Melbourne Royal Show 2025 Guide: When, Where, and What to Expect at Victoria’s Iconic Event

The Melbourne Royal Show 2025 is set to return bigger and more exciting than ever, bringing together Victoria’s much-loved traditions of agriculture, entertainment, and family fun. From livestock competitions and farm experiences to dazzling fireworks and over 400 showbags, this year’s event promises eleven days of unforgettable experiences at the Melbourne Showgrounds.

Melbourne Show 2025 Dates, Venue and Daily Schedule

The Melbourne Royal Show 2025 will be held from Thursday, 25 September to Sunday, 5 October at the Melbourne Showgrounds in Ascot Vale. Opening hours run daily from 9:30 am to 9:30 pm, with last entry at 8:45 pm.

The venue is just 15 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD, making it easily accessible by public transport and car. The Showgrounds have hosted the event for decades, cementing their role as the home of Victoria’s largest annual community celebration.

Getting to Melbourne Showgrounds

Reaching the Melbourne Showgrounds during the Melbourne Royal Show 2025 is convenient with special transport services and parking arrangements.

Public Transport Options

• Train: Dedicated event trains run to Melbourne Showgrounds Station on the Flemington Racecourse line.

• Tram: Route 57 tram stops at Showgrounds Village (Stop 32), a short walk from the main entrance.

• Bus: Routes 404 and 472 service stops along Epsom Road and Ascot Vale Road near the venue.

Parking Information

Parking is available at Flemington Racecourse with card-only payments. However, due to expected congestion, visitors are encouraged to use public transport for faster and stress-free access.

Melbourne Showbags and Rides

A major attraction each year is the incredible variety of Melbourne Showbags. In 2025, visitors can explore more than 400 showbags, ranging from popular confectionery bags to themed merchandise for children and collectors. The Bertie Beetle bag remains a cult favorite, only available at shows and limited events.

The carnival precinct will feature over 55 rides, ensuring thrills for all ages. From high-speed roller coasters to family-friendly classics, the rides are set to be a highlight of the Melbourne Royal Show 2025.

Animals, Agriculture and Farm Experiences

The agricultural heart of the Show continues to shine, offering a rare chance for city visitors to connect with Victoria’s farming traditions.

Highlights include:

• Livestock competitions featuring cattle, sheep, horses, alpacas, and poultry.

• The Sunrise Animal Nursery, where children can pat, feed, and learn about baby animals.

• Sheep shearing, milking, and egg collecting demonstrations.

• The Little Farmers Field, providing hands-on activities such as vegetable digging, apple picking, and tractor rides.

Poultry competitions are another tradition, judged on condition, carriage, and presentation, adding both charm and prestige to the agricultural showcases.

Food, Entertainment and Daily Highlights

The Grand Pavilion and Eat Street will offer a wide range of gourmet delights, from local produce to international cuisines. Visitors can enjoy tastings, cooking demonstrations, and food competitions judged as part of the Melbourne Royal Australian Food Awards.

Entertainment highlights include:

• Live performances from local artists and cultural groups.

• A nightly fireworks display choreographed to music.

• Family-focused attractions such as stage shows and interactive pavilions, including the new LEGO Playland Pavilion.

Melbourne Show tickets and Entry Guidelines

Tickets for the Melbourne Royal Show 2025 are only available online through the official website. A Flexi-Ticket option allows visitors to choose any one day of entry, but once scanned, it cannot be reused.

Entry Rules and Visitor Tips

• Visitors may bring sealed non-alcoholic drinks and food.

• Glass containers and alcohol are strictly prohibited.

• The Showgrounds are smoke- and vape-free.

• Lockers and phone-charging stations are available, starting from $10.

Membership packages from the Royal Agricultural Society Victoria provide additional benefits for frequent attendees, including ticket discounts and priority access.

Melbourne Showrides and Family Attractions

Rides remain one of the biggest attractions of the Show. Families can enjoy an entire precinct dedicated to Melbourne Showrides, catering to both thrill-seekers and young children. Classic favorites such as bumper cars, Ferris wheels, and roller coasters will return, alongside new rides for 2025.

With extended operating hours, visitors can enjoy the rides by day and under the lights at night, creating an atmosphere of excitement across the Showgrounds.

Melbourne Show 2025 Schedule and Daily Planning

Planning ahead ensures a smoother and more enjoyable visit. Each day of the Melbourne Show 2025 includes:

• Morning agricultural showcases and farm experiences.

• Afternoon stage performances, cooking demonstrations, and shopping at commercial pavilions.

• Evening fireworks and concerts to close the day.

Families are advised to arrive early to explore the full range of activities without rushing, particularly on weekends when crowd numbers are at their peak.

Melbourne Showgrounds: The Heart of the Event

The Melbourne Showgrounds have been home to the event since the 19th century, combining tradition with modern facilities. This versatile venue accommodates livestock, carnival rides, entertainment stages, and food markets all in one expansive location.

Its proximity to the city and tailored infrastructure make it the perfect site for hosting the Melbourne Royal Show 2025.

Melbourne Royal Show 2025 Guide Recap

The Melbourne Royal Show 2025 is more than just an exhibition—it is a celebration of Victoria’s agricultural roots, cultural diversity, and family fun. With Melbourne Showbags, Melbourne Showrides, and the vibrant atmosphere of the Melbourne Showgrounds, this year’s edition offers something for everyone, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong attendee.

The combination of tradition and innovation ensures the Melbourne Show 2025 schedule will captivate visitors and cement its status as one of Australia’s most iconic annual events.