Showcase your culture, talent, and passion
The National Multicultural Festival is a vibrant celebration of culture, creativity, and community—and performers are at the heart of it all. We welcome applications from a wide range of genres, including music, dance, song, spoken word, performance art, roving acts, and ceremonial presentations.
Performer pathways
There are three ways to take part in the 2026 National Multicultural Festival as a performer. Whether you're part of a community group, a professional artist or a passionate volunteer, there is a place for you in our stage performances, workshops, cooking demonstrations, cultural showcases, and as a parade participant. We encourage performers from all cultural backgrounds and artistic traditions to apply and share their stories with the Canberra community.
Professional performers
If you earn an income from your art and perform as part of your profession, this option is for you. Professional performers often have a portfolio of work, a public profile, and experience performing at festivals, events, or venues.
Volunteer performers
If you're performing as a hobby or as part of a community group, this is the option for you. Volunteer performers take part without funding and are often involved in local festivals, school performances, or grassroots events.
Grant supported programs
If you need financial help to bring your performance or activity to life, you can apply for a grant. Grants can cover costs like materials, transport, and costumes, and are ideal for those who want to participate but need a bit of extra support.
Key dates
- Applications open: 9 July 2025
- Applications close: 20 August 2025
- Notification period: October 2025
- Program allocation: December 2025
- Event dates: 6 to 8 February 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for more than one performance?
Yes you can.
If you're applying as a professional or volunteer performer, submit a separate application for each performance category (e.g. stage performance, community workshop, festival parade). Each application will be assessed individually.
For grant supported programs, submit one application per organisation. If you're applying for multiple activities under the same group (e.g. stage performance and cooking demo), include them all in a single application. If you're applying on behalf of different groups, submit a separate applications for each group.
Can international artists apply?
Yes, international artists can apply as professional or volunteer performers in any category. Grant applicants must have an Australian bank account or be auspiced by an Australian incorporated association.
If accepted, the festival team can provide a confirmation letter to support your visa application. For further visa help, please visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
When will I be notified about the outcome of my application?
All performer and grant applications will be reviewed between August and September 2025, with outcomes communicated to applicants in October or November 2025.
Please note that submitting an application—whether as a performer or for grant funding—does not guarantee a place in the festival program.
Can I request a specific time slot?
You can request a preferred day, but due to the size of the program, we ask performers to be available for the full weekend. Scheduling is at the festival team’s discretion.
Can I apply to be part of a cultural showcase?
Yes. Community groups must apply to be considered. Applications will be reviewed with Showcase Coordinators, and you’ll be notified once the program is finalised.