In an all-new location in 2026, the Spotlight Makers Pavilion will be a hub for creation and innovation. It will brim with not only the Art, Craft and Cookery Competition exhibits but also local artists, live demonstrations and kids’ activities.
Be inspired by the 4000-plus creative exhibits entered into the Melbourne Royal Art, Craft & Cookery Competition by talented artists, crafters and home cooks vying for a coveted blue ribbon.
All your favourite traditional pieces will be on display, including decorated cakes, preserves, apple pies and toys, along with exhibits from more than 30 new classes.
Join members of the Society of Folk & Decorative Artists of Victoria as they paint cards and memory boxes using acrylics and traditional decorative techniques.
Discover crafting expertise from crafter’s guilds and associations in beading, needlework, and more. Makers reveal top tips for crafting masterpieces in the Community Studio.
Discover the Tatters Guild and the beautiful art of tatting. Watch skilled makers create delicate handmade lace, learn about this traditional craft, and be inspired by intricate designs. A fascinating display for visitors of all ages at the Melbourne Royal Show.
Watch members of the Bead Society in action as they demonstrate bead weaving and embroidery techniques using glass, crystal, and metal beads and components.
Join the Basket Makers of Victoria and learn the art of plaiting natural fibres to create your own children’s jewellery. This fun, hands-on activity introduces simple weaving techniques and lets young makers take home a unique handmade keepsake.
Learn decorating techniques from skilled members of the Cake Decorators Association of Victoria as they expertly embellish a range of sweet creations. Then try your hand at decorating your own biscuit to take home.
Create a handcrafted Christmas heirloom with the Needlework Tapestry Guild. Join this hands on workshop to learn simple tapestry stitching techniques and make a festive decoration to take home, keep, or give as a gift. All materials provided.
Get stitching with The Embroiderers Guild. Discover the colourful world of traditional and contemporary embroidery and learn how to cross stitch your own initials in a hands-on demonstration. A fun and creative activity for all ages. Come along, pick up a needle, and make your mark.
Discover the art of bookbinding with the Victorian Bookbinding Guild. Explore book repair techniques in a live demonstration and create your own personalised gold-tooled leather bookmark. Perfect for curious beginners, makers, and book lovers of all ages
Drop in to the Spotlight Create Space and enjoy a range of free, hands-on craft activities for all ages. Experiment with different materials, learn new skills and make something to take home. With a new creative activity each day, Spotlight Create Space offers a welcoming environment to explore, imagine and create.
For the first time at the Melbourne Royal Show, discover the Spotlight Family-Friendly Pop-Up Store in the Spotlight Makers Pavilion. Open daily, it’s the perfect stop for families to get creative together, with hands-on inspiration, craft, sewing and baking supplies, fun finds for all ages, and exclusive Show offers.
Visit the Country Women’s Association booth in the Spotlight Makers Pavilion to discover how the Country Women’s Association supports rural and regional communities across Victoria. Meet members, learn about their programs, and drop in for a hands-on craft activity suitable for all ages.
Australian Artist Deborah Klein explores storytelling through different paper based art styles. During her Artist in Residency at the Melbourne Royal Show, Klein is exploring possibilities of paper as both a sculptural and expressive medium.
An engaging exhibition exploring the story of one Australia’s most popular designers a pioneer of sustainable fashion. Explore Enid’s life, creative work and sewing tips through photographs, patterns, garments, conversation and hands on activities. Take a selfie, make a mini paper garment and share Enid’s stories
