Easter Sunday: Festival Eucharist, typically 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM Website: stpaulscathedral.org.au

Scots' Church (Presbyterian)

Location: Collins Street, Melbourne CBD Services: Good Friday service (typically 10:30 AM) and Easter Sunday services Website: scotschurch.com

Wesley Church (Uniting)

Location: Lonsdale Street, Melbourne CBD Services: Good Friday and Easter Sunday services. Wesley often features special music programs for Easter. Website: wesleychurch.org.au

St Michael's Uniting Church

Location: Collins Street, Melbourne CBD Services: Easter services throughout the weekend, including a popular Easter Sunday service. Website: stmichaels.org.au

Hillsong Melbourne

Location: Multiple campuses across Melbourne Services: Easter services typically held Saturday evening and Sunday morning with contemporary worship. Website: hillsong.com/melbourne

Greek Orthodox — Annunciation of Our Lady

Location: Victoria Street, West Melbourne Services: Greek Orthodox Easter (Pascha) may fall on a different date to Western Easter in some years. In 2026, check with the parish for service times, which typically include a midnight Resurrection service on Saturday night.

Note: Service times listed above are typical but may vary. Check individual church websites closer to Easter for confirmed 2026 schedules.

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Weather Expectations {#weather-expectations}

Easter 2026 falls in early April, which is solidly into Melbourne's autumn. Here's what to expect weather-wise:

Typical Early April Weather in Melbourne

What to Wear

Early April in Melbourne requires the classic Melbourne layering approach:

• Morning: Start with a light jacket or jumper — mornings can be cool, especially after daylight saving ends.
• Midday: T-shirt weather if the sun's out and it's 20°C+. But always carry a layer.
• Evening: Jacket or light coat essential. Temperatures drop noticeably after sunset.
• Rain contingency: Always have an umbrella handy. Melbourne can go from sunny to showery in 20 minutes.

The Four-Seasons-in-One-Day Factor

Melbourne's reputation for unpredictable weather is well-earned. In April, you could get:

• A sunny 24°C day perfect for picnics and egg hunts
• A cool, blustery 15°C day with rain showers
• Both of the above, on the same day

Bottom line: Check the Bureau of Meteorology forecast the week before Easter and pack for options. Layers, layers, layers.

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Transport & Getting Around {#transport--getting-around}

Public transport operates on modified schedules during the Easter long weekend. Here's what you need to know:

Public Transport Timetables

Key Public Transport Tips

• Myki is still required. No free travel on public holidays (unless a specific promotion is running — check PTV closer to the date).
• Services are less frequent on Good Friday and Easter Monday. Allow extra time for connections, especially on train lines.
• Night Network services typically don't run on public holiday nights. Check PTV for Easter-specific night services.
• Tram routes in the CBD Free Tram Zone still operate on public holidays, but on reduced frequency.
• V/Line regional trains operate on modified timetables. If you're taking the V/Line to the Great Ocean Road (Geelong line), Ballarat, or Bendigo, check departure times on ptv.vic.gov.au.

Driving

• Expect traffic. The Friday before Easter and the Monday afternoon/evening return are the worst traffic periods. Key congestion points:
  • West Gate Freeway / Princes Freeway (Great Ocean Road traffic)
  • Monash Freeway (Phillip Island and Gippsland traffic)
  • Eastern Freeway / Maroondah Highway (Yarra Valley traffic)
  • Calder Freeway (Daylesford and Bendigo traffic)
• Double demerit points do not apply in Victoria (that's a NSW/QLD thing), but police presence is increased over the Easter long weekend. Stick to the speed limit.
• Fuel up on Thursday. Petrol stations may have reduced hours or longer queues over the weekend.

Ride Share & Taxis

Uber, DiDi, and other ride-share services operate as normal, but expect surge pricing on Thursday night, Saturday night, and any major event times. Taxis are available but harder to find on busy nights.

Parking

• CBD metered parking is typically free on public holidays (Good Friday, Easter Saturday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday). Check individual meters and council signage.
• Shopping centre parking varies — if the centre is closed (Good Friday), the car park may also be closed or restricted.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) {#faq}

When is Easter 2026?

Easter 2026 runs from Good Friday 3 April to Easter Monday 6 April, giving Melbourne a four-day long weekend. Easter Sunday falls on 5 April.

What are the public holidays for Easter 2026 in Victoria?

All four days are public holidays in Victoria: Good Friday (3 April), Easter Saturday (4 April), Easter Sunday (5 April), and Easter Monday (6 April).

Is everything closed on Good Friday in Melbourne?

Not everything, but most retail shops and shopping centres are closed due to Victoria's restricted trading laws. Cafés, restaurants, petrol stations, convenience stores, and most tourist attractions remain open. Hospitality is booming on Good Friday — especially for seafood.

Are supermarkets open on Good Friday?

