WINTER IN DOCKLANDS 2025: FIRELIGHT FESTIVAL AND MUST-VISIT ACTIVITIES
WINTER IN DOCKLANDS 2025: FIRELIGHT FESTIVAL AND MUST-VISIT ACTIVITIES

As winter settles over Melbourne, Docklands transforms into a vibrant hub of warmth and light. From 4 to 6 July 2025, the Firelight Festival returns, illuminating the waterfront with fiery spectacles, live performances, and culinary delights.


Firelight Festival Highlights

Dates: 4–6 July 2025
Time: 5:00 PM – 10:30 PM (Sun until 10:00 PM)
Location: Docklands – NewQuay Promenade, Victoria Promenade, Harbour Esplanade
Entry: Free

Key Attractions:

  • Amanda Parer's Illuminated Sculptures: Experience the Melbourne debut of Fantastic Planet and Man, towering inflatable humanoids that captivate audiences worldwide.

  • Light the Night Boat Display: Witness a flotilla of boats adorned with lights cruising the Yarra River, competing for the People's Choice Award.

  • Fire Performances: Be mesmerised by fire dancers, flame jets, and blazing arches that light up the night.

  • Live Entertainment: Enjoy a diverse lineup of musicians, dancers, and roving performers energising the festival atmosphere.

  • Family-Friendly Activities: Engage in storytelling sessions, neon face painting, and the River of Giants play space, featuring glowing native Australian animals.

  • Culinary Delights: Savour winter favourites from nearly 40 food trucks offering dishes like paella, smoked meats, s’mores, and hot chocolate. 


❄️ Additional Winter Activities in Docklands

  • O'Brien Icehouse: Located at 105 Pearl River Road, this premier ice sports venue offers public skating sessions, ice hockey games, and figure skating events.

  • The District Docklands: Explore a range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, including Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq and HOYTS cinema.

  • Docklands Public Art Walk: Discover over 60 pieces of public art throughout the precinct, including notable works like Cow Up a Tree and Bunjil.


Embrace the winter season by immersing yourself in the warmth and vibrancy of Docklands. Whether you're drawn by the fiery allure of the Firelight Festival or the myriad of other attractions, there's something for everyone to enjoy.