Docklands will once again become Melbourne’s winter playground this July as the free Firelight Festival returns with three nights of fire performances, laser projections, live music and glowing after-dark activities along Harbour Esplanade.
Running from Friday 3 to Sunday 5 July, the annual City of Melbourne event is expected to attract more than 100,000 visitors across the opening weekend of the school holidays, with more than 130 performers bringing the waterfront to life.
This year’s program is going bigger than ever with a new large-scale laser and light show combining choreographed fountains, high-impact lasers and synchronised music across Victoria Harbour. Spanning almost 90 metres, the immersive installation will feature 20 water fountains and 30 laser projectors, with two major nightly shows taking place at 6.30pm and 8.30pm alongside fire performers.
The spectacle will play out against Development Victoria’s new Echo installation, a striking display of 147 illuminated marine buoys tracing the footprint of the former Central Pier.
Lord Mayor Nick Reece said the festival had become one of Melbourne’s standout winter events.
“Firelight Festival is a great excuse to rug up, get out of the house and see Docklands at its best,” he said.
“Firelight is Melbourne’s brightest winter event and this year’s program will bring back the fiery favourites, with new after-dark experiences adding even more glow to the program.”
Alongside the waterfront performances, visitors will also be able to try glow-in-the-dark pickleball at Docklands Community Hub Reserve, with tournaments and free play sessions running throughout the weekend. Silent discos at MPavilion Docklands will keep the energy going late into the evening.
Food trucks will line the precinct serving winter comfort favourites including hot chocolate, s’mores and sizzling street food, while local venues and businesses will roll out festival specials ranging from fire-themed cocktails to discounted dining deals and happy hour offers.
Tourism and Events portfolio head Councillor Mark Scott said the festival was another reminder that Melbourne comes alive during winter.
“Melbourne doesn’t hibernate in winter – with family friendly events like the Firelight Festival bringing people out, supporting local traders, hospitality and businesses while delivering an unforgettable free experience,” he said.
For the full program and festival offers visit https://firelight.melbourne.vic.gov.au/