Most major supermarkets (Coles, Woolworths, Aldi) are closed on Good Friday. Some small independent grocers and convenience stores may be open. If you need supplies, stock up on Thursday.

Does daylight saving end on Easter Sunday 2026?

Yes! At 3:00 AM on Sunday 5 April 2026, clocks go back one hour to 2:00 AM (AEDT → AEST). You gain an extra hour of sleep. Most phones and devices update automatically, but check your analogue clocks.

Is the Queen Victoria Market open over Easter?

The QVM is open on Easter Saturday (normal Saturday hours). It is closed on Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday. Easter Saturday is your best day to visit.

Are restaurants open on Good Friday in Melbourne?

Yes! Many restaurants are open on Good Friday, and it's one of the busiest dining days of the year. Many offer special seafood menus. Booking is strongly recommended as popular venues fill up fast.

What's the weather like in Melbourne at Easter 2026?

Easter falls in early April, which is autumn in Melbourne. Expect temperatures of around 18–22°C during the day and 11–14°C at night. Rain is possible, so bring layers and an umbrella. Classic Melbourne — dress for four seasons in one day.

Are there Easter egg hunts in Melbourne?

Yes! There are several organised Easter egg hunts in 2026, including the Macleod Village Easter Egg Hunt (28 March), Diamond Creek Easter Egg Hunt (28 March), and the Easter Family Fun Day in Ascot Vale (4 April). Many local councils, parks, and churches also hold egg hunts. Check our Easter Egg Hunts section for details and booking links.

Do I need to book restaurants for Easter in Melbourne?

Yes, absolutely. Easter is one of Melbourne's peak dining weekends. Book at least a week ahead for Good Friday seafood dinners, Easter brunches, and high teas. Walk-in cafés will have long waits, especially on Easter Sunday.

Is public transport running on Easter in Melbourne?

Yes, but on reduced schedules. Good Friday and Easter Monday operate on Sunday/public holiday timetables with less frequent services. Easter Saturday runs normal Saturday services. Check PTV for specific route timetables.

Are there any Easter events in Melbourne for adults (not just kids)?

Plenty! Melbourne's Easter nightlife includes the EKHAYA Easter Weekend Bash at Bourke Street Courtyard, Rave in the Church 2.0 at Mission to Seafarers, SUNDAYLICIOUS Easter Thursday Night at The Precinct Hotel, and the EMO Easter Good Friday Eve at Deluxe Bar. There are also foodie events like the Good Friday Seafood Supper at The Savoy Hotel and Bottomless Brunch: Easter Edition at Novotel Glen Waverley.

Can I get a refund on penalty-rate surcharges at restaurants?

No. Victorian businesses are legally entitled to charge a surcharge (typically 10–15%) on public holidays to cover penalty rates. This is standard practice and will usually be noted on menus or at the entrance. It's not a tip — it's a cost recovery for paying staff at the legally required public holiday rates.

Where can I buy hot cross buns in Melbourne?

Hot cross buns are available from supermarkets (from as early as January, controversially), but for the best artisan options try:

• Baker D. Chirico — Multiple locations, outstanding traditional and flavoured buns
• Baker Bleu — Carlton and Elsternwick, known for premium pastries
• Lune Croissanterie — Not traditional buns but their Easter pastries are next level
• Noisette — Balwyn and Canterbury, exceptional bakery
• Your local bakery — Melbourne is full of brilliant independent bakeries. Ask your neighbourhood for recommendations.

Is parking free in Melbourne CBD over Easter?

Metered street parking in the Melbourne CBD is generally free on public holidays (Good Friday, Easter Saturday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday). However, always check the individual parking meter or sign, as clearway and tow-away restrictions may still apply. Private car parks charge their own rates regardless of public holidays.

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Final Tips for Easter 2026 in Melbourne

1. Plan ahead. Book restaurants, accommodation, and ticketed events early — Easter is peak season.
2. Stock up Thursday. With Good Friday closures, do your grocery shopping on Thursday 2 April.
3. Remember the clock change. Clocks go back one hour on Easter Sunday morning. Set a phone alarm (it auto-updates) rather than relying on analogue clocks.
4. Layer up. April weather in Melbourne is unpredictable. Bring options.
5. Check trading hours. Don't assume anything is open without checking first, especially on Good Friday and Easter Sunday.
6. Be patient. Easter is busy. Traffic, restaurant queues, and crowded attractions are part of the deal. Leave early, book ahead, and go with the flow.
7. Support local. Use the long weekend to explore Melbourne's independent shops, cafés, and markets rather than defaulting to big chains (which are mostly closed anyway!).

Have a wonderful Easter, Melbourne! 🐣

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Last updated: February 2026. Event details and trading hours may change. Always confirm directly with venues and event organisers before attending. For the latest public transport information, visit ptv.vic.gov.au.

More Melbourne event guides: amirbrooks.com.au