ON THE STREETS
Expect a lively atmosphere with performances happening on the streets in delightfully unexpected places thoughout the Festival. Listen out for choirs and roaming minstrels, and watch out for dance troupes and street performers strutting their stuff. A highlight of these performances is that they are 'off grid' and often the thing you didn't know you needed, captivating your attention and lifting spirits as you move through the Festival site.
Read on below for some highlights to look out for in 2026!
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ON THE STREETS IN 2026
Around every corner of the Festival, something unexpected unfolds. Be swept up in a procession, drawn into spontaneous singing, or pause to watch as dancing erupts around you. The Village Green is our outdoor venue where you can find planned performances but look out for folks performing across the whole site. And don't forget to prepare for the Festival Parades!
The streets ring out with loud, proud brass from Invy Horn Jam and the protest-fuelled energy of Riff Raff Radical Marching Band.
Dance traditions appear in many forms, from the ritual steps of Australian Morris Ring, the Transylvanian sounds of Kengugró & The Transylvaniacs, the energy of the Dividing Range Dancers, and Indonesian movement and music with Suara Dance.
Voices rise unexpectedly as choirs gather and disperse including surprise appearances from the Spooky Men’s Chorale. Find Liz Frencham delivering her Steampunk Standards and join the Shanty Singers for a song or two.
Enjoy the Solidarity in Song concert series each morning featuring choirs Gaumarjos, Kompactus, Kooskõlas and Ecopella offering their collective voices in songs of protest, peace, resilience and hope.
FESTIVAL PARADES
The Lantern Parade takes place on Sunday evening, parading through the Festival site bringing light and laughter with it. Take part by making lanterns throughout the weekend at FamilyFest or join the Riff Raff Radical Marching Band daily ensemble or kids’ workshop, with all instruments and experience levels welcome. Meet at the Village Green at 7:50pm to prepare before setting off at 8:10pm.
The Festival Parade on Monday leads to the Farewell Concert. March from the start or join in as it passes by. Visit the Community Arts Tent during the Festival to find out how to get involved, or for the musically inclined, join the MarimbaTaters Family Band to perform at the Parade’s conclusion. Meet at the Family Marquee at 4:20pm to prepare before setting off at 4:50pm.