This winter, expect the unexpected at Fed Square with a packed program of cultural activities.
Fed Square winter festivities have become a cultural icon and we’re thrilled to see it’s back again this year, after a hiatus in 2020. Melburnians can now enjoy the jam-packed Anything But Square Winter Program spanning art and cultural activities celebrating everything French! With a full 6 weeks of activity, rally your amis (friends) to experience a cultural destination transformed through a kaleidoscope of new experiences. We’ve highlighted our top picks for all the must-see attractions in the program.
The Knot
First stop, The Knot. Taking center-stage at Fed Square between July 15 until September 5, you can’t miss this bright pink artwork. It’s big, it’s bold, and it’s sure to look great on your Instagram grid. This immersive piece of art has been created by French visual artist Cyril Lancelin. It’s an impressive fluorescent Fuschia knot that will be lighting up the Melbourne sky all through winter.
A Taste of the Knot
The surrounding bars, restaurants and cafes are turning pink, launching new menu additions to match the festivities. Whether you want to sip on boissons roses (pink drinks), try the flavour of the month riz en rose (rosewater rice pudding) or go all out with a full-blown French-inspired six-course degustation: there’s something for all foodies.
Curious Creatures
Each Friday and Saturday evening from July 23 – August 21, Fed Square welcomes mystical creatures from another realm. Do you dare make your way down the rabbit hole to meet them? As you stroll around the square, perhaps you’ll find yourself tailed by The Messenger – a glowing yet graceful futuristic archangel, carrying with it a message of light and love. Or, maybe you’ll catch The Skulls Squires, intergalactic visitors from another world, trying to engage you in their mischievous plots.
Frenchy Weekends Film Festival & Live Music
Presented in partnership with Alliance Française de Melbourne from 27 August – 5 September, Frenchy Weekends will be devoted entirely to French films and music. Every weekend, Fed Square’s Main Stage will host a selection of live musical acts, getting you in the mood for the Frenchy Weekends Film Festival film to follow. Expect electronic music, DJs, cabaret and live jazz musicians, think of it as the musical entrée to the film plat principal.
Frenchy Fed Free Workshops
Have you ever wanted to host a party like a tres chic French girl? Or, learn to paint like Monet? Or, get to know the mode de vie français (french lifestyle) filled with simplicity and sophistication? No you can. In partnership with Alliance Française de Melbourne, take advantage of a full program of free workshops and events.
Bastille Day
If your wanderlust is calling and you’re craving a trip to Europe, the Bastille Day French Festival will transport you there. Eat your way through the French Winter Market featuring Melbourne’s best French stalls selling mulled wine, crepes, croissants, pastries, cheese and Armagnacs. Or, learn about French culture with a series of Les Lumieres talks discussing history, art, wine, culture and sustainability.
The Winter Village
Sure, Melbourne gets cold in winter, but it’s not quite the alps. Although, The Winter Village will let you pretend, just for a little while, that you are high up on a mountain frolicking in the snow. Get cosy in this magical igloo village and enjoy ice-skating, fit for beginners through to seasoned pros, feast on delicious eats from food trucks guaranteed to warm the belly and visit the Sip Bar for espresso martinis and hot toddies. Plus, you can even hire your own igloo.
For the full program, click here