What's the Best Way to Celebrate Australia Day in Melbourne

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Posted 2012-01-10 by Natasha Abrahams ⇒ follow

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Each year on January 26, patriotic Aussies break out their barbecues, bikinis and flags (always worn as capes) in a euphoric celebration of what it means to be Australian. The whole country takes part, with a public holiday and plenty of festivities for all to enjoy.

Get your sporting fix by seeing the Australian Open semi finals on the 26th. The annual tennis tournament attracts famous international tennis players, but expect to pay hundreds of dollars for seats. Or, you can watch the broadcast for free.

For some splashing fun in the sun, participate in the Havaianas Thong Challenge . Each year, the challenge is to make a new world record for the longest line of inflatable Havaianas thongs in the water at once, competing against the efforts of other states. The challenge is not quite in Melbourne, with the event being held at Torquay's legendary beach. There are activities from 10am until 4pm, including races and a barbecue which is on for most of the day. Registration costs $30 on the day, and includes a giant inflatable thong.

There are plenty of free events at Federation Square , including live music performances on the main stage, distinctively Aussie shows being broadcasted on the big screen, and a live broadcast of the Australian Open. For those wanting to celebrate Australia Day with a dose of the multiculturalism that shapes our country, there are free Buddhist meditation sessions, to which beginners are welcome.

Despite all the events on offer, perhaps the best way to spend Aussie Day is to keep it simple. A trip to the beach with friends, covered head-to-toe in Australian flag themed apparel, is my yearly tradition. Family barbecues are another typically Australian way to spend the national birthday.