Published on Wednesday, 24 June 2026 at 10:48:25 AM
Albany’s Maritime Festival returns in July with a vibrant launch weekend packed with live music, family entertainment, maritime experiences and major cultural exhibitions.
Festivities begin with Foreshore Friday on Friday, July 3 from 6pm at the Albany Boatshed, transforming the waterfront into a lively hub of music, food and drink.
The event will feature performances from Australian folk artist Tom River, acclaimed indie rock acts The Forever Party and Ghost Care, and high-energy local favourite DJ Levi Ryan.
Festivalgoers can also sample premium botanical spirits from Denmark-based Cannabis Botanical Distillery, showcasing the unique flavours and craftsmanship of the Great Southern.
The excitement continues on Saturday, July 4 with All at Sea Saturday at the Albany Boatshed. The family-friendly program includes St Ayle Skiffs Maritime Foundation displays, a beachfront activation zone, try sailing sessions, a best dressed vessel competition, face painting, glitter tattoos and marine specimen collection activities.
A full day of entertainment will feature Jamie the Clown, the Albany Shantymen, cooking demonstrations from Nilla’s Italian Kitchen and live music from Julia Anwar.
Adding a new layer to the event, Critters Up Close will present an aquatic touch pool experience, allowing children and families to get hands-on with some fascinating marine creatures.
The launch weekend will also coincide with the opening of two major exhibitions.
At Albany’s Historic Whaling Station, The Bone Yard by Erin Coates opens on July 3 and runs until August 30. Developed through artist in residency, the exhibition explores family history, whaling
archives and the complex relationship between humans and animals.
The following day, Museum of the Great Southern will unveil Kalyagul: Connections to Menang Country, an exhibition celebrating the Menang people's enduring connection to land, sea and sky.
Manager Community Relations Elise van Gorp said the launch weekend will capture the spirit of the Maritime Festival.
“The Maritime Festival is a celebration of Albany’s identity as a coastal community, bringing together our maritime heritage, arts, culture and unique natural environment,” she said.
“With free live music, family activities, hands-on experiences and world-class exhibitions, the opening weekend offers something for everyone and is a fantastic way to experience everything that makes Albany such a special place.”
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