Floriade looks good in the day but just wait until you see its dark side. 

NightFest returns from Thursday 1 to Sunday 4 October, transforming Commonwealth Park from a sea of spring colour into glowing garden beds, immersive light installations and four nights of live music and entertainment. 

Here’s what’s happening after dark. 

 

A Headliner Every Night 

Each night brings a different headline act to Stage 88, so you can pick your favourite or make a few nights of it. 

  • Thursday 1 October: Tim Finn 
  • Friday 2 October: Busby Marou and Christine Anu 
  • Saturday 3 October: Pacific Avenue 
  • Sunday 4 October: The Temper Trap 

The wider line-up includes Lily B, The Jack Biilmann Band, Sam Sly, Stella Eve, The Filthy Darlings and TENDA, alongside DJs including Dimsim, Babyhope, DRAGÖN and Krypt & Faye. 

 

More Than Just Music 

There’s plenty happening between sets too. 

Across the park you’ll find fire performances, street theatre, Drag Bingo, DJs, illuminated roving performers and plenty of family-friendly activities. There are also lantern-making workshops each evening, followed by a lantern parade through the NightFest grounds at 7.30pm. 

The entertainment is spread across several stages and spaces, so you can wander between performances, explore the glowing gardens and stop for something to eat along the way. 

 

Before You Go 

A few things worth knowing before you head in: 

  • Gates open at 6.30pm and close at 10.30pm, with last entry at 10pm. 
  • Chairs are welcome, but keep them to the back or sides of grassy viewing areas so everyone gets a clear view. 
  • There’s no re-entry once you leave. 
  • NightFest is accessible, with mobility hire available on site and Companion Cards accepted. 
  • The free NightFest shuttle runs every 10 minutes, with services from the city and National Triangle to the event gates. 

Daytime Floriade is one thing. Seeing the gardens lit up with live music, performances and crowds wandering through after dark is another. 

 

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: 

Location: Commonwealth Park, Regatta Place, Parkes 

Dates/Times: Thursday 1 to Sunday 4 October 2026, 6:30pm to 10:30pm 

Ticketing/Booking: Ticketed event. Adult $41.50, Concession $36.50, Child (5 to 16) $31.50, Family (4 people) $114.50. Kids 4 and under free. Booking fees apply. 

Find out more HERE