Docklands will transform into a radiant winter playground when the Firelight Festival ignites Melbourne’s school holidays from 4-6 July, featuring giant glowing sculptures, a floating light display, and fiery performances across three dazzling nights.
This free, family-friendly event brings warmth to winter with immersive art, crackling fire pits, flame jets, and nearly 40 food trucks serving up sizzling street eats and sweet treats.
In a Melbourne-first, internationally acclaimed Tasmanian artist Amanda Parer will unveil her monumental inflatable sculptures Man and Fantastic Planet – large-scale illuminated works that play with light and scale to provoke wonder.
Adding to the spectacle, the festival introduces its Light the Night Boat Display, inviting boat owners to deck their vessels in lights and compete for the People’s Choice Award.
Nearly 50 fire performers, dancers, and musicians will roam the harbourside, while roaring fire arches and lit-up installations keep the crowds mesmerised. From s’mores to hot chocolate, the food offerings promise to combat the winter chill in delicious style.
Lord Mayor Nick Reece calls it “the blazing hearth of Melbourne’s winter events calendar,” expecting 80,000 visitors and a $6 million boost to the local economy. “This year shines even brighter with Amanda Parer’s luminous, larger-than-life art installations,” he adds.
Full program available at Firelight Festival. website.
