December's best live music events in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs

Read about upcoming shows featuring local acts across Belgrave and Oakleigh.

From an Australian country rock band still playing their 70s hits to a 90s grunge group, here are some of the gigs to check out across Melbourne’s eastern suburbs in December.

Like the look of our live music guide but think we’ve missed something? Let us know and send an email to [email protected]

Live at the Library - Millie Jane and Gaji

On the first Friday of each month, Live at the Library is a gig delivered in partnership with Defrosted Events – an initiative led by Yarra Ranges locals aged 14 to 25.

The monthly performances showcase young musicians from the Dandenongs and Yarra Ranges.

This month’s featured artists will be pop singers Millie Jane and Gaji.

When: Friday December 5, 6-7pm

Where: Belgrave Library, Reynolds Lane, Belgrave

Cost: Free

The Wax Eaters

This five-piece Melbourne-based band has been playing live gigs and recording since 2016, developing their surf rock ‘n’ roll style. 

Support acts on the night include Drano Hotshots and Death of Nexus.

When: Saturday December 6, 9pm-late

Where: The Belgrave Hotel, Burwood Highway, Belgrave

Cost: Free

Legends of Sunbury

50 years ago, the Sunbury Pop Festival ran for the very last time – closing out a four-year run of what was marketed as Australia’s answer to Woodstock.

Now, a few of the acts that graced the stage are returning to play their hits and reminisce.

Progressive rock bands Spectrum and Madder Lake will join the former lead vocalist and guitarist of Australian blues band Chain, Phil Manning.

When: Sunday December 7, 2.30-5pm

Where: Oakleigh Music Hall, 95-97 Drummond Street, Oakleigh

Cost: $40

The Burning Bridges

The banjo and fiddle are at the front of the stage for this four-piece outfit, bringing the sounds of American country to stages across Melbourne.

The Victorian Folk Music Club will be hosting The Burning Bridges as part of its monthly concerts series.

When: Tuesday December 9, 7.45-10pm

Where: Ringwood East Senior Citizens’ Hall, 2-8 Laurence Grove, Ringwood East

Cost: $15

Magic Dirt

25 years on from the release of their biggest hit – “Dirty Jeans”, Geelong-based rock band Magic Dirt is making the trek up to the Hills to play a set covering their most popular singles, a few deep cuts and some new tracks.

When: Thursday December 11, 7pm

Where: Sooki Lounge, 1648 Burwood Highway, Belgrave

Cost: $46.95

Stars

An Australian country rock band that broke up in 1979 but got back together in 2019? Tell me more.

Stars will be playing tunes from their albums Paradise and Land of Fortune, as well as newer tracks.

When: Friday December 12, 8.30-11.15pm

Where: Oakleigh Music Hall, 95-97 Drummond Street, Oakleigh

Cost: $40