Uncover the night: Melbourne Museum's monthly Nocturnal series returns
Get set for another year of nighttime exploration as Nocturnal: Museum After Dark returns in 2025 with a series of alluring after-hours events which blend art, science, history and culture in a unique adults-only experience.
From February to December, each themed night serves up fascinating expert talks and tours, fine tunes, immersive exhibitions and hands-on activities, all within the iconic Melbourne Museum setting. Whether you’re a night owl or simply curious, looking for new ways to experience Melbourne Museum’s cultural offerings, Nocturnal 2025 has something for everyone.
February 13 – Heart to Heart – Chemistry of Connection
Revel in the last burst of summer, celebrating love in all its forms – platonic, romantic and everything in between – with the ultimate date-night this Galentine’s and Valentine’s Eve. Fall in love with thought-provoking talks, tours and interactive demonstrations exploring the physics of attraction, animal mating rituals and heart-felt stories from Museums Victoria’s collection. Connect with like-minded friends or lovers at museum-inspired speed dating, lose yourself in a mini-silent disco with playlists curated by No Lights No Lycra, and enjoy a DJ set from PBS’ Claire Dickson from Good Company. Add on a discounted ticket to experience Melbourne Museum’s newest interactive exhibit Antopia, highlighting the fascinating world of communication and the chemistry of connection in the ant world.
March 6 – Subterranea – Hidden Worlds Beneath Our Feet
This month’s Nocturnal event takes you underground. Subterranea invites guests to explore tunnels, burrows and caves with its focus on the mysterious networks that lie beneath us. Delve into the underworld of Melbourne’s historic cess pits, sewers and underworld figures. Catch a talk from Museums Victoria Research Institute palaeontologist Tim Ziegler on the wonders of subterranean cave systems and discover the astounding fossil record of prehistoric megafauna preserved within. Also included is an electrifying DJ set from DJ Mothafunk, blending everything from dance anthems to deep grooves that will keep you moving all night. Plus, a thrilling dino-inspired drag bingo with the fabulous Avis Loren and the fierce Max the Drag Queen. And don’t miss your last chance to see Antopia – snap up a discounted ticket and shrink down to the size of an ant to experience a day in the life of these hardworking little critters.
April 10 – Cracked Up – Laughter, Tales & the Comedy of Life
In collaboration with Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Cracked Up promises an evening packed with laughter and funny stories from the Museum's collection. Explore decades of hilarious donation requests and un-hinged public enquiries from the Museum archives, enjoy museum trivia hosted by comedian Tom Noble, improvised performances from comedians Rose Callahan, Hannah Camilleri and more, plus a DJ set from DJ Gay Dad. This event is presented in partnership with The A List and partially funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services; tickets are available for people in the neurodivergent community by emailing [email protected].
Get ready for more: Check out the full 2025 Nocturnal line-up here
Program breakdown:
May 8 – Custom Made: Artistry and design take centre stage, exploring everything from taxidermy to couture fashion.
June 12 – Space Odyssey: Journey through the wonders of astronomy, celestial navigation and the legends of the stars.
July 10 – NAIDOC Week: A celebration of First Peoples’ culture.
August 14 – Force of Nature: National Science Week with a focus on the wonders of our natural world.
September 11 – Myths & Legends: A night of stories, legendary creatures and ancient myths.
October 9 – Action-Reaction: Explore protest, activism and the physics of change.
November 13 – Unearthed: A focus on archaeology, palaeontology and new discoveries.
December 11 – All That Glitters: A festive celebration of biofluorescence, gemstones and the science of light.
For further information visit the Melbourne Museum website.
Nocturnal 2025
Open: 13 February 2025
Location: Melbourne Museum, 11 Nicholson Street Carlton
Tickets: On sale at Melbourne Museum and online here
Adult $32 / Concession $20 / Member $27