Enjoy the Antipodes Festival from one of the best vantage points on Lonsdale Street and support Greek culture at the same time.
The annual Antipodes Festival Cocktail Party offers a premium VIP experience overlooking the Festival’s Main Stage, where one of Greece’s most exciting contemporary performers, Ioulia Karapataki, will headline the 2026 program.
From the Greek Centre balcony, guests will enjoy views of Karapataki’s live performance as she brings her high-energy sound and modern take on Greek folk music to the heart of Melbourne. Known for her powerful stage presence and crowd-lifting performances, Karapataki’s appearance is set to be a standout moment of Antipodes 2026.
Cocktail Party guests are treated to a relaxed yet refined evening of Greek hospitality, with:
A premium drinks menu featuring Greek wines, beers, spirits and soft drinks, supplied by Hellenic Wines & Spirits
A five-star canapé and meze menu by renowned caterers Olive & Thyme
Exclusive balcony access overlooking the Festival’s Main Stage
It is the perfect way to experience Antipodes in comfort while staying connected to the energy of the street below.
Attendance at the Cocktail Party is via a $165+ tax-deductible donation to the Antipodes Centre Trust.
Funds raised directly support the Trust, the Greek Community of Melbourne’s charitable fund, with proceeds reinvested into Greek cultural initiatives including:
The Antipodes Festival
The Greek Film Festival
Programs in theatre, music, visual arts and dance
This long-standing festival favourite regularly sells out and places are limited.
GCM members receive early access and special pricing from 9.00am, Monday 19 January.
Strictly 18+
Dress code: Cocktail Party
Please note that Lonsdale Street and Russell Street will be closed to vehicles and traffic in the surrounding area will be heavy.
Nearby parking options include:
222 Russell Street (Wilson Parking)
Golden Square Parking (Little Bourke Street)
QV Car Park (entry via Little Lonsdale Street)
Public transport is also a convenient option, with State Library Station and Town Square Station just a short walk away. Check the PTV Journey Planner for travel options.
Donate, dress up and enjoy an unforgettable night overlooking one of Melbourne’s most iconic festivals, while directly supporting Greek culture and the arts.
Secure your place early. This event always sells out.
This event is part of the series Antipodes 2026.
The Greek Community of Melbourne hosts a wide range of events, from intimate gatherings to large functions, and celebrates cultural diversity with vibrant festivals, performances, and exhibitions.
Antipodes 2026 has finished, it ran between: Saturday, 28 February 2026 and Sunday, 01 March 2026
See all Antipodes 2026 published events.
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