Events at The Third Day, North Melbourne

About The Third Day

The Third Day is an expansive warehouse-style events venue in North Melbourne, Victoria. Located at 290 Macaulay Road (4 km from the CBD), it occupies a former industrial block and offers roughly 800–1000 m² of open space with very high ceilings (around 4 m) and a capacity of about 700 people (www.creativespaces.net.au). Originally built as a 1920s costume warehouse, the site sat derelict after a fire around 2010 and was reborn as a creative live-arts space in 2016–17 (concreteplayground.com) (www.creativespaces.net.au). The venue’s name itself alludes to rebirth and renewal, a theme reflected in its industrial-meets-nature design. Inside, exposed brick walls and lofted viewing areas contrast with hanging garden installations and graffiti art, giving it an urban-chic, “Berlin club” vibe (www.creativespaces.net.au) (www.hiddencitysecrets.com.au). In fact, The Third Day is often described as a hidden gem in the local scene – a vast “open-air oasis” where neither day nor night needs to limit the party (www.creativespaces.net.au) (concreteplayground.com). High-end production facilities (including a Funktion-One sound system and state-of-the-art lighting) mean that live shows and parties here feel epic and memorable (www.thethirdday.com.au) (www.creativespaces.net.au). This blend of gritty industrial character and lush modern effects has made The Third Day stand out on Melbourne’s event map – it now hosts many of the city’s up-and-coming dance nights, DJ sets and specialty parties.

The heritage of the building adds to the venue’s character. CreativeSpaces notes that “what was once a burnt-out costume factory shell has transformed into an open-air oasis, playing host to some of Melbourne’s best events” (www.creativespaces.net.au). From the outside it may seem modest, but inside the scale is impressive – attendees often compare it to an art-gallery-meets-nightclub setting. Original industrial features (brick columns, giant roller doors) remain, while greenery suspended from the ceiling softens the space. A purpose-built raised area (the “DJ booth”) and bar serve as focal points. In short, The Third Day matters in the local scene because it turned ruin into a thriving party playground: it preserved a piece of North Melbourne’s history and spun it into a modern cultural asset, attracting music fans, artists and bookers looking for a unique party site.

Events and Programming

The Third Day is primarily known for live music and dance events. It hosts a wide variety of performances – from techno, house and electronic dance parties to occasional hip-hop, R&B or world-music nights. According to gig listings, the music skews heavily towards electronic genres (drum-and-bass, techno, trance, hard house, etc.) and features both local and international DJs. Acts like DJ Lag (South African gqom/techno), Tommy Holohan, Effy (trance/electro), HAAi (techno), ShockOne (drum & bass) and more have headlined shows here (www.songkick.com) (www.bandsintown.com). In fact, recent schedules include touring electronic artists: for example, Melbourne’s own ShockOne teamed with New Zealand’s Reaper for an “End of Days” warehouse event in late 2025 (www.bandsintown.com), and HAAi performed a headline set in early December 2025 (www.jambase.com) (www.jambase.com). Songkick notes that upcoming bookings include names like Dart, Fish56Octagon and others, while past concerts have featured diverse EDM and techno DJs (www.songkick.com).

Besides headliner concerts, the venue also hosts themed club nights and cultural parties. For instance, NAINA After Dark (Nov. 2025) was billed as a launch of Melbourne’s newest South-Asian club night, blending Bollywood, Punjabi, R&B and Afro beats on a Friday night at The Third Day (www.eventbrite.com.au). Community and alternative events – like queer parties (e.g. “Arcoíris Queer Latin Party”), masquerade balls or creative performance nights – often take advantage of the venue’s blank-canvas nature. The open layout allows promoters to design immersive environments and décor for each event. The programming is busiest on weekends during the summer months (spring through autumn), with events frequently running into the early morning. In between big public shows, the venue is also available for private hire (corporate functions, weddings, exhibitions) thanks to its versatile spaces, though these uses are separate from the public entertainment schedule.

Ticket prices vary widely by event. High-profile DJs or full-night parties typically start around AU$50–$70, with early-bird or presale tickets sometimes as low as AU$55 (www.jambase.com) (tixel.com). For example, one December 2025 techno concert sold tickets “from $54.90” (www.jambase.com), and an advance listing had a popular DJ entry “from $70” (tixel.com). Smaller or local events may charge less, while more elaborate productions (with special needs like costumes or extra performers) can be more. Because many shows sell out, fans are advised to book through official channels as soon as on-sale announcements are made. Presales and general sales are typically handled by ticketing partners; on-the-door sales (if any) depend on remaining availability and should not be relied on for popular events.

