A joyful and vibrant line-up revealed for Hamilton Arts Festival
The Hamilton Arts Festival Toi Ora ki Kirikiriroa will bring a joyous and eclectic line-up over 10 days from February 20 to March 1, 2026.
Festival organisers launched the 2026 programme to a VIP group of invited guests and supporters at Hamilton Gardens on Wednesday.
The festival has a core theme of Joy and will feature over 800 artists, and 49 shows including international performers like the Fijian Flying Circus and Brazilian music, and dance act Flamencodanza, as well as Aotearoa’s favourites, including Award winning singer-songwriter Don McGlashan and special guest, Hollie Smith.
Organisers also highlighted an expansive literature weekend and a variety of theatre, dance, comedy, music, and whānau-friendly events.
The festival was described by chair Chris Williams as one of the best in Aoteoroa and “the most exciting 10 days on the Hamilton calendar”. He said the reputation of the festival has grown significantly over the past 6 years and it was on a firm footing both financially and creatively.
Williams presented outgoing committee member Graeme Cairns with a gift for his 8 years of service and paid tribute to the sponsors, sponsors, committee, festival team, and volunteers behind the event.
Councillor Angela O’Leary spoke on behalf of council and described dynamic Festival Director, Geoff Turkington as “someone who’d make a Jack of all Trades look like a mere multi-tasker”.
Turkington said, “We know that for many, life continues to be challenging, which is why the theme of joy feels more important than ever. It is also a programme that truly embraces our magical point of difference to any other event of its kind, our beloved Hamilton Gardens.”
Turkington said associate director Nick Walsh was “the best wingman and perfect working partner-in-crime” and acknowledged the 100 volunteers “who are the backbone of the event”.
The Hamilton Arts Festival will be a bright and vibrant welcome to the new year, bringing the community together.
Tickets can be purchased at hamiltonartsfestival.co.nz. Free printed programmes will be available at the Hamilton Gardens, Hamilton City Council, and cafés throughout Kirikiriroa Hamilton.
