Docklands “roars” to life for Firelight

The 2024 Firelight Festival again attracted large crowds to Docklands between June 28 and 30 and beyond.

The City of Melbourne invested $1.6 million in this year’s Firelight Festival, which also included the never-before-seen Firelight Labyrinth from Mandylights. 

While the Firelight Labyrinth received mixed reviews from those who attended, its addition helped to “fuel the flame for an extra two weeks” according to Lord Mayor Nick Reece.

“Firelight Festival is always a beacon of light for visitors, residents and traders – and this year’s event was no exception,” Cr Reece said.

“Docklands roared to life over the free three-night festival, with Labyrinth fuelling the flame for an extra two weeks – attracting 100,000 visitors to Docklands and supporting 800 jobs.”  

“We’re really proud of events like the Firelight Festival, because it proves you can hold successful outdoor events even in the midst of a Melbourne winter. It’s also free to attend, making it welcoming for all members of our community.”

“I was there with my kids, and I can confidently say this festival has become a family favourite. Every year it’s developing and growing as a major event to fire up Melburnians in the colder months.”

The council’s city activation portfolio lead Cr Roshena Campbell added that Melbourne’s “enviable major events calendar isn’t slowing down, with Now or Never set to take over the city and Docklands in late August – bringing an estimated 200,000 attendees to the city.” •