Tickets and Booking

Tickets for co-public events at The Third Day are generally sold online in advance rather than at the venue’s door. Popular concerts and club nights usually have presale windows and general public onsales through the promoter’s chosen outlets (for example, concerts might be listed on major ticketing sites or event platforms). It’s wise to follow the event organizer or The Third Day’s official updates for announcements of sale dates. Once on sale, tickets can sell quickly for headliner shows, so fans often buy early to secure better pricing or seating. Ticket prices are tiered by demand; early-bird or presale rates are lower, then standard prices apply closer to the event. As a guideline, expect general-admission standing tickets to be in the $50–$80 range for major gigs (www.jambase.com) (tixel.com). Price increases or VIP upgrades (if offered) may be available for premium experiences (such as access to the Chivas Lounge, meet-and-greets, etc.).

If visiting the venue directly, note that The Third Day does not maintain a traditional box office for walk-up ticket sales. Many events are announced well in advance, so it’s safest to plan ahead rather than hoping for late tickets. For last-minute needs, some fans use fan-to-fan resale services (with caution) or contact the promoter. Payment for tickets is typically made by credit/debit card or electronic transfer. The venue itself does not handle cash sales; any “on door” tickets would be managed by staff at entry only if explicitly advertised. Always verify the legitimacy of your tickets and avoid buying from unofficial sources. For sold-out shows, small releases or waitlists may exist, but again the official event pages or venue announcements are the best place to check.

Seating and Layout

The Third Day is a fully open-plan space with no fixed seating or arena-style rows. Most events are general admission: the entire main floor is a standing/dancing area. Inside the warehouse, the layout typically includes a stage or DJ booth at one end, and a main floor extending outward for the audience. Raised lounge areas with sofas and stools line the sides, allowing social groups to gather without blocking the main dancefloor. A large bar (the “warehouse bar”) sits off to one side, behind which there is more standing room and light booth. Because the venue can be dark and crowded during concerts, some people prefer congregating in the loftier lounge sections by the walls, which provide a good vantage over the crowd. The designer Lushsux’s graffiti art decorates the open-air courtyard outside, adding another space (the Laneway) where guests can step out to mingle or catch fresh air.

The signature VIP area is the Chivas Lounge – a private elevated room with its own bar and restroom (www.thethirdday.com.au). This exclusive space overlooks the entire venue through glass, so VIP ticket holders have a bird’s-eye view of the action below. The Chivas Lounge has a limited capacity, padded furnishings and is often booked for artists’ green room use or VIP parties, rather than general entry. Below, the main floor offers freedom to roam; the best spot depends on your preference. Close to the stage or DJ booth is ideal for sound and light immersion, but can be very loud. For a more moderate audio level, the mid-floor or side areas are good. Because The Third Day’s acoustics are boosted by powerful speakers, standing too far back or in the very corners can actually reduce sound clarity: it is usually best to stay on the main level. Unlike seated venues, there are no obstructed-view lines or bad “seat” picks – it is all about finding the right spot on the dancefloor.

Acoustically, the open warehouse does carry bass well. If you’re sensitive to high volume, try standing at the far edges or in the covered lounge area where it’s slightly quieter. The venue is indoors, so rain or weather do not affect the main events (the covered space keeps shows going even in storms). The one break in the roof is the open-air garden courtyard, which is mostly outdoors but sometimes used for chilled-out side events or smoking areas. All in all, The Third Day is designed for flexibility – the wide floor and high ceilings mean there are almost no poor viewing angles. (Insider tip: if you want to escape the crowd or get an overview, head to a mezzanine or the railings of the Chivas Lounge.)

Getting There and Parking

The Third Day’s address is 290 Macaulay Road, North Melbourne, VIC 3051 (www.ticketmaster.com.au). It is extremely well-connected by public transit. The nearest train station is Macaulay (Upfield line): in fact, the venue tells us Macaulay Station is only about 50 m away from its entrance (www.creativespaces.net.au). From Southern Cross or Melbourne Central, take a quick train on any northbound lines that stop at Macaulay; the trip takes under 10 minutes. A short walk from Macaulay takes you right to The Third Day. Several tram routes also serve nearby stops. In particular, Tram 57 along Flemington Road comes within a few minutes’ walk of the venue. This makes it easy to get here from the city or suburbs on Melbourne’s tram network. Key bus routes for North Melbourne are 216 and 402, both of which have stops on Macaulay Road or nearby (moovitapp.com); these can connect you from Sunshine Station, Melbourne University and other areas. For visitors, the venue is in Zone 1 for tickets, and you need a Myki card for trains/trams.

