Published on Tuesday, 3 March 2026 at 9:03:58 AM
Albany’s hospitality, retail and tourism operators are preparing to welcome locals and visitors as Lighting the Sound transforms the waterfront as part of Albany 2026.
While the large-scale light installation will illuminate the coastline, it is also expected to draw significant visitation into the city centre, creating opportunities for local businesses to extend their trading and showcase what Albany has to offer.
Stirling Terrace will be a key activation zone, with temporary road closures in place to create a safe, pedestrian-friendly precinct.
Six Degrees will expand into an extended outdoor trading area, Wilson Brewing Company will trade as usual, and Dylan’s on the Terrace will offer a late-night dessert menu.
Gourmandise & Co and Kate's Place will also extend their hours, while Provincial House on Stirling will open late offering a retail experience, and Down South Creative will open across the first weekend, with additional dates to be confirmed.
Further afield, Rustlers Steakhouse and Grill, Garrison Restaurant and Bar and VIEW Restaurant at the Albany Entertainment Centre are preparing custom menus and special offerings aligned to the event evenings.
At Anzac Peace Park visitors will be able to enjoy a relaxed family-friendly setting. Denmark-based The Dam will operate a pop-up bar on site, supported by local food vendors, creating a casual gathering space that complements the installation.
Tourism operators are also developing tailored experiences to coincide with the event. Albany Tours will deliver custom Lighting the Sound products, including a walking tour with wine tasting at Alkoomi Wines and a Point Uredale hike on event evenings.
King George Sound Safari and Albany Ocean Adventures will offer boat cruises, giving visitors the opportunity to experience the coastline from a different perspective before gathering on shore.
Mayor of Albany Greg Stocks said the response from the business community had been strong.
“Albany 2026 is about marking this historic milestone in our city’s history, but it is also about supporting our local economy,” Mayor Stocks said.
“Lighting the Sound will draw people into the city centre across multiple evenings. We are encouraging visitors to arrive early, explore the precinct, dine locally and make a night of it.”
FORM Senior Cultural Tourism Specialist Michael Deller said engagement with local operators had been an important part of the planning process.
“It has been incredibly encouraging to see the level of enthusiasm from Albany businesses,” Mr Deller said.
“There is a genuine sense that the community understands the significance of Lighting the Sound and wants to be part of it. Businesses are not only extending their trading but thinking creatively about how they can enhance the overall visitor experience.”
Lighting the Sound forms part of the Albany 2026 program marking Western Australia’s first Bicentenary.
Lighting the Sound is supported by the State Government through Tourism WA and Lotterywest.
Local businesses that are extending their trading hours or developing an aligned product or package and would like to be included in future promotions are encouraged to contact the Albany 2026 team via [email protected].
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