Published on Thursday, 22 May 2025 at 12:11:04 PM
A vibrant program of winter events will celebrate the region’s maritime heritage when the City of Albany’s Maritime Festival returns this July, again in partnership with the Albany International Folk n’ Shanty Festival.
Now in its fifth year, the festival has become a highlight of Albany’s cultural calendar, bringing together arts, history and community through music, exhibitions, and family-friendly activities.
Supported by Tourism WA, the 2025 program will span the month of July, attracting visitors during a traditionally quieter period and providing a welcome boost to the local economy.
Among the events will be All at Sea Saturday at the Albany Boatshed on July 5, with free family activities including boat building displays, rowing, sensory play, art stations, and even a mermaid.
Art lovers can explore the Albany Maritime Art Exhibition at Vancouver Arts Centre from July 3 to 28, showcasing work from Great Southern artists and awarding Best Overall and People’s Choice prizes.
Families can enjoy Maritime Movies at Albany Town Hall on July 8 and 15—featuring Ice Age: The Meltdown, Jungle Cruise, The Little Mermaid and Aquaman—and take part in the Treasure Trail, a school holiday scavenger hunt across local businesses.
The Folk ‘n’ Shanty Festival will return from July 11 to 13 following a successful collaboration with the Maritime Festival in 2024, and with a distinctly Scottish twist – featuring live folk music, tartan, tug o’ war, and a traditional shanty fayre.
The first major event of the Maritime Festival is Foreshore Friday on July 4 at the Albany Boatshed, an 18+ event featuring live music by Marksman Lloyd, food vendors, and the Cannabis Botanical Distillery.
Events will also run across the city, including at Albany’s Historic Whaling Station, Museum of the Great Southern, Albany Leisure & Aquatic Centre, Vancouver Arts Centre and Albany Public Library.
City of Albany Manager Community Relations Elise van Gorp said hosting the Maritime and Folk n’ Shanty festivals together in July supports the local economy during a traditionally quieter time.
“Last year we had participation of more than 28,000 across the month which generated a substantial economic impact of around $7.9 million,” she said.
“This demonstrates the festivals’ are a key regional economic driver and furthers Albany’s reputation as a regional cultural centre.”
For the full program and ticket information, visit: cityofalbanyevents.com/maritimefestival
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