The Australia Day Council of South Australia has released the program for Australia Day 2026, with a free, inclusive line-up of events to be held on Monday 26 January at Elder Park/Tarntanya Wama and surrounding locations.
The 2026 program reflects the Council’s overarching theme Respect. Reflect. Celebrate., and the event theme Our Continuing Story, recognising the diversity of cultures, histories and experiences that shape Australia today.
Held at Elder Park/Tarntanya Wama on the banks of the River Torrens/Karrawirra Parri, Australia Day will be marked through two bookend hero events: Mourning in the Morning and the Aus Lights Program in the evening.
Mourning in the Morning
7.30am – 8.45am | Elder Park/Tarntanya Wama
Mourning in the Morning is a First Nations–led ceremony shaped by South Australian Aboriginal leaders and grounded in the Our Continuing Story conversation.
The event includes a Welcome to Kaurna Country and a smoking ceremony conducted by Elder Uncle Moogy Sumner, alongside First Nations speakers, contemporary music and dance. The ceremony is open to all Australians and provides a space for reflection.
21 Gun Salute
12.00pm – 12.15pm | Torrens Parade Ground
A traditional 21 Gun Salute will take place at Torrens Parade Ground as part of the official Australia Day commemorations.
Aus Lights on the River
5.00pm – 11.00pm | Elder Park/Tarntanya Wama
Aus Lights on the River returns in the evening with a free, inclusive celebration featuring multicultural food, immersive light and sound installations, staged performances and family-friendly activities.
Large-scale Australian bird installations, shadow-puppet storytelling, creative workshops and roving performers will bring the event theme to life throughout the park.
The Aus Lights Parade begins at 6.00pm, with more than 50 South Australian multicultural and community organisations taking part in a celebratory procession. Community performers will then take to the main stage ahead of the Official Ceremony.
Headline performers include Diana Rouvas, the Festival Statesmen Choir, Young Adelaide Voices and musical collaborations with the Adelaide Youth Orchestra.
The evening concludes with a fireworks finale over the River Torrens/Karrawirra Parri at 9.30pm, followed by lighting displays along the northern bank and a DJ set through to 11.00pm.
Event Details
Date: Monday 26 January 2026
Location: Elder Park/Tarntanya Wama & Torrens Parade Ground, Adelaide
Cost: Free
For full program details, visit australiadaysa.com.au
