Reflecting on 2026, Looking Forward to 2027

Opera in the Orchard March 28th 2026

As we look back on the 2026 Shepparton Arts Festival, we're filled with gratitude for the artists, audiences, volunteers, partners and supporters who helped make this year's Festival such a memorable celebration of creativity across Greater Shepparton.

For ten days in March, our region came alive with visual art, music, theatre, workshops, exhibitions and community events that invited people to gather, explore new ideas and connect through shared creative experiences. From large-scale performances to intimate exhibitions and hands-on workshops, the Festival showcased the incredible depth of talent within our region while welcoming artists and visitors from further afield.

Every Festival tells a story, and 2026 was one of collaboration, curiosity and community. It was inspiring to see people of all ages discovering new artists, attending their first Festival event, reconnecting with favourite experiences and supporting local creatives. Those moments of conversation, connection and discovery are what the Shepparton Arts Festival is all about.

Festivals don't happen without an enormous collective effort, and we'd like to extend our sincere thanks to everyone who played a part. To our artists and presenters, thank you for sharing your work and trusting us with your creative vision. To our volunteers, staff and Board, thank you for your dedication, generosity and countless hours behind the scenes. To our sponsors, funding partners and supporters, thank you for your continued investment in arts and culture and in the creative future of our region. And to every audience member who attended an event, purchased a ticket, volunteered their time or spread the word, thank you for being part of our Festival community.

While we're proud of what was achieved in 2026, our focus has now turned firmly towards the future.

Planning is already underway for the 2027 Shepparton Arts Festival, and we're excited to begin sharing what's in store over the coming months. Fresh ideas are beginning to emerge as we build another program that celebrates creativity, diversity and connection across our region.

For those who like to plan ahead, save the date:

2027 Shepparton Arts Festival will take place from 12 - 21 March 2027.

Whether you've been attending the Festival for years or are thinking about joining us for the first time, we can't wait to welcome you back next March.

Until then, thank you for continuing to support the arts in Greater Shepparton. The Festival may only happen once a year, but the creativity, collaboration and community it celebrates continue all year round.

We'll see you in March 2027.