If you’re one of the unlucky folks who missed out on a ticket to see Irish hip hop outfit Kneecap on their debut Australian tour, there’s good news in the pipeline, with the trio announcing a free pop-up gig in Naarm/Melbourne’s Federation Square this Monday.

The group will kick off their Australian trek this weekend with an appearance at the Golden Plains festival, before heading to Melbourne proper for a headline show at 170 Russell. However, fans might want to get to the city a little earlier to catch the band playing a free show.

Taking place on the Labour Day public holiday – Monday, March 10th – the festivities all kick off from 4pm, with DJ Darcy Justice getting the crowd ready before Kneecap themselves take the stage for a 30-minute performance.

“We’re buzzing to be able to put on this free show for the people of Naarm,” the band said in a statement. We’re already playing three shows in the city, and they sold out in no time so this will be mental.”

Indeed, following their first show in Victoria, they’ll head up north for a show in Brisbane, before returning for two shows in Melbourne. After heading to Sydney, the group will wrap up their Aussie visit with a show in Perth. All shows to Kneecap's Australian tour are sold out.

This isn’t the first big-name free gig that has taken place at Fed Square in recent months, with the likes of Caribou, Robbie Williams, and more all gracing the stage.

“Fed Square has always been a destination for live music, but this summer’s program has proved that it is an incredible venue for high-quality gigs!” said Katrina Sedgwick, the Director and CEO of the Melbourne Arts Precinct Corporation. “It’s central, has a dynamic outdoor stage and capacity for large crowds to come together and enjoy a melting pot of performances.

“Kneecap’s surprise set will be no exception to the unforgettable gigs we’ve put on this summer, and we look forward to hearing the group’s distinctive Irish tongue takeover the city centre.”

While punters are advised to get down early to take part in the fun, they’re also advised that Kneecap’s set will contain some explicit language.

Kneecap – comprising Mo Chara, Móglaí Bap and DJ Próvaí – formed in 2017, and have gained widespread attention for their blend of Irish and English rapping, and their support of Irish republicanism. Their second album, 2024's Fine Art, gained widespread acclaim, and were the subject of an eponymous comedy-drama from director Rich Peppiatt.