A free day of creativity, community, and discovery at RMIT's City North Social Innovation Precinct.
Saturday 3 October 2026
11:00am - 4:00pm
RMIT City North Social Innovation Precinct: Cardigan Street, Carlton VIC 3053
Free
Experience a vibrant festival filled with food, performances, workshops, technology, design, urban growing, and hands-on activities suitable for all ages. This event celebrates creativity and community, inviting families to explore and engage with innovative ideas shaping the future.
Enjoy diverse offerings such as interactive art installations, live music, and cultural experiences that bring Cardigan Street to life. It’s a perfect day out for parents and children to learn, play, and connect.
The festival showcases RMIT’s City North Social Innovation Precinct as a living lab, where students, researchers, and the community collaborate to explore social and urban challenges through engaging activities.
The festival includes a wide range of activities like the Civic Gym journey along Cardigan Street, the Frugal Canteen with affordable community meals, letterpress printing workshops, and regenerative practice sessions with First Peoples artists.
Families can participate in urban garden pop-ups, architectural film screenings, interactive roleplays envisioning 2050, and meet-and-greet sessions with robots and student clubs. Live performances by DJs and dance groups add to the lively atmosphere.
Special workshops such as flower hammering and Indigenous language walking tours provide unique cultural and creative experiences. The event is designed to be inclusive and welcoming for all ages.
The festival takes place along Cardigan Street in the RMIT City North Social Innovation Precinct, Carlton VIC 3053, within easy reach of Melbourne’s CBD.
Access is convenient by public transport: State Library and Melbourne Central train stations are nearby, and multiple tram routes service Swanston and La Trobe Streets. For those driving, parking is available at RMIT’s City Campus car park with weekend rates.
The precinct is a vibrant urban space ideal for families to explore on foot, with plenty of spots to sit, eat, and enjoy the community atmosphere.
This is a free event open to everyone, making it an accessible day out for families looking to engage with innovative and cultural activities.
Activities are suitable for all ages, with many designed to be hands-on and interactive, encouraging participation from children and adults alike.
Be prepared for a full day of exploration; bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a curious mind to make the most of the festival.
The festival is free to attend with no prior booking required for general entry. Some workshops or activities may require registration, which can be done on-site or via the event website.
Food and drinks are available for purchase at the Frugal Canteen, offering affordable and diverse options made by the community.
Come hungry, ready to learn, and eager to connect with the vibrant community at RMIT City North Shared Futures Festival.