Driving to The Third Day is an option, but note that it has no private parking lot of its own. Some street parking is available on Macaulay Road and side streets, though be aware that many spots have time limits (often 2 hours) so read the signs. Creative Spaces notes there is “plenty of free on-street parking out the front” (www.creativespaces.net.au), but in practice this is limited and usually fills up on event nights. If you are willing to walk a bit, there is a larger paid parking area at Parkville Stadium (Brens Drive, a few blocks away) which costs a few dollars per hour. Rideshare drivers (Uber/Lyft) and taxis commonly drop off on Macaulay Road; there is a turning area and some curb space in front of the venue’s main entrance. Enter via the double garage doors – typically one is propped open during events for entry. In brief: public transport and rideshare are usually the easiest ways to arrive. For late nights, trams run until midnight (later on weekends) and trains run often in the evenings (and the Upfield line runs 24-hour on weekends). Plan accordingly if leaving after 1 AM.

Inside the Venue

Expect a dramatic, high-energy atmosphere as soon as you step inside The Third Day. Entry areas lead right into the main open hall. On concert or club nights, there will usually be a security checkpoint or ID scanner by the door. Video cameras and metal detectors may be in use for larger crowds, so arrive a bit early to avoid queues. The general lighting is atmospheric – think industrial-chic with warm uplights on brick and decorative string lights. Most events have theatrical stage lighting, lasers or projections once the show starts. In between the main space, The Third Day also has an ultra-hipster courtyard (the “Laneway”) decorated with Lushsux artwork (www.thethirdday.com.au). This outdoor garden area has more seating and gives a break from the thumping main floor; it often fills with people smoking or chatting. (It can also be used for mobile bars or food trucks at busy events.)

Bar service is available – the main bar (“warehouse bar”) serves a full range of drinks, from beers and wines to cocktails. At bigger shows or themed parties, you might also find pop-up bars or food vendors selling snacks. There is no on-site restaurant, but short lines at the bar are normal for drinks at peak times. Note that the venue is cashless, so have a credit card ready for drinks (most bars will accept Contactless and card payments). Water stations are often provided free of charge, since events last late and get hot and crowded. The Third Day may also host specific food stalls on the laneway, such as pizza or kebabs – these are typically advertised on event pages beforehand.

You’ll find bathrooms inside the site, including standard restrooms and at least one fully accessible restroom (www.creativespaces.net.au). These are clearly signposted once inside (often next to the bar area). If you have mobility or sensory needs, staff are generally helpful: the venue’s design includes wide corridors, ramps and quiet corners (www.creativespaces.net.au). However, as a large open warehouse nightclub, the main space can be very loud with heavy bass, so consider ear protection if you’re sensitive. On entry, coat checks or lockers might be offered (especially in winter or during weddings/banquets); check with staff if needed. (It’s a good idea to travel light – large backpacks may be subject to search or not fit comfortably.) Once inside, though, the venue’s vibe is both relaxed and electrifying: you can dance, drink, eat snacks, and roam freely until the show ends. Connectivity (Wi-Fi) is not guaranteed, so assume mobile data will be spotty when packed.

Nearby Amenities

For pre-show dining and drinks, North Melbourne has plenty of options a short walk away. The busy Errol Street/Hanover Street strip (about 500m east) offers casual cafes, pub fare and trendy bars. Popular local spots include Errol’s Cafe (great for brunch or pizza) and Neighbourhood (a modern bistro on Errol St). There are also ethnic eateries and takeaways scattered around. If you prefer fine dining or a bistro, nearby Parkville and Carlton (reachable by tram or a 15-min walk) have many restaurants, or you can full-city dining by heading a few tram stops toward the CBD. Immediately across the street is the Roving Crows Hotel (a pub) and several bakeries/cafes. After a show, the area has a handful of late-night bars and drag spots – for example, The Croft Institute and Metro North pub (just off Errol St) stay open well into the night. Public toilets can be found in the nearby Errol/Flemington precinct if needed, but note those often close at midnight, so it’s usually best to use the venue’s facilities before leaving.

Lodging options around The Third Day are somewhat limited, but there are a few nearby hotels and serviced apartments. The Mercure North Melbourne (corner of Victoria & Banks St) is about a 5-minute drive (or a few blocks walk) from the venue. There are also budget chains like Ibis Styles on Victoria Street and small boutique stays (Turnkey Accommodation on Spencer St is a few kilometers away). Many visitors simply stay in the CBD and catch a short tram or taxi across town on event nights. Remember to pay attention to your departure – while trams and trains run late, booking a ride-share can save waiting if you’re out very late. The local bus 401 (from Queen Victoria Market) and tram 57 both run along Errol/Flemington roads late into the evening, and taxis/Ubers can pick up on Macaulay Road outside the venue.

