Hi Reader

If that subject line gave you a small jolt of panic, I’m here to help.

Mother’s Day is next Sunday 10 May, and whether you’re shopping for Mum, a grandmother, a mother-in-law or any other special person in your life, we’ve pulled together some genuinely lovely ideas — from Melbourne brunch spots still taking bookings to handmade jewellery and a portrait session she’ll treasure long after the day is over.

Beyond that, there’s plenty more going on this weekend — including something worth knowing if you’re planning any family outings this month. Public transport across Victoria is now completely free until 31 May 2026, covering metropolitan Melbourne and regional V/Line services.

And from 1 June through to December, fares drop to half price!

It’s a great excuse to get out and explore, and we’ve got twelve events across Melbourne and beyond to help you do exactly that.

Happy reading — and happy planning. 💐

Joyce xx

P.S. If Mother’s Day isn’t something you’d like to see in your inbox right now, that’s completely okay. Opt out of Mother’s Day content here and we’ll keep it out of next week’s issue for you.

SPECIAL OFFER: $79 Cirque du Soleil – KOOZA tickets for 79 hours only!

Be swept away by a world of thrills, chills and edge-of-your-seat surprises.

One of Cirque du Soleil’s most daring touring productions, KOOZA takes audiences on a thrilling emotional ride with whimsical characters, lavish costuming, hilarious clowning and nail-biting acrobatics performed live under the iconic Big Top at Flemington Racecourse, from 20 May 2026.

Hurry! The $79 ticket offer is only on until midnight Monday 4 May.

🌟 Featured Event

​Classic Kids: Beethoven’s Gaming Quest (Saturday 9 May) What if Beethoven wrote a video game score? An interactive MSO kids’ concert at Hamer Hall — relaxed performance also available. 📍 Melbourne CBD

🗓️ Melbourne CBD ➝ See More

​Free Comic Book Day (Saturday 2 May) Free comics, kids’ showbags, a costume contest and a family-only first hour for children under 12. 📍 Melbourne CBD

​NGV Let’s Party (Daily until Sunday 3 May) Final weekend! Kids explore spectacular fashion, hit the dancefloor and make their own party accessories. 📍 Melbourne CBD

🗓️ Melbourne NORTH ➝ See More ​

​Candlelight Ballet: Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake & More (Saturday 2 May) Iconic ballet music performed live by candlelight in a stunning historic venue — magical for the whole family. 📍 Abbotsford

​Melbourne Water Lantern Festival (Saturday 2 – Sunday 3 May) A joyful, family-friendly celebration of light and community as glowing lanterns set sail on the water. 📍 Moonee Ponds

🗓️ Melbourne SOUTH ➝ See More ​

​Mahasuara Rhythms Festival (Saturday 2 May) A free street festival with live music from Dangdut to Bollywood, cultural dance and Asian street food. 📍 Prahran

​Hobsons Bay Wetlands Free Guided Walk (Sunday 3 May) A volunteer-led walk through Laverton Creek Estuary, followed by the Truganina Explosives Reserve Open Day. 📍 Altona Meadows

🗓️ Melbourne EAST ➝ See More ​

​Heroes & Monsters Children’s Concert (Saturday 2 May) A live orchestral adventure for kids featuring music from Star Wars, Peter and the Wolf, and more. 📍 Nunawading

​Kalorama Chestnut Festival (Sunday 3 May) A beloved community festival with family entertainment, craft stalls, live music and great food in the Dandenong Ranges. 📍 Kalorama

🗓️ Melbourne WEST ➝ See More ​

​City of Melton Night Market (Friday 1 May) A free night market with global street food, live music, cultural performances and family-friendly fun. 📍 Melton

​127th Lake Goldsmith Steam & Vintage Rally (Saturday 2 – Sunday 3 May) Over 65 display sheds, kids’ activities, blacksmithing, boiler tours and a daily grand parade across the full weekend. 📍 Lake Goldsmith