Free three-night spectacular brings fire, lasers, fountains and after-dark fun to Harbour Esplanade in July.
Firelight Festival is back to warm up Melbourne’s winter from Friday 3 to Sunday 5 July, transforming Docklands into a glowing playground of fire, light and live entertainment.
The City of Melbourne’s popular free event returns to Harbour Esplanade with over 130 performers, including fire artists, musicians and roving entertainers, promising a fiery escape for locals and visitors alike.
Firelight Festival 2026
- Free event running Friday 3 to Sunday 5 July at Harbour Esplanade, Docklands
- New laser and fountain spectacular plus fire performances each night
- Glow-in-the-dark pickleball, silent discos, 30 food trucks and venue specials
Check out our gig guide, our festival guide, our live music venue guide and our nightclub guide. Follow us on Instagram here.
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This year’s program turns up the spectacle with a brand-new large-scale laser and light show featuring 20 choreographed water fountains and 30 laser projectors spanning nearly 90 metres across the waterfront. Synchronised to music, the installation will light up the harbour twice nightly at 6.30pm and 8.30pm, set against the striking Echo installation of illuminated marine buoys.
Festivalgoers can also enjoy glow-in-the-dark pickleball tournaments at Docklands Community Hub Reserve, silent discos at MPavilion, and plenty of family-friendly activities.
30 food trucks will serve up winter warmers, from s’mores and hot chocolate to hearty street food, while local bars and restaurants offer special deals including fire-themed cocktails, two-for-one drinks and discounted dining packages.
Presented by the City of Melbourne with support from Development Victoria, Firelight Festival is expected to draw over 100,000 people across the weekend, breathing fresh energy into Docklands during the school holidays. With AFL games, waterfront views and plenty of hospitality options nearby, it’s the perfect excuse for a full winter night out.
Lord Mayor Nick Reece described it as Melbourne’s brightest winter event, while Tourism and Events portfolio head Cr Mark Scott highlighted its role in keeping the city vibrant year-round. Whether you’re chasing flames, lasers or just good times, Firelight Festival delivers a much-needed dose of warmth and wonder to kick off the July school break.
For more information about Firelight Festival, head here.
