Auckland Live presents
Summer in the Square
11 December 2020 – 27 February 2021

The heart of central city channels the high seas this summer with the return of Auckland Live’s free inner-city festival Summer in the Square! Creating an urban marina within Aotea Square, the world-class programme of music and movies, and digital experiences will be complemented by the action of the biggest sporting event in the world, with broadcasts of the 36th America’s Cup Race screening live on the Auckland Live Digital Stage as it happens.

Anchored in the heart of Aotea Square, the huge 10m screen – roughly the size of an orca whale! – allows for unobstructed viewing of the action from anywhere in the Square, making sure that you’ll be able to catch every moment no matter where you decide to dock for the day.

Just one nautical mile away from the bustle of the Viaduct, Auckland Live’s Summer in the Square offers an ever-changing line-up of free entertainment, scheduled around race times. Live performances, chill vibe beats, and iconic DJ sets in partnership with Base FM will be pumping from the outdoor stage with headliners MELODOWNZ and Christmas Karaoke with Jackie Clarke in December and more to be announced in the New Year.

Need to keep the crew fed and watered? Head to Hello Sailor bar and picnic area, chill out in a bean bag, listen to sweet beats, and indulge in some of our delicious Kiwi summer food and beverage. Or head to the top deck – The Terrace Café overlooking the Aotea Square and the Digital Stage for a premium experience with a full menu and beverage list. It’s the perfect atmosphere to settle in for a day’s cruise into town. And with plenty of carparks available around Aotea Square, access is easy for all keen to avoid the gridlock of downtown.

Alongside the sailing, the Auckland Live Digital Stage will transform into an outdoor cinema, boasting a curated selection of films and experiences to keep the kids and movie buffs alike entertained. With blockbusters and new releases on Thursday evenings to enjoy after work, to family friendly programming on Sunday afternoons, there is truly a film to suit every taste playing free on the big screen. Start your summer movie escape with the fun and cruisy vibe of Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation on Sunday 13 December.

In between the yacht racing and movie magic, Aotea Symphony, an interactive sound experience will be taking over the Auckland Live Digital Stage. Passers-by are invited to create their very own symphony using surrounding sounds just by stepping on the buttons on the ground.

As the centre of the city comes alive with summer events, Summer in the Square will be the home base for all the action, with activations running Thursdays – Sundays. The season begins with a festive twist, as the giant Christmas tree in the middle of the Square takes up residence from 11 December. Taking a break for the holidays, the activity restarts on Friday 15 January, providing the perfect setting to celebrate Auckland Anniversary, Auckland Pride Festival, Waitangi Day, and Auckland Fringe Festival – all offering their own special event programmes as the summer stretches on and 2021 offers a fresh perspective.

 

Auckland Live’s Summer in the Square

For more info and the BaseFM DJ line up head to AucklandLive.co.nz

Free and all ages
#summerinthesquare @aucklandlive

Click here for the full programme.