Albany 2026
In 2026, Albany will host Western Australia’s first bicentenary, acknowledging the first place where Aboriginal and British people commenced living together on the western side of Australia.
Image: Kirli Saunders, First Lights – Buungbaa-ma-ndhu, 2023. Photo: Brian Ramsey. Commissioned by Ngununggula and Fremantle Biennale
A year of culture, reflection and connection
At the heart of Albany 2026 is a story far older than two centuries. This is Menang Noongar Boodja; ancient country with deep cultural roots, where stories have been passed down for countless generations and continue to be shared today.
A year-long program of major cultural events focused on honest reflection, community celebration, and future focused aspirations will form the foundation of this milestone, and we want to see you there.
Featured Events
Major Event
Albany Then & Now: Historical Panoramas of Menang Noongar Boodja
Explore the story of Albany/Kinjarling through a visually rich exhibition featuring panoramic projections across a 180-degree screen.
12th Dec – 1st June 2026, 10:00AM – 4:00PM - *Public holiday hours may vary
Major Event
Kaya 2026 – New Year’s Eve Picnic and Fireworks
Join us this New Year’s Eve as we welcome 2026 together.
31st December 2025, 5:00PM – 12:00AM
Major Event
First Lights Kinjarling
First Lights Kinjarling will bring those deep-time stories into the skies, using cutting-edge drone technology to illuminate ancient narratives shared by Menang Elders.
6th Mar – 8th March 2026, 6:30PM – 8:30PM
Major Event
Lighting the Sound
An Australian-first event spanning across three weekends in March 2026.
13th Mar – 15th March 2026, starts 6:30PM - From sunset20th Mar – 22nd March 2026, starts 6:30PM - From sunset27th Mar – 29th March 2026, starts 6:30PM - From sunset
The Program
The Albany 2026 program features a dynamic mix of Major Events and community-led initiatives that place the Albany community at the heart of this historic milestone.
Supported by Lotterywest, the Major Events will unite people through powerful arts and cultural experiences that celebrate diverse perspectives, advance reconciliation, and preserve Albany’s rich heritage for future generations. From immersive exhibitions and performances to storytelling and hands-on workshops, these events honour the past while shaping a vibrant, inclusive future.
Complementing the Major Events is a wide range of community-led activations that reflect the region’s deep cultural roots and future aspirations. Together, the program fosters shared cultural expression, intergenerational dialogue, and a lasting legacy for the Great Southern.
