Free candlelight concerts, classic film screenings and love songs for the city – Fed Square's Valentine's week is full of suprises.
Love is in the air and Fed Square has packed the program with more fun and unexpected events all week long. Whether you’re planning an extra-special date night or just a day full of fun, the Square has something for everyone.
See rising star Budjerah sing his heart out in the twinkling twilight, boogie down with a Jamaican patty in your hand at the Afro-Carribean Carnival or see Taylor Swift impersonator Taylor Sheesh strut her stuff on the main stage – it’s going to be a good one.
Get your planners out, because here’s what’s happening at Fed Square from February 13 to 19.
The Sentimental Bloke with Live Score by Paul Mac
- Tuesday, February 13
- Main Square
- Free
- From 8pm
Cinema and music combine in this thrilling screening of one of Australia’s oldest films. Directed by Raymond Longford, The Sentimental Bloke came out in 1919 and follows the story of the relationship between Bill and Doreen in cosmopolitan Sydney.
The film will be accompanied by a live musical score created by electronic artist and composer Paul Mac, adding extra intrigue and drama to this piece of Australian cultural history.
Summer Films: La La Land
- Wednesday 14 February
- Big Screen
- Free
- La La Land commences at 8pm
The winner of an incredible six Academy Awards, everyone collectively fell in love with this captivating musical, following the love story between aspiring actress Mia (Emma Stone) and jazz musician Sebastian (Ryan Gosling) in L.A. Expect vibrant visuals, enchanting music, and heartfelt performances: the perfect film for a Fed Square screening.
What’s more, La La land will be accompanied by three acclaimed short film screenings; Voice, Katele (Mudskipper) and (You’ll Make It In) Florida. Plus, thanks to Cebu Pacific, Fed Square will be handing out 250 free buckets of popcorn to people watching the movie.
Melbourne Conversations: Love Song Dedications to Melbourne
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- Wednesday, February 14
- Main Square
- Free
This Valentine’s Day, Fed Square is showing a little love to our all-time favourite city by bringing together a range of talented musicians to share love songs dedicated to Melbourne.
Featuring tunes and tracks by Adriana, Uncle Kutcha Edwards, Russel Howcroft, RVG and Chris Gill, this heartwarming event is the perfect way to spend your Valentine’s Eve. But if you’re hungry…
Valentine’s Day at Big Esso
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- Wednesday, February 14
- Big Esso by Mabu Mabu
- Various prices
Treat your special someone to a culinary extravaganza at Big Esso by Mabu Mabu. The Torres Strait Islander restaurant specialises in using traditional Australian ingredients unlikely to be found in many other Melbourne kitchens.
Think crocodile ribs, emu heart, marinated tamarind and other delicious botanicals native to our fair country. Including five courses and a glass of champagne, this is the kind of V-Day dinner that will make an impression.
Budjerah by Candlelight
- Thursday, February 15
- Main Square
- Free
- From 8.30pm
Didn’t cram enough romance into your Valentine’s Day? This intimate performance by one of Melbourne’s favourite musical darlings is just what you need.
Surrounded by hundreds of glittering candles, Coodjinburra singer-songwriter Budjerah will bring his catchy tracks and buttery-smooth voice to the heart of the Square. Grab a blanket and your best friends – this is set to be one magical evening.
Taylor Sheesh
- Friday, February 16
- Main Square
- Free
- 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm
The Eras tour is almost here and if you want to get yourself extra hyped, long-time fan and Taylor Swift impersonator Taylor Sheesh will be taking over Fed Square for a party like no other. Expect to sing your heart out to your favourite tunes and dance the night away.
Taylor Sheesh will be joined by vogue performers from The House of Diesel, dance pop-ups from Body Electric, Bollywood dancing with Sapphire Dance and performances from First Nations artist 2Joocee and Chelsea Wilson, plus cheerleading with Outlaw All Stars.
Anticipating a sea of Taylor look-alikes, Fed Square is inviting guests to dress as their favourite Taylor for a chance to win a trip for two to the Philippines (valued at $5,000 AUD!), courtesy of Cebu Pacific Air and Melbourne Airport. The best-dressed Taylor will be selected on the night and awarded their prize on stage by the Queen herself, Taylor Sheesh. Please note that the competition is only available to those over 18, but all are welcome to come dressed to participate in the dress-up extravaganza.
Afro-Caribbean Carnival
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- Saturday, February 17
- Main Square & The Atrium
- Free
Happening for the first time at Fed Square, this huge party will bring the vibrant sounds and flavours of Afro-Caribbean culture to the heart of the CBD. Dressing up is highly recommended for this amazing party, featuring legendary picó soundsystems (huge technicolour (often fluorescent) systems that are custom-built to blast out vinyl records of Afro-Colombian music).
The program is stacked with talent from the UK to Jamaica – catch sets by Saxon Sound System, Spikey Tee, Housewife’s Choice, Heartical Hi Powa, D.I.Y.HiFi and El Gran Mono as well as a dazzling dance performance. On the menu, find favourites dished up by The Real Jerk, Angie’s Kitchen and Oz Brazilian BBQ.
Browse the full Summer at the Square 2024 program here.
