2026 First Nations Literary Festival Dates

Blak & Bright is excited to announce the dates for our 2026 First Nations Literary Festival:

Thursday 3 - Sunday 6 September 2026

While the festival has been traditionally held in March, following careful reflection and discussion between our CEO and Board, we have made the strategic and curatorial decision to move next year’s festival to September.

Our CEO and Artistic Director, Bebe Oliver said,

“This decision represents a pivotal strategic move for our organisation, giving space for more meaningful collaboration and curation across our storytellers, partners and audiences. This exciting shift aligns our festival with the season of spring, and a time of renewal, growth and emergence. As Country grows and changes, so do we.”

Operationally, this change enhances the sustainability of our work, providing storytellers and staff the time and structure to deliver at a healthy and considered pace, ensuring that wellbeing remains central to how we operate. This balance between excellence and care is fundamental to the ongoing strength of our organisation and the success of our festival. It also offers an expanded creative horizon, allowing the festival’s programming to flourish in an environment that mirrors the vitality and regeneration of Blak storytelling.

We extend our thanks to all of our ongoing supporters as we shape an extraordinary Blak & Bright 2026.

Any queries can be sent to info@blakandbright.com.au