Fed Square hosts free Studio Ghibli Afternoons series, bringing animated classics to Melbourne's iconic public space.
Fed Square will transform into an open-air cinema showcasing eight beloved Studio Ghibli films over four days.
The free mini outdoor film festival kicks off Monday, running through to Thursday with daily double features screening back-to-back. Each afternoon offers the perfect opportunity for families to experience the magic of Studio Ghibli’s vibrant landscapes and unforgettable characters.
Studio Ghibli Afternoons
• Where: Fed Square, Swanston St & Flinders St, Melbourne
• When: 14-17 April, screenings start at 2pm daily
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Deckchairs will be provided, though attendees are welcome to bring their own picnic rugs or camping chairs for maximum comfort during the screenings.
The carefully curated program begins on Monday with Castle in the Sky and Howl’s Moving Castle, followed by Tuesday’s pairing of Pom Poko and Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind. Wednesday features the family-friendly duo of My Neighbour Totoro and The Cat Returns, while Thursday closes the festival with Whisper of the Heart and the Academy Award-winning Spirited Away.
Monday’s program kicks off with Castle in the Sky (running time: 124 minutes, PG), a tale of discovery and courage exploring themes of innocence and ancient knowledge through the journey of Pazu and Sheeta. This will be followed by Howl’s Moving Castle (135 minutes, PG), a magical exploration of transformation and self-acceptance that follows Sophie as she’s cursed into an elderly form.
Tuesday brings Pom Poko (119 minutes, PG), a whimsical yet poignant exploration of environmentalism featuring shape-shifting raccoons protecting their home from urban expansion. The day concludes with Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (117 minutes, PG), a powerful tale of environmental stewardship set in a post-apocalyptic world.
Wednesday offers the gentlest programming with My Neighbour Totoro (86 minutes, G), a heartwarming celebration of childhood wonder following two young sisters and their encounters with forest spirits. The Cat Returns (75 minutes, G) follows, taking viewers on a whimsical adventure when Haru saves a cat prince and is thrust into a world of feline royalty.
Thursday closes the festival with Whisper of the Heart (151 minutes, PG), a tender coming-of-age story about self-discovery and creativity, followed by the beloved Spirited Away (125 minutes, PG), a mesmerising journey of transformation as Chihiro navigates a bathhouse filled with strange spirits.
All films have been selected with families in mind, with classifications ranging from G to PG, making the event accessible for moviegoers of all ages.
No bookings are required for this drop-in event, creating the perfect low-pressure activity for the school holiday period. Monday and Thursday screenings run until 6:30pm, while Tuesday and Wednesday conclude at 5pm.
The initiative adds to Fed Square’s growing reputation as a cultural hub, offering free entertainment options that introduce younger generations to internationally acclaimed cinema while providing a nostalgic experience for longtime fans.
For those planning their school holiday activities, Studio Ghibli Afternoons presents a budget-friendly option that combines entertainment with the opportunity to experience Melbourne’s iconic public space.
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