UPDATE: Albany officially launches its bicentenary celebrations, marking 200 years since European settlement began among Australia’s Indigenous communities. The festivities, branded as Albany 2026, kicked off with the family-friendly Kaya 2026 event on December 31, featuring live performances, music, and fireworks, setting an exciting tone for the year ahead.
This milestone is not just a commemoration of Albany’s history; it symbolizes the rich tapestry of cultures that define this iconic city. The event pays tribute to the Menang Noongar people and European settlers, showcasing a commitment to community bonds and cultural recognition. Honorary Freeman of Albany, Alice Rule, and Terry Eaton, both prominent community figures, embody the spirit of togetherness that is central to these celebrations.
The year-long event series includes several major happenings that highlight Albany’s unique culture and heritage. On January 26, festivities will continue with the Binalup Festival at Middleton Beach, alongside a Bicentenary Swim, ensuring that both locals and visitors can engage in the celebrations.
From March 6 to 8, the skies over Albany will dazzle with the First Lights Kinjarling, a choreographed drone display narrated by local Menang elders. This stunning visual experience will recount the creation stories of the Stirling Range and Frenchman Bay, merging modern technology with ancient narratives.
As part of the bicentenary celebrations, Albany will host the world’s largest outdoor light installation, Lighting the Sound, over the final three weekends of March. Finnish artist Kari Kola will illuminate the rugged cliffs of the Torndirrup Peninsula with a breathtaking array of red and green lights, drawing an anticipated 15,000 visitors each weekend.
The Museum of the Great Southern will feature the ongoing Albany Then & Now exhibition, illustrating the evolution of Albany’s landscapes. Additionally, an interactive app, Albany Is, set to launch in June, will enable users to explore local stories and histories, narrated by the community members themselves.
The performing arts will also play a significant role throughout the year. The play Our Place, Rain or Shine, commissioned specifically for Albany 2026, will be staged on September 25 and 26, celebrating the city’s identity. Meanwhile, a collaboration with the WA Opera will present The Song Catchers, a unique production blending music and storytelling featuring local wildlife characters.
The celebrations will culminate in November with Carrying the Fire, a community-led event where locals and tourists will unite to walk a coastal trail, symbolizing unity and shared heritage.
This bicentenary is not just about the past; it’s a vibrant celebration of community resilience, cultural pride, and the shared future of Albany. As events unfold, residents and visitors alike are encouraged to participate and reflect on the rich history that shapes their city.
Stay tuned for more updates as Albany embarks on this historic journey throughout 2026!
