Dark Mofo Returns to Hobart Next Week: The City's Biggest Winter Celebration Is Back
As winter settles over Tasmania, Hobart is preparing for the return of one of the state's most anticipated annual events. Dark Mofo returns from 11–22 June 2026, bringing with it twelve days of art, music, food, fire, performance and unforgettable experiences that transform our waterfront city into something truly unique.
Presented by MONA, Dark Mofo has become synonymous with Tasmania's winter identity. What began as a bold arts festival has grown into a world-renowned event that attracts visitors from across Australia and beyond, generating significant economic activity while showcasing Hobart's creativity, culture and hospitality.
Hobart Comes Alive After Dark
For nearly two weeks, Hobart's streets, laneways, waterfront and historic buildings will become stages for large-scale art installations, live performances and immersive experiences. The festival embraces the longest nights of the year, celebrating the winter solstice with a program designed to challenge, inspire and entertain.
This year's festival will once again feature a mix of international artists, musicians and performers alongside local Tasmanian talent, creating a program that is both globally significant and uniquely local.
The Return of Festival Favourites
Many of Dark Mofo's most loved traditions are returning in 2026.
Winter Feast will once again take over Princes Wharf, bringing together some of Tasmania's best food producers, chefs, wineries, breweries and distilleries. Visitors can gather around roaring fire pits while enjoying local produce, mulled drinks and live entertainment in one of the festival's most popular attractions.
Night Mass returns to take over parts of Hobart's CBD with late-night music, performances and unexpected experiences hidden throughout warehouses, laneways and city spaces.
The iconic Ogoh-Ogoh burning ceremony will once again provide a powerful communal ritual, while the famous Nude Solstice Swim will see hundreds of brave participants welcome the return of the light with a sunrise plunge into the Derwent River on the winter solstice.
A Boost for Hobart and Local Businesses
Beyond the entertainment, Dark Mofo continues to play a significant role in Tasmania's economy. The festival attracts visitors during what has traditionally been a quieter tourism season, providing a major boost for accommodation providers, restaurants, cafes, retailers and tourism operators throughout Hobart and surrounding regions.
For local businesses, the festival period often delivers some of the busiest winter trading weeks of the year, helping reinforce Tasmania's reputation as a year-round destination.
Planning Your Visit
With many events already generating strong demand, festival-goers are encouraged to review the program and secure tickets early. While some events require tickets, there are also plenty of free experiences available throughout the city, making it easy for everyone to be part of the celebration.
As Hobart prepares to once again glow red against the backdrop of Tasmania's longest nights, Dark Mofo 2026 promises to deliver another unforgettable winter experience.
If you're in Hobart next week, don't be surprised if the city feels a little different. That's exactly the point.