From 14 January 2022, a kaleidoscope of free experiences and events will take over Fed Square as the iconic destination welcomes Melburnians back, joining a blockbuster summer of creative activities across the city. Spanning live music, public art, interactive installations, films, exhibitions and workshops, the diverse program will see Fed Square become the Kaleidosquare.
As the city reclaims its appetite for things to see and do, visitors to the Square will experience a larger-than-life, inflatable Koi fish fountain, a series of live gigs, a silo art trail in the heart of the CBD, a mesmerising candlelight concert series, a powerful photography exhibition and so much more.
CUPID’s Koi Garden by ENESS
Between 21 January – 6 February, Fed Square will be transformed with a new outdoor, interactive playground inhabited by an enormous and impressively colourful Koi fish fountain by ENESS. On a mission to spread love and joy, see the world’s first inflatable five-metre-high fountain of fantastical fish surrounding the character Cupid who cheekily squirts water.
Fed Live
Free gigs will return to Fed Square’s Main Stage in 2022, featuring performances by Grammy-nominated, Australian jazz and funk band Hiatus Kaiyote, alt-pop artist Dylan J, songstress Bumpy, soul-pop artist AKOSIA, and Melbourne rock trio The Grogans, across the summer. A special tribute to French electro house legends Daft Punk will see DJ Andy Murphy and Daft Punk Discovery light up the stage on Saturday 15 January.
Fed Summer Films
Running between 15 – 26 January, there will be a rotating program of classic films on the big screen for a balmy outdoor summer cinema experience, screening classics including Jaws, Jurassic Park, Muriel’s Wedding, Strictly Ballroom, Priscilla Queen of the Desert, and more old school favourites.
Candlelight Concert Series with Fever
Just in time for Valentine’s Day, be wowed by a free open-air concert series illuminating Fed Square by candlelight. Having graced intimate and undiscovered venues across the globe, this special series is making its way to Fed Square on February 14, 18 and 26, with classical musicians performing everything from Bach to The Beatles.
Fed Oasis
Your summertime oasis will undergo a colourful makeover this year with artist takeovers. The Fed Square deck chairs will be redesigned to feature bespoke, evocative works by three prominent graffiti artists including Sofles. New and fun rotational chairs by architectural designer Thomas Heatherwick will also be introduced to the Square so you can take relaxation to the next level with a literal ‘spin’.
While you’re there, see the giant Fed Square letters transformed by First Nations artist Robert Michael Young who will reimagine the iconic letters for summer. And keep an eye out for free ice cream, impromptu performances, specials giveaways and more!
Urban Silo Trail
Bringing Victoria’s iconic silo artworks to our doorstep, you can embark on a mini silo art trail in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD between 21 Jan – 31 March. Curated by Juddy Roller, witness this innovative art project come to life at Fed Square that will see renowned street artists Adnate, Kitt Bennett and Jimmy Dvate transform miniature wheat silos into impressive works of art.
Reconstruct (the) Normative by Soraya Zaman
From 28 January – 10 February, a large-scale bridge installation will be displayed in The Atrium featuring a raw and powerful photography exhibition. Titled Reconstruct (the) Normative, this thought-provoking exhibit explores the notions of gender and sexuality; a snapshot of the journeys across the transmasculine spectrum through the lens of Australian-born photographer, Soraya Zaman.
Connecting Worlds with Words
A grassroots event on 19 February featuring live spoken word performances from three locations – Fed Square, Bunjil Place in the City of Casey and Aotea Square in Auckland. 12 poets will explore the theme of connection through spoken word, in a simultaneously livestreamed event bringing together Australia and New Zealand.
The Summer of Sport will also return to Fed Square’s big screen showcasing major sporting events including the Australian Open, Super Bowl, AFLW, Winter Olympics and more.
Home to leading cultural institutions including The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, Koorie Heritage Trust and ACMI, as well as diverse dining options such as Hero, Big Esso and Atiyah, Fed Square is the place to be this Summer.
Minister for Creative Industries Danny Pearson said, “The city is going to be alive with events and activities, with something for everyone this summer. Whether it’s live music, movies, sport or art, there’s something at Fed Square for everyone – come in and enjoy the fun.”
Fed Square CEO Caroline Ralphsmith said, “Summer is going to be bigger and better than ever in the city this year. There’s a real buzz around Fed Square’s restaurants, cafes, bars, cinemas and galleries that’s enticing people to rediscover the best of Melbourne. As well as quality food and drinks, Fed Square is putting on over 160 free events including impressive art installations, film screenings, major live performances and thought-provoking exhibitions this summer. We are bringing iconic, colourful scenes from around Victoria to our doorstep to celebrate Victorian creativity and to continue to reenergise the heart of the city.”
All events during Summer at Fed Square are free, unless otherwise specified. For the full program of entertainment and events, visit fedsquare.com/kaleidosquare.
