Daylight saving has officially kicked in, which means we're feeling refreshed, revved up and ready to go. Warmer weather, later nights and rooftop sunset tipples are on the horizon. There are plenty of festivals, shows and exhibitions, for those looking to get off the couch and make the most of their weekend, even though it isn't an extended one.
First and foremost, happy Nike Melbourne Marathon weekend! Whether you're running in a race, cheering your friends and family on, or are preparing yourself for an Instagram feed full of runners with their medals, it'll be absolutely everywhere this weekend.
If you want to bust out of the city, here are the best places near Melbourne to see gorgeous spring blooms – think roses, tulips and wildflowers.
If you'd rather an indoor activity, a High Cheese (a high tea/cheese hybrid) is taking over the Westin Melbourne. Our literal dream! Otherwise, we suggest attending the best-selling ballet, Dracula: Ballet at its Darkest.
Love Your Bookshop Day is also happening on Saturday October 10. Whether you're a bookworm, trying to get out of a reading rut or want to support your charming local bookshop, there are select stores around Melbourne hosting special events to celebrate. Ramona Books in Northcote is turning itself into "Ramona Pharma", with staff prescribing books for visitors' ailments before hosting an after-hours reading party, and Fino Books in Fitzroy North is running letter-writing and poetry workshops followed by an evening salon. For the full line-up, head here.
Want to get a little weird? Melbourne's Fringe Festival brings a wave of quirky, audacious and boundary-pushing performances to Melbourne's arts and culture scene.
Remember, you can always rely on our catch-all lists of Melbourne's best bars, restaurants, museums, parks and galleries, or consult our bucket list of the best things to do in Melbourne before you die.
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