The year 2026 is significant because it marks Albany’s bicentenary (200th anniversary). This year, Albany’s WA Day Festival taps into the landmark celebration with more fun, but it’s shaping up to be more than just a celebration. Expect meaningful moments that reflect on the stories, people and cultures that have shaped the region over generations.
Set against the congruent backdrop of the Museum of the Great Southern, the free community event on Monday, June 1 invites all locals and visitors to come together for a day of celebrating Albany.
“We’re excited to bring WA Day to life with a full day of free, family-friendly experiences right here at the Museum,” operations manager Ian Westmore said.
“From live music and cultural demonstrations to iconic activities like the Thong Throwing Competition, we want to create something everyone can enjoy.”
Things to do
Free, family-friendly program
There’s a full program of free activities currently being organised to spark creativity and connection, including:
- The iconic Thong Throwing Competition, with sessions for kids and adults
- Hands-on craft activities and messy play for little ones
- Face painting, bouncy castles and outdoor games
- Cultural exhibitions, interactive displays and a wide range of stallholders
- Free entry to the historic Brig Amity on the day
- Live on location with Great Southern FM broadcasting straight from the Museum, bringing the energy of the day to life
Hands-on cultural experiences Highly respected Menang Noongar man Larry Blight of Kurrah Mia will lead live Aboriginal toolmaking demonstrations, offering a rare opportunity to learn about traditional materials, techniques and the deep cultural knowledge behind them.
Living Histories At the heart of this year’s celebration across WA is the Living Histories program, a powerful showcase of voices from across the community. With representation from Filipino, Italian and Menang Noongar communities, the program invites festivalgoers to engage with cultural traditions and interactive storytelling experiences that reflect Albany’s rich identity.
Things to see
Albany Then and Now exhibition Dive into the region’s past and present through the immersive “Albany Then and Now” exhibition, exploring 200 years of history as part of the bicentenary commemorations. This exhibition features a large curved-screen showcasing an immersive audio-visual experience narrated by local experts and historians. Using digital technology enhancements, interactive kiosks and hands-on activations, you and the kids can journey through time and place.
Diverse performances You can look forward to a strong line-up of local performers, all showcasing Albany’s talented and vibrant creative community.
Stage highlights under the huge marquee include:
- BilyaBeats, the Indigenous acoustic duo of Rachel Colmer and David Rastrick
- Combined choir performances from Albany Senior High School and North Albany Senior High School
- The Valdoonicans performing lively Irish favourites
- Bird on a Wire Choir, featuring around 30 local voices
- Jamie the Clown bringing laughs for younger audiences
Museum in a Container
The WA Museum is bringing its Museum in a Container to the Museum of the Great Southern. The immersive display explores the important role of cameleers and camels in WA’s history, with stories, objects, and interactive displays. Plus, don’t miss Naqa, the life‑size camel!
Things to eat
No WA Day celebration is complete without great food. Festivalgoers can expect a variety of food vendors serving up delicious bites throughout the day, offering something to suit every taste while you relax and soak up the atmosphere.
The Albany WA Day Festival is a free celebration running from 10am – 2pm on June 1, focused on culture, community and creativity. For more information, you can visit the website.
