25 Sept – 11 Oct 2026 | Townsville, QLD

Program

The North Australian Festival of Arts program brings together a bold mix of performances, experiences, and creative encounters. From large-scale productions to intimate events, NAFA celebrates all forms of artistic expression. Browse the full lineup to explore what’s on offer — and find the moments that move, inspire, and entertain you.

2026 PROGRAM

Your festival adventure starts here. NAFA’s full 2026 lineup has landed with hundreds of performances across music, theatre, dance, circus, comedy, cabaret, visual arts and more. Browse the program, build your itinerary and book early to lock in the moments that will move, challenge and inspire you. Tickets are on sale now. Dive in and discover NorthQueensland’s boldest celebration of arts and culture.

BROWSE SHOWS BY GENRE

PRINTED PROGRAM

NAFA printed programs are available from Thurs 30 July and can be collected from these locations:

  • NAFA Box Office at Strand Park (from 16 Sept)
  • Aitkenvale Library
  • Ardo
  • Community Information Centre
  • Flinders Street Library
  • HeyDays Cafe
  • Mary Who? Bookshop
  • Queensland Country Bank, Willows
  • Squeeze Me
  • The Ville Resort-Casino
  • Townsville Civic Theatre
  • Townsville Shopping Centre
  • Umbrella Studio Contemporary Arts
  • Utopia Hair, Fairfield Central
  • Various cafes, hairdressers and shops across Townsville
  • White’s Corner Store

You can also view the digital program below and book your tickets now.

If you’re interested in distributing NAFA programs at your business, please email us at info@nafa-tsv.com.au

DIGITAL PROGRAM

If you prefer to have a digital version of the program, please click below to download and save to your computer. Start highlighting and booking your tickets now!

DAILY SCHEDULE + MAPS

Download the official daily schedule and festival hub map to plan your festival journey with ease. Explore the full program, highlight the performances that excite you most, and secure your tickets early. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned NAFA fan, this guide will help you make the most of every day.

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information at the time of publication. However, details are subject to change without notice. Always check the event listing or our socials for the most up-to-date information.

NAFA x Rachel Burke Collaboration

There’s a story behind this year’s cover, and it starts with a needle and thread.

The jacket and glasses gracing the NAFA 2026 program were designed and handcrafted by Brisbane artist Rachel Burke, whose work turns collecting, transforming and making into something entirely her own.

Rachel works across wearable art, installation, performance and craft, exploring memory, nostalgia and personal history through labour intensive, handmade pieces that blur the line between art, fashion and craft. It’s the same spirit that runs through NAFA itself: something a little unexpected, made with care, and built to be experienced up close.

This year’s cover is more than an image. It’s a piece of art in its own right.

We’re so excited to partner with Rachel and showcase her incredible wearable art on the front cover of the NAFA 2026 program. From the first stitch to the finished cover, it’s a little piece of NAFA you can hold in your hands.