What Makes This Venue Special

The Third Day’s uniqueness comes from its character and versatility. Few venues in Melbourne can match its scale or raw aesthetic – a huge brick shell brought to life with plants and art. Its “industrial sanctuary” feel is often noted: Concrete Playground described it as a place “people have never seen anything like” locally (concreteplayground.com). Unlike a standard pub or club, it feels more like a blank canvas nightclub that can transform for each performance. Every act can customize the lighting, stage layout and décor, so every show has a distinct flavor. Artists and fans remark that performing or partying there feels “legendary” – in the venue’s own words, “there’s no other venue like The Third Day” (www.thethirdday.com.au). Programmers also praise its professional setup: a top-tier sound system (including Funktion-One speakers) and rhythmic lighting rigs give DJs and bands confidence that their show will sound great. All of these elements combine to make it a hot spot for those who love a major-party vibe in a non-traditional space.

Culturally, The Third Day has played an important role in reviving North Melbourne’s nightlife. Before its arrival, the district had few large-scale music venues; now this old warehouse regularly brings hundreds of people into the area. It draws a creative, music-loving crowd, adding energy to what was once a quieter industrial precinct. The venue often hosts genre events that celebrate Melbourne’s diversity, from queer dance nights to world-music parties. Its founder deliberately calls it a “playground” for wild ideas – guests might enter off the street into anything from a techno rave to a futuristic art-installation party. This spirit of creativity and inclusion – plus the classy-chic interiors – is why audiences and performers alike have embraced The Third Day. In short, it matters not just for its shows, but as a cultural landmark: a phoenix of a building that now represents Melbourne’s free-spirited party culture.

Visitor Tips and Information

Accessibility: The Third Day is fully wheelchair accessible. Ramps (and wide elevator lifts, if needed) lead into the main hall. Doors are broad (1100 mm+) and there are accessible toilets on-site (www.creativespaces.net.au). The venue even lists features like an “accessible path to entrance” and “quiet areas” (www.creativespaces.net.au), so guests with mobility or sensory needs should have support. If you need help or special accommodation, the small venue staff can usually assist promptly. When approaching by public transport, note that Macaulay Station itself has ramps; from the station to the front door is level ground. Inside, though the floor is smooth, it can become crowded and dark – bean-bag or foam earplugs are recommended for sensory relief, and a guide dog or companion is allowed.

Entry requirements: Most public events here are 18+; check the event listing. If under 18 and an event is all-ages (rare for these nighttime shows), valid photo ID may still be required to verify age. For 18+ nights, bring a passport, driver’s licence or proof of age card; security will scan IDs at the door. Bag checks and metal detectors are common – minimal personal items are best. Large backpacks or professional camera gear are often refused. Only take small crossbody bags or pouches. Photography/filming: Personal point-and-shoot cameras are usually fine, but professional cameras or video recorders are typically not allowed unless media credentials are granted in advance. Always follow staff instructions if a DJ or promoter announces a no-photo policy.

Prohibited items: The venue generally disallows outside food and drink (bring only a refillable water bottle if allowed). Smoking is only permitted in designated outdoor areas (the courtyard laneway) – you may be asked to step outside if smoking or vaping. Weapons or drug paraphernalia are strictly banned. Dress code: There is no formal dress code, so come in whatever makes you comfortable for a nightclub (loud themed outfits or casual streetwear both fit the vibe). Remember the floor can get hot and slippery if dancing – flat-soled shoes are safest.

Arriving early: Doors often open an hour before showtime. For club events, arrive by the first DJ if you want to secure a prime spot. Cabos or Ubers tend to form queues at late-night, so if one isn’t waiting, walking a couple of blocks to a busier pickup point (or using the laneway side entrance) might get you a ride sooner. Check the last train/tram times in advance to avoid being stranded – Melbourne’s public transport schedule changes after midnight. The venue usually finishes sound-positive near the advertised end time, but line-ups for taxis can get long, so plan accordingly (rail and tram nights will often run until about 1–2 AM).

What to bring/not bring: Besides your ticket and ID, bring cash only for small incidentals (like merch); bars and bars accept cards and taps for most purchases. Earplugs are advisable if you plan to be near the speakers. If you have sensitive skin or allergies, note that late-night parties can raise smoke and alcohol fumes – someone in the group with more tolerance should guide the outing. Common mistakes to avoid: don’t plan on oversleeping in the middle of the night since the venue and security may lock doors at closing. If attending a theme party (e.g. masquerade), check if they recommend or require costumes. Other than that, just remember: the venue is communal and celebratory, so respect the space, clean up after yourself, and enjoy the show safely.