Midsumma Festival 2026

Overview

The good vibes will be off the charts when the next edition of Midsumma Festival arrives, with Victoria's premier LGBTQIA+ annual event serving up 22 days of bright and bold happenings. Running from Sunday, January 18–Monday, February 2, 2026, expect the full spectrum of rainbow-tinged creativity, with over 250 events and 500 artists and culture-makers ensuring this festival is better than ever.

In 2026, Midsumma Festival's theme is 'Time & Place,' recognising the present as a pivotal moment where connection matters more than ever. As such, the sprawling program centres on community, with art exhibitions, inspiring conversations and free outdoor celebrations shaping an uplifting experience. Kicking off with the much-loved ​​Midsumma Carnival at Alexandra Gardens, this iconic event sets the tone for the entire festival before an incredible variety of events unfold over the next three-plus weeks.

On Saturday, January 24, catch Kiki House of Furia Presents: The Fantasy Ball at State Library Victoria. Combining ballroom and voguing culture amid the grand Queen's Hall, the night celebrates artistry and resilience, complete with multiple categories, judges and DJs. Then, on Sunday, January 25, The Timber Yard hosts Hot and Steamy — a beloved LGBTQIA+ party hailing from Far North Queensland. Think a transformative tropical paradise graced by infectious rhymes and headlined by Drag Race Global superstar Kween Kong.

Looking ahead to Sunday, January 31, the Blankë POP Secret Garden Party takes over The Mission to Seafarers Courtyard in Docklands. Dress up, or down, as you dance the afternoon away to queer house music alongside performances by some of Melbourne's most talented artists. Then, following the Midsumma Pride March, Sunday Sizzle serves up a stellar afterparty at the Victorian Pride Centre on Sunday, February 1, lighting up the rooftop with fab performances, refreshing beverages and tasty snags fresh off the barbie.

Nocturnal x Midsumma