The Queen Victoria Market is one of Melbourne’s gems—it’s one of the only places you can manage an entire week’s worth of groceries, grab yourself a cheese and spinach borek (or a dozen hot, jam-filled donuts), and return the following night to immerse yourself in a world of arts, culture, food and entertainment.
This September, the market will again spring to life after hours, teaming up with Melbourne Fringe Festival to present their Fringe Flavours Night Market.
But in addition to the street food staples we’ve come to love at night markets past, this year’s entertainment will include shows by local queer cabaret, drag, and burlesque performers.
Across five weeks, the market will play host to Ruby Slippers (the globally recognised, high femme, and slightly risqué cabaret performer), Tash York (the multi-talented cabaret performer known for her dynamic voice and energy), Bettie Bombshell (the internationally renowned, scintillating, and raunchy burlesque performer), and Darby James (a rising star in the cabaret community).
Other performers include GRRL Power, Throw Catch Collective, and Boyd Kelly.
Plus, of course, food and drink options are aplenty, with more than a dozen vendors slinging street eats throughout the night. Snack on Polish dumplings with Pierogi Pierogi, artisan handmade pasta with La Trafila, traditional Argentinian asado with Boy Churrasco’s, beef cheek and cheese tacos with La Mano. Then, treat yourself to a dessert from Tokyo Souffle, Crème Brûlée Donuts or Oksusu.
To wash everything down, enjoy a local, spring-inspired beer, wine, or cocktail at one of three bars on the night: the Berry Refreshing Cocktail Bar, the Margarita Station, and the Fringe Flavours Bar.
THE DETAILS
What: The Fringe Flavours Night Market at Queen Victoria Market
When: Every Wednesday from 18 September to 16 October 5.00pm-10.00pm
Where: Queen Victoria Market—corner Queen and Therry Streets
Entry is free, with food, drinks, and local artisanal goods for purchase.