The ACT Government is proud to once again support the 2026 Craft + Design Canberra Festival, one of Canberra's signature events spanning public art, digital design, performance, exhibitions and community-led initiatives.
Held from 5 – 15 November, the Festival continues to grow, attracting more than 140,000 attendees and delivering significant economic and cultural benefits for the Territory.
The ACT Government has committed more than $1.2 million to support the 2026 festival and associated initiatives, including project funding, festival delivery and design awards. The projects are supported by the City of Design Major Projects Fund.
With local artists and designers at its core, this year's event will explore the theme Dissent, highlighting the role of creativity in challenging ideas, encouraging new perspectives and fostering meaningful public dialogue.
Minister for Business, Arts and Creative Industries Michael Pettersson said the Festival highlights the depth of talent in Canberra's design community.
"This is about giving Canberrans and visitors new ways to experience design." Minister Pettersson said.
"That is why we're funding projects right across Canberra, including public installations, performances and exhibitions.
"The City of Design Festival proves Canberra is a place where creativity and innovation thrive."
The funded projects reflect the breadth and ambition of Canberra's creative sector. Highlights include:
- Australian Dance Party's Clothing the Loop at CIT Woden, and the Tuggeranong Community Arts Association's Weaving Waters at the Tuggeranong Arts Centre.
- In Belconnen, Liz Lea's Alter will be presented at Belco Arts. The Canberra Game Developers Association will also present Digital Dissent at the National Film and Sound Archive in Acton.
- Matthew Curtis's Revitrification will feature at the Australian National Botanic Gardens. These projects sit alongside city-based works such as Eggpicnic's Stories in the Dark in Civic Square.
The funding expands opportunities for local artists, designers and creative businesses to develop and present ambitious work. It supports Canberra's progress toward recognition in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, showcasing our city's design excellence.
