An article including Mark Seymour performing with the Canberra Symphony Orchestra for the Enlighten Festival.

Author: Australian Leisure Management.

Date: 20 November 2025.

Original URL: https://www.ausleisure.com.au/news/16th-edition-of-enlighten-festival-to-transform-canberra-in-2026

Article Text

The Enlighten Festival returns in 2026 for its 16th edition, held over 11 nights from 27th February – 9th March, transforming Canberra into a city of light, art and imagination alongside offerings including Symphony in the Park.

Enlighten Festival is the only time Australia’s national cultural institutions unite to present original architectural projections and bold creative collaborations, creating a rare cultural moment that can only be experienced in the nation’s capital.

Enlighten invites audiences to see Canberra differently – to wander the National Triangle after dark as its most recognisable buildings become canvases for storytelling. This year’s Illuminations feature works by celebrated Australian artists including Kaylene Whiskey, Yarrenyty Arltere Artists and Grace Kemarre Robinya, Philip Bunting and Canberra’s own Eleanor and Giovanni, each bringing their own vision to the facades of cultural venues including Australian Parliament House; National Library of Australia; National Gallery of Australia; Questacon; National Portrait Gallery; and the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House.

Beyond the projections, one of the most anticipated moments each year is Symphony in the Park, a free outdoor concert in Commonwealth Park. Families, friends and visitors gather under the stars for an evening of music, food and connection. In 2026, the excitement reaches new heights as Mark Seymour of Hunters & Collectors joins the Canberra Symphony Orchestra, to showcase beloved classics like Holy Grail and Throw Your Arms Around Me in orchestral arrangements.

The Festival also spotlights local talent with short film festival Lights! Canberra! Action! on Friday 6th March and expands beyond the National Triangle through Enlighten: Beyond, inviting audiences to explore art, performance and unexpected encounters across Canberra.

Enlighten offers a rich program of experiences that bring Canberra’s cultural heart to life. From thought-provoking conversations at Luminous Ideas at the Canberra Theatre Centre to the immersive digital exhibition Leonardo da Vinci – 500 Years of Genius, audiences can dive deeper into creativity and discovery.

Enlighten 2026 will bring back some of its most loved experiences – and introduce exciting new surprises. A key highlight is Enlighten: The Night Shift, when many of Canberra’s cultural institutions open their doors for special evening access and programming. Expect creative experiences, immersive art, and thought-provoking events designed for fun makers, knowledge seekers, and the culturally curious.

The lively Festival Hub will once again be the social heart of the event with live music, roving performers, food and bars, while striking installations will transform the National Triangle into an outdoor gallery.

The full program will be announced in January.

Access more information.

Image. Enlighten Launch 2026 Canberra Symphony Orchestra, Mark Seymour, Chief Minister Ross Triffitt and Adam Deusien.

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