On February 18, 2017, the city of Melbourne will be illuminated with amazing lights and artwork. For just one night, the White Night Melbourne will transform the city through bright lights, much-awaited street performances, exhibitions, film, music, dance, and other interactive events. Head to the streets, parklands, cultural institutions, laneways, and public spaces to celebrate the whole night with locals and tourists alike.
Local, national, and international artists will be the highlight from 18th – 19th of February, 7 PM – 7 AM. Initially conceived in Paris way back in 2002, White Night, or Nuit Blanche as they call it, have inspired more than 20 cities in the world, leading them to recreate the event in their own turf. Melbourne, being an artistic city that it already is, first adapted the idea in 2013. It then became a massive hit to Melburnians and tourists as well, and thus, the event took place annually from then on.
Every year, an estimated amount of 500,000 people come to the city to celebrate White Night. This being said, the streets always gets crowded during the big event. Spending a little time to plan your trip will save you a lot of time and effort. We want to spare you from the hassle as well, so we’ve rounded up some of the best tips for you:
Transportation
Getting a car rental in Melbourne should definitely be first in your list especially if you’re just visiting and unfamiliar with the place. As we’ve said earlier, it can get pretty crowded, and commuting can be a pain in the neck.
Interesting spots
The White Night Melbourne northern and southern precincts have finally expanded this year. Start the experience by dropping by the Carlton Gardens or the Alexandra Gardens, before going all out in the city.
On Commuting
If you can’t get a car rental and you are planning to take the public train, then consider getting off at Melbourne Central and then starting the whole experience at the northern end. What you will see if you take this route: the Royal Exhibition Building, Melbourne Museum Plaza, and the Carlton Gardens.
Be Flexible and Patient
Large crowds are expected to pour in from 7 PM all the way until midnight, so be patient when you’re trying to see a particular dance, film, or artwork. You can always move on to another piece, then come back to it after a few minutes. The best advice we can give you regarding this is to follow the White Night team’s instructions.
Road Closures
There are going to be extra road closures this year. Please note that Swanston Street and Flinders Street will be extra busy between 7 PM to 11 PM. If you don’t like huge crowds, then head on to Russell and Elizabeth Streets instead – as those are reported to be lighter when it comes to pedestrian traffic.
Be Attentive
Look out for your friends and family while in the event. Also, make sure to keep your belongings close to you.
What’s in the northern precinct, you ask? Well, a lot of installations that will surely make your night.
Image credits to whitenightmelbourne.com.au
- The Pyrophone Juggernaut is the largest fire organ in the world. It is hand-operated and multi-octave, with multiple musicians and performance artists operating it.
Image credits to whitenightmelbourne.com.au
- Nebulous is an amazing kinetic sculpture that is simply inspired by how the Earth and Moon will look like. It is a colourful and three-dimensional globe mounted on a steel tower.
Image credits to whitenightmelbourne.com.au
- The Rhythms of the Night presents different artists in motion. If you want to be lulled by their amazing moves and the relaxing sounds, then head on to the Royal Exhibition Building.
See you soon, enjoy Melbourne and White Night!