Since 1974, this beloved tradition has showcased fresh talent, celebrated artistic flair, and given one lucky artist the chance to see their work take centrestage as the visual identity of Australia’s largest open-access arts festival.
Thanks to the support of Lumo Energy, the winning artist will not only take home the generous cash prize but will also receive free registration to exhibit in the 2026 Adelaide Fringe, along with widespread exposure through posters, merchandise, digital campaigns and more. Past winners have seen their work featured on everything from city trams to collectable souvenirs.
This year’s theme—“The Simple Pleasures”—invites artists to reflect on the small, magical moments that make Fringe so unforgettable. Think of a surprising performance down a laneway, the feeling of discovering something new, or the shimmer of glitter long after the show has ended.
The Poster Competition is a deeply loved tradition at Adelaide Fringe,” said Heather Croall AM, Director and CEO of Adelaide Fringe.
It represents more than just an image—it captures the heart of the festival. This year’s theme, ‘The Simple Pleasures’, celebrates the unexpected moments that build into extraordinary memories. We look forward to seeing how artists around the world interpret that spirit in their work.
Artists are encouraged to consider how their design might translate across a wide range of formats—billboards, buses, brochures, and even the much-loved Adelaide Fringe guide.
With a rich legacy that includes previous winners like Mali Ward, Pro Hart and Driller Jet Armstrong, the 2026 Poster Competition continues to be a career-making platform for emerging and established artists alike.
Adelaide Fringe 2026 will run from 20 February to 22 March, with tickets on sale from Friday, 5 December 2025. Download the Adelaide Fringe App to plan your festival experience.
Top image: Samuel Graves.
Submissions are open now for the Adelaide Fringe 2026 Poster Competition and will close at 11:59pm ACST on Saturday, 17 August 2025. Early entries are encouraged. To view full competition guidelines and submit your entry, visit adelaidefringe.com.au/poster-competition
