Lifestyle

When the sun goes down, Fitzroy comes alive. Whether you’re up for a round of pool, a drink and a drawing session, live music or a memorable karaoke night, there’s something to head out for every evening of the week. From dazzling drag shows and open mic nights to salsa dancing and cocktails with jazz, this neighbourhood knows how to keep things lively after dark. Whatever your pace, you’ll find a bar stool, a dance floor or a quiet corner waiting. We’ve rounded up seven after-dark favourites to help you make the most of your nights — read on and try something new this week.

Melbourne Design Week is back from 15 to 25 May this year, with a dynamic program of talks, tours, exhibitions, installations and workshops taking place across the city. Presented by the NGV and Creative Victoria, the festival brings together designers, educators, thinkers and creatives to explore how design can shape a better future. This year’s theme, Design the World You Want, encourages designers to imagine how creativity can foster sustainability, repair and transformation.

Fitzroy pub façades, old Victorian windows and stories embedded in architecture, these are just some of the fragments that Melbourne artist Zory McGrath brings to life in her layered, expressive work. Her latest exhibition, Fragments of Urban Essence, runs from 8 to 25 May at Brunswick Street Gallery, with opening night celebrations on Friday, 9 May from 6 to 8 PM. Using recycled cardboard and textured surfaces, the series explores urban renewal, memory and the beauty found in overlooked corners of the built environment. Zory’s separate series on Fitzroy’s pubs, a tribute to the character and charm of these beloved spaces, is also available through the BSG store. She’ll be exhibiting alongside a diverse group of artists across the gallery’s May program.

There’s no better way to spend the ANZAC Day public holiday than with a local footy match in one of Melbourne’s most iconic parks. Luckily, Fitzroy boasts a standout local ground: the Brunswick Street Oval. Set in Edinburgh Gardens in Fitzroy North, this beloved oval is steeped in footy history and local pride. If you haven't yet soaked up some local footy here—cheering the team on from Hipster Hill, grabbing a snag from the BBQ, or joining the team huddle—then the ANZAC Day public holiday is the perfect time to check it out.

Brunswick Street has always had an unapologetic charm: creative, unpolished and full of character. Mornings start with the scent of espresso and fresh sourdough drifting through the air as locals ease into the day. As the day goes on, boutique stores, vintage shops and independent galleries invite exploration, offering everything from curated fashion to thought-provoking exhibitions. By evening, the street transforms. Bars hum with the clinking of cocktails, restaurants fill with the aroma of mouthwatering dishes, and live music spills onto the pavement. Whether you’re after a slow afternoon of people-watching, a night of margaritas or a live gig at a venue where legends once got their start, Brunswick Street delivers. With so much on, this guide offers just a glimpse of what’s on offer—there’s always more to discover.

Looking for the best barber shops Melbourne has to offer? You’re in luck, as Fitzroy is home to some of the finest spots for sharp cuts, fresh fades and expert grooming. Whether it’s a precise skin fade, a classic scissor cut or a hot towel shave, there’s a barber shop in Fitzroy that will suit your style. From old-school barbers with a social vibe to modern studios offering top-tier service with a drink on the side, the area has no shortage of skilled barbers. If you're after a barber Fitzroy locals swear by, our guide will help you cut to the chase with some great options.

Valentine’s Day is fast approaching, and Fitzroy has everything you need to make it memorable. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, picking up a thoughtful gift, indulging in a bit of self-pampering, or exploring its vibrant streets and hidden gems, Fitzroy offers endless possibilities. Falling on a Friday this year, Valentine’s Day gives you the perfect excuse to turn it into a weekend-long celebration of love in all its forms. From romantic dinners to boutique shopping, art galleries and more, here’s how to make the most of the day.

Home to cafes, restaurants, renowned galleries and independent boutiques, Fitzroy is a must-visit destination for foodies, art lovers and shopping enthusiasts. The neighbourhood’s mix of lively eateries, creative spaces, charming parks and unique small businesses invites exploration, offering a snapshot of Melbourne’s cultural charm. Whether you're sipping a morning coffee at a sunny outdoor table, perusing thought-provoking art exhibits, or discovering hidden gems in its many small businesses, Fitzroy offers an authentic Melbourne experience. Easily accessible via the 86 tram or a short walk from the city centre, its welcoming atmosphere ensures it leaves a lasting impression.