Dark Mofo 2026 opens to audiences in Lutruwita/Tasmania today, with over 100,000 people expected to welcome the cold embrace of winter amid a packed program of art, live music, performances and more.
The midwinter festival commences with The Gathering, a First Nations-led night of music and storytelling at the Winter Feast, alongside the opening of Dark Park—where visitors can explore the transformed freight decks of the Spirit of Tasmania V in the company of roving robot “dogs” by Lolo and Sosaku.
Performances by Dry Cleaning and Danny Brown kick off the music program at the Odeon, with Iglooghost first up at Altar Bar. At Launceston’s Albert Hall, Folk Bitch Trio will weave layered folk epics, and Baker Boy burns bright with hip hop that cuts deep.
North Hobart’s former piano showroom will host two free, one-off performances this weekend—Fakahoka by Kalisolaite ‘Uhila, one of New Zealand’s most renowned endurance artists, on Friday 12 June (doors at 7.30pm), and Un muro que parte el cuerpo en dos (A wall that breaks the body in two) by Kiyo Gutiérrez on Saturday 13 June (doors at 7.15pm).
Artistic Director Chris Twite said: ‘This is the moment the festival comes to life. Over the next two weeks we’ll see artworks spreading across land and sea, live music ringing out in Hobart and Launceston, late night revelry and feasting by firelight. I can’t wait to get into it.’
Executive Director Melissa Edwards said: ‘It is so special seeing Tasmania get on board with Dark Mofo once again. We’re grateful for the support from local and state government, all the businesses and residents who Paint the Town Red, and to our partners and teams who make it all happen, not to mention everyone who attends and embraces everything the festival has to offer.’
Dark Mofo continues through 22 June, culminating in the annual Nude Solstice Swim at Long Beach following the longest night of the year.
Over 55,000 tickets have been sold, with some still available for purchase at darkmofo.net.au.
