Courtyard
Our ground-level Courtyard is an open-air space made for networking, cocktail and conference receptions. Lined with 36 food cubes growing produce for Goldfields Café + Bar, it brings a fresh, local flavour to every event. Located near Goldfields Theatre, the exhibition bays and Sovereign Room, the Courtyard sits right in the flow of the venue. Enjoy sunshine during the day, then switch on the festoon lights after dark for a relaxed, Melbourne-style garden party feel.
Explore our floor plans and space capacities guideCapacity range
Cocktail
740 people
Event space
900 sqm
Celebrate in The Courtyard — Limited Time Pop-Up
Our limited-time pop-up in The Courtyard is an open-air space made for cocktail events, networking and welcome receptions that feel relaxed, stylish and unmistakably Melbourne.
With lush greenery, warm light and contemporary furniture, the space sets the tone for a garden-party atmosphere by day or an elegant evening under the stars. It’s effortless, inviting and made for connection.
As the sun goes down, lighting, sound and atmosphere come together. MCEC’s AV specialists shape the space after dark, creating a courtyard experience that feels distinctly Melbourne.
To match the mood, the catering team has designed a cocktail menu shaped by the city itself — generous bites, diverse flavours and local drinks made for open-air celebrations.
Room details
Room location
A Gala Dinner Should Wow—Starting with the Menu
Spectacular spaces, brilliant AV and lighting, and menus so good you’ll want to linger long after dessert. Gala season at MCEC, that’s when we really turn up the volume. And Melbourne? Head just outside our venue and you’ve got everything you need to make it a complete night out.
Time to Rethink the Gala
At MCEC, we’re flipping the script. We believe a gala should feel like a night out. It should be bold. Beautiful. Maybe even a little surprising. Whether it’s a black-tie fundraiser, a big-brand launch, or a just-because celebration, we help you design events that live up to the dress code and then some.
How Do You Spend 24 Hours in Melbourne?
What to do in a city that has it all? In a city bursting with experiences, it can be tough to decide, so we created a list of must-dos so you can make the most of your brief visit, tailored perfectly for your conference arrival in Melbourne.
What's on Everybody's Plate in 2024?
Take a delicious adventure and explore our 2024 menus, designed to celebrate the simplicity, inclusivity, and vibrant culture that defines our magnificent region, Victoria.
MCEC Launches New Resources to Help Event Organisers Make a Positive Impact
MCEC has released an online toolkit to help customers implement corporate social responsibility as part of their event.
The Simple Ways We're Making Events More Sustainable
Today's eventgoers are actively seeking events that push environmental and social responsibility. That's why we're committed to creating impact and helping event planners like you integrate sustainability into your next event.
Outdoor and In-Venue Signage: Amazing Ways to Promote Your Event
Want to maximise attendance at your next event? Look no further than MCEC, where opportunities are endless.
7 of the Best Large Event Spaces at MCEC
We’re made for big events, and we’ve got some amazing large spaces to facilitate them. Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre is all in the name.