Fed Square is switching on summer nights in the city with the return of Open Air, a month-long program of free live music, outdoor cinema and cultural events running through February in the heart of Melbourne.
The annual series brings warm evenings to life with performances, film screenings and large-scale celebrations designed to be shared. From major concerts to intimate cultural moments, Open Air once again turns Fed Square into a night-time meeting place for locals and visitors alike.
Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks says, “Fed Square has always been the city’s gathering space and it’s now a destination for incredible performances and events – all free and open to all ages. Programs like this that bring Victorians and visitors together showcase once again why Melbourne is the cultural capital and Victoria is the creative state.”
Among the headline events is the return of the Candlelight Concert Series from February 10 to 12. Thousands of flickering candles will frame performances by Tina Arena, presenting her THANK YOU MELBOURNE show, alongside Folk Bitch Trio and First Nations R&B artist Dean Brady. All shows are Auslan interpreted and feature accessible viewing areas.
Live music continues with global artists François K, Σtella and Ganavya LIVE on February 28, while February 27 sees New Orleans bounce icon Big Freedia headline a high-energy celebration of queer artistry. Afro Caribbean Carnival returns on February 21 with Sister Nancy, General Levy and local sound systems taking over the Square.
Film fans are also covered, with Outdoor Cinema continuing into summer. Programs include In Defence of Satire from February 2 to 5 and the return of Silent Cinema with Live Scores, pairing classic films with live performances by Australian musicians.
Other highlights include Garage Band on February 7, City Sessions on February 22, and Nongkrong – Pasar Senja on Valentine’s Day.
Melbourne Arts Precinct Director and CEO Katrina Sedgwick says, “We’re proud to once again present Fed Square’s hugely popular Open Air festival this February… Summer is the perfect time to come together, settle into Fed Square, and enjoy the very best of Melbourne’s arts and culture – and all of it is free.”
For the full program, visit fedsquare.com/events/open-air-at-the-square.
