More than 150,000 people are expected to descend on Melbourne’s Greek Precinct this weekend as the 38th Antipodes Festival transforms Lonsdale Street into a vibrant celebration of Hellenic culture, music and food.
Taking place on Saturday 28 February and Sunday 1 March between Swanston and Exhibition Streets, the festival remains one of Australia’s largest and longest-running cultural street events, reinforcing Melbourne’s reputation as home to one of the world’s most dynamic Greek diasporas.
This year’s program features international headline performers from Greece, including acclaimed vocalist Ioulia Karapataki, who will perform on Saturday evening, and influencer and entertainer Konstantina Touni, who takes the stage on Sunday night.
Across three stages, more than 500 performers will deliver over 90 hours of live entertainment, spanning traditional and contemporary Greek music and dance, youth showcases and large-scale street activations. Roving performers – including Ancient Spartans – will animate the precinct, while carnival rides and family-friendly attractions add to the festive atmosphere.
Food remains central to the Antipodes experience, with more than 100 food, market and community stalls lining Lonsdale Street. Cooking demonstrations will feature celebrity chef George Calombaris alongside Cathy Tsaples and other culinary figures, celebrating the depth and diversity of Greek cuisine.
A highlight of the weekend will again be the popular “Zorba ’Til You Drop” competition, where the last dancer standing wins flights to Greece – a spirited nod to the enduring energy of Greek celebration.
Now in its 38th year, the Antipodes Festival continues to bring generations of Greek Australians together in a highly visual and energetic public display of culture, language and heritage, while generating significant economic activity in Melbourne’s CBD.
The festival runs from 10am to 11pm on Saturday and 10am to 10pm on Sunday.
See full program here.
