White Night Melbourne

Melbourne is putting on a mighty fine show on the 17^th February so make sure you clear your calendar. With over 100 events that celebrate culture and creativity over a 12-hour period, White Night Melbourne must truly be seen (and experienced) to be believed!

White Night Melbourne offers both free and ticketed happenings so check out the program to get a full understanding of what’s on offer and what you just HAVE to (and want to) see.

What

White Night (originally known as Nuit Blanche) began in Paris in 2002 and has been embraced and staged around the world ever since. Melbourne was the first Australian city to host the overnight festival in 2013. The dusk-til-dawn event showcases the city and all the wonderful offerings.

From light displays to street performances, fashion experiences to interactive art installations, and not to mention the abundance of music options – you will sure to be absolutely blown away. Just make sure you sleep well the night before so you can make the most of the overnighter.

Prepare to “see art take over the city’s buildings, streets, parks and laneways, every one a stage, every one a canvas, every one alight, alive and shining more brightly under the cover of darkness.”

Expect and be ready for the crowds – it’s a highly popular event! Each year, on average, the event in Melbourne’s CBD has welcomed some 500,000 people with open arms.

A lovely side note … the 2017 White Night Melbourne was named ‘Best Community Event’ at the Australian Event Awards. It’s that great!

When

17 February 2018 from 7pm – 7am at various locations around Melbourne.

Tip: It’s recommended that you start your adventure in the Carlton Gardens or the Alexandra and Queen Victoria Gardens and then make your way to the city. These northern and southern areas are home to some of the most outstanding pieces such as UKI: Utility Kinetic Insect, White Knight Messenger and the projections on the Royal Exhibition Building.

Take note

White Night is also shining its light in the following Victorian spots so you can continue your awe-inspiring experience around the state, if you please …

Ballarat: 17 March from 7pm – 2am

Bendigo: 1 September from 7pm – 2am

Geelong: 13 October from 7pm – 2am

Let’s embrace and celebrate our wonderful and abundant contemporary art scene, Victoria!

words by emily carstairs