UPDATE: Melbourne’s iconic Moomba Festival has just announced its new monarchs: quirky comedian and broadcaster Sammy J and beloved children’s entertainer Caterina Mete. The festival, set to take place from March 5 to March 9, 2024, is gearing up for an electrifying long weekend that promises to attract over 1.5 million visitors to the city.
This annual free event coincides with the Australian F1 Grand Prix and the start of the AFL season, making it a highlight of Melbourne’s cultural calendar. The festival features a vibrant parade complete with floats, large-scale puppets, and 1,800 performers celebrating community spirit and creativity.
“I can’t wait to see families lining the banks of the Yarra River and soaking up the fun,” said Caterina Mete, the Red Wiggle, expressing her excitement about the festival’s joyous atmosphere. Meanwhile, Sammy J humorously reflected on his journey to the throne, declaring, “Who’s laughing now?” after being dismissed by his careers counselor for aspiring to be Moomba Monarch.
In addition to the parade, festival-goers can expect thrilling stunts, including participants leaping from a 10-metre platform into the Yarra River using unique handmade contraptions. The festival also showcases some of the world’s best water skiers and wakeboarders, making it a must-see for thrill-seekers and families alike.
Melbourne Lord Mayor Nick Reece emphasized the economic impact of the festival, stating, “After record-breaking last year, we’re expecting more than 1.5 million visitors across the long weekend—delivering a major boost for our local economy.”
While excitement builds, the festival has faced challenges in the past. Incidents of violence have marred previous celebrations, including a violent brawl in 2025 near Alexandra Gardens and a critical stabbing in 2022 at Federation Square. The 2016 festival also saw chaos with up to 200 people engaged in street fights, resulting in numerous arrests.
Despite these concerns, the Moomba Festival remains a beloved tradition, bringing joy and community together. As preparations ramp up, anticipation grows for what promises to be an unforgettable celebration in Melbourne.
Stay tuned for more updates as the festival approaches, and get ready for the city to be truly “buzzing” with excitement!
