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Top Things to Do at Moomba Festival 2026 with Kids

Moomba Festival 2026 returns across the Labour Day long weekend with five days of free family entertainment, thrilling rides, live performances, water sports, and iconic Melbourne traditions. Held along the banks of the Yarra River in the heart of the city, Moomba is Australia’s largest free community festival and one of the best family events in Melbourne.

Running from Thursday 5 March to Monday 9 March 2026, the festival once again transforms the city with carnival fun, outdoor entertainment, fireworks, and activities for all ages.

Whether you are planning a family day out, looking for free things to do in Melbourne with kids, or visiting the city over the long weekend, Moomba Festival 2026 offers something for everyone.

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Moomba Festival 2026 Highlights for Families

Top Things to Do at Moomba Festival 2026 with Kids
Image:Image: Moomba Festival, Moomba Parade

Moomba Parade — Melbourne’s Iconic Family Tradition

Melburnians’ beloved Moomba Parade returns in 2026 with larger-than-life floats, vibrant dance troupes, community performance groups and a special appearance from the Moomba Monarchs. A festival tradition since 1955, the parade brings colour, music, movement and energy to the city, making it one of the most popular family events of the long weekend.

The parade begins near the Shrine of Remembrance, travels along Birdwood Avenue and finishes at Linlithgow Avenue, with thousands of spectators lining the route each year, so arriving early is recommended to secure a good viewing spot.

This year’s parade features a diverse lineup of participants, including cultural groups, community organisations, emergency services, dance schools and performers such as Ambulance Victoria Pipes and Drums, Fire Rescue Victoria, CMS Lion & Dragon Dance Team, Darebin City Brass, Japan Club of Victoria and many more.

Date: Monday, 9 March 2026
Time: From 10:45 am
Location: The Parade starts at the Shrine of Remembrance, runs along Birdwood Avenue and finishes at Linlithgow Avenue.
Price: Free

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Top Things to Do at Moomba Festival 2026 with Kids
Image: Image: Moomba Festival, Birdman Rally

Birdman Rally — Fun, Chaos and Big Laughs

A Moomba classic, the Birdman Rally sees brave participants launch homemade flying machines into the river for charity — with unpredictable results and plenty of entertainment for spectators. These competitors don’t hold back, they arrive ready to compete, bringing impressive sportsmanship, creative engineering, and aerodynamic ambition to the challenge. Expect to see entries from Sammy J (Moomba Monarch), The Crimson Warrior, The Financial Crash, Harry the Hirer, The Very Grumpy Caterpillar and many more daring designs take flight.

Date: Sunday 8 March 2026
Time: From 11 am
Location: Yarra River
Price: Free

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Top Things to Do at Moomba Festival 2026 with Kids
Image: Moomba Carnival

Moomba Carnival — Rides and Games for All Ages

The Moomba Carnival features more than 30 rides and attractions, from family-friendly options for younger children to adrenaline rides for teens and adults. Carnival games and sideshow entertainment make this a highlight for many families.

Dates: 5–9 March 2026
Locations: North Carnival, South Carnival & Kids Carnival
Tickets: Ride passes and coupons available for purchase. Ride Coupons can be purchased from any ticket box at the Moomba Festival. Coupons are valued at $4 each and can be redeemed at any carnival ride, amusement or game at the 2026 Moomba Festival. Thursday Ride Pass – Get unlimited rides from only $50.

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Image: Moomba Maters Water Sports

Moomba Masters Water Sports

Watch world-class waterskiing, wakeboarding and high-energy demonstrations from elite athletes competing on the river. The Moomba Masters is internationally recognised and always draws big crowds.

Dates: 5–9 March 2026
Location: Yarra River
Price: Free

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Image: Image: Moomba Festival Skate, BMX and Scooter Competition

Skate, BMX and Scooter Competitions

Riverslide Skate Park comes alive with competitions, demonstrations and community participation events showcasing top Australian riders.

Dates: 5–9 March 2026
Location: Riverslide Skate Park
Price: Free

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Image: Moomba Festival Fireworks

Nightly Fireworks

Each evening, families can stay after sunset to watch the Moomba fireworks light up the Melbourne skyline, with displays scheduled for approximately 9 pm along the river precinct.

The fireworks are one of the festival’s most popular highlights and a great way to end a day of rides, shows and entertainment with the kids.

Moomba Festival 2026 FAQs for Families

When is Moomba Festival 2026?
Thursday 5 March to Monday 9 March 2026 (Labour Day long weekend).

Where is Moomba held?
Along the Yarra River precinct including Alexandra Gardens, Birrarung Marr and surrounding city areas.

Is Moomba suitable for young children?
Yes. There are many activities designed specifically for children including rides, workshops, performances and play zones.

Are there free activities?
Yes. Most entertainment, shows, fireworks, movies and competitions are free. Carnival rides require payment.

Is the festival accessible?
Yes. Pathways are stroller and wheelchair friendly, with accessible viewing areas available.

Is parking available?
Limited parking is nearby. Public transport is strongly recommended due to road closures.

Plan Your Visit to Moomba Festival 2026

If you are searching for family-friendly events in Melbourne, free things to do with kids, or Labour Day weekend activities, Moomba Festival is one of the top annual events to experience.

For the full program and updates, visit the official Moomba Festival website.

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We try our best to provide accurate information on kid-friendly events around Victoria but do recommend parents check details directly to confirm dates, times, prices as some details may be subject to change.

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