Winter is nearly here, but the locals in Melbourne are definitely not hibernating. As a matter of fact, winter months are when some of the best art exhibits, cultural festivals, and other art events are held. This is why you’ll never run out of things to do and places to go to in Melbourne, whenever you need to drive away the winter blues in the coming months. Here are some ideas if you want to spend an arts-y weekend in Melbourne despite the chilly weather.

Get crafty at Rose Street Artists’ Market (year-round)

Welcome the winter season with a shopping spree at the Rose St. Artists’ Market. It is open year-round but offers a new collection of vendors, artists, and handmade products every season. You’re sure to find something new at the stalls along 60 Rose Street. From vintage pieces to quirky collectibles, you’ll get a good dose of local craft and artwork here. If you have an extra hour or two, discover and hone your artistic skills for a minimum fee at any of the market’s art workshops.

Travel back in time on your bike at the Walupka Woka Ride (May)

Are you a cyclist and a history buff? Then why not join the Walupka Woka Ride? Just two hours away from Melbourne, this spectacular event is a feast for the senses. As you bike across the gorgeous Winton Wetlands Reserve, spend the weekend discovering Aboriginal artefacts and learning more about the Yorta Yorta people. A spiritual, historical, and cultural landscape, the Wetlands was a traditional meeting place for various indigenous communities.

Think out of the box at Open House Melbourne (July)

Open House Melbourne is an event focused on buildings that tell stories about Melbourne’s past, present, and future. It’s packed with tours, workshops, and exhibits that’ll inspire you to appreciate architecture, good design, and unique cityscape ideas. One of the highlights is the exhibit on new materials and technologies. Marvel at the latest advancements in material production and see how innovation in architecture can drastically change how we construct buildings and consumer goods.

See the best of cinema at the Melbourne International Film Festival (last week of July to mid-August)

Showcasing the best local and international films, the Melbourne International Film Festival(MIFF) is the event to be if you’re a cinemaphile. With an MIFF pass, you get to attend various screening shows held from July to August. You can sign up for a membership to get access to more exclusive events such as gala nights and free screenings.

Discover new artists at the Melbourne Festival (October)

Winter might be over by October, but art events in the city are far from it. For several weeks in October, feast on musical, dance, and theatre performances, visual arts exhibits, and outdoor events at the Melbourne Festival. Whatever type of music or art genre you’re into, you’re sure to enjoy this festival. Many of the events here are free, and if you’re lucky, you can have a quick photo or chat with your favourite artist.

If you’re going to an arts festival that has events at various venues, make things easier by booking a cheap car rental in Melbourne with a GPS navigation device for a minimum fee. This way, it’s easier for you to go from one venue to another, even if you’re not familiar with the area.