Start planning your Waikato adventures, centred around the always-epic Hamilton Arts Festival Toi Ora ki Kirikiriroa from 20 February to 1 March, with the 2026 programme aptly shaped by the theme of joy
The eclectic programme brings together international performers, Aotearoa favourites, an expanded literary weekend and a vibrant mix of theatre, music, dance, comedy and family-friendly events.
Boasting almost 50 events set across the award-winning Hamilton Gardens, The Meteor Theatre and Riverlea Theatre, it’s the perfect excuse for a Waikato tour and to start planning your 2026 Festival experience!
Bold, breathtaking and human, Fijian Flying Circus is a world-first fusion of Indigenous storytelling and contemporary circus. Featuring a vibrant mix of jaw-dropping stunts, cheeky humour, and deep Fijian warmth, expect to laugh, gasp, and maybe even tear up as these incredible humans remind us that we’re all part of one big, flying family.
For something more risqué, Australia’s world-leading circus company Briefs Factory brings Dirty Laundry, a fast-paced, cheeky cabaret set to light up the Pavilion on the festival’s opening weekend.
With more glitter stains, grit, and ballsy attitude than ever before, these fabulous misfits deliver a night of breathtaking physicality, gob-smacking comedy, unapologetic truths, and ridiculous showmanship.
Kiwi icons Don McGlashan & The Others close out the 2026 season with a sunset concert on the Rhododendron Lawn, featuring special guest Hollie Smith.
After its stellar debut last year, HamLit, the ‘literary festival within a festival’, expands to include 11 events across the festival’s opening weekend, hosted primarily in the stunning Indian Char Bagh Garden.
The 49 ticketed events are just the beginning of the entertainment (but don’t miss out and book well in advance, as popular shows sell out early). Enjoy 15% off when you purchase tickets to three or more eligible shows.
Throughout the event, you can soak up the festival atmosphere and enjoy delicious kai at the beloved Festival Hub located in the Central Court of Hamilton Gardens. The Festival Hub and Grassroots Trust Stage (Turtle Lake Stage) showcase local talent every night of the festival from 5pm at no cost.
