Melburnians, we know it’s getting chilly. But we’re not the type of city to give up on going out just because the weather is less than ideal. Aside from the inconvenient truth that we’d never get anything done if we didn’t venture out into the cold, Melbourne is heating up with a reason to hit the streets this winter.
Firelight Festival is returning to Docklands this winter from Friday, July 4 to Sunday, July 6. The surrounding streets of Victoria Harbour will be set alight, literally, with fiery installations from 5pm on each of the three nights. Expect flames in all forms, with blazing sculptures, jets and performances.
In an exciting first, internationally renowned Tasmanian artist Amanda Parer will debut her giant glowing inflatable sculptures Man and Fantastic Planet at this year’s festival, on show in Melbourne for the first time.
Plus, a new addition to the festival will illuminated the Yarra River while getting attendees involved, with the Light the Night Boat Display. Boat owners are invited to decorate their vessels with lights and compete for the People’s Choice Award for the crowd's favourite display.
The free festival is a celebration of winter with a focus on family, community, food, music, fire and light. There’ll be vibrant cultural displays, roving performers to delight the little ones, warming foods and plentiful fire installations.
There’ll be plenty of food to satisfy the appetite you’ll work up exploring the promenades. Hearty, warming treats including Spanish paella, Filipino barbeque, hot doughnuts and s’mores will all be on offer, alongside mulled wine for the grown-ups.
To find out more and see the festival's full program, head to the website.