Adelaide Festival

Adelaide Festival 2027 takes place from 26 February to 14 March 2027 in Adelaide, South Australia. The organizer’s announcement (opens in a new tab) lists theatre, opera, dance, music, visual art and literary events across the city. Adelaide Writers’ Week runs from 27 February to 4 March as part of the festival. Check each event’s own dates and venue before booking travel: the whole festival lasts 17 days, but individual productions have their own schedules.

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What is Adelaide Festival?

Adelaide Festival is a multi-arts festival presenting work in venues across the city. Its 2027 announcement includes the opera Bluebeard’s Castle, theatre productions K. and Oedipus, and dance by TAO Dance Theater. These are separate performances rather than a single festival show. The festival programme (opens in a new tab) provides details of each production, including its dates, venue, content advice and booking options.

The first Adelaide Festival took place in 1960. Its official archive (opens in a new tab) records that the inaugural programme included the first Adelaide Writers’ Week. This is a useful distinction when looking for accommodation: Adelaide Festival and Adelaide Fringe are separate festivals, although their dates overlap. A ticket to one should not be assumed to admit you to the other.

2027 dates and how to plan your visit

The main festival runs from Friday 26 February to Sunday 14 March. Start with one or two performances that matter most to you, then check their dates, running times, locations and availability. Leave time between venues and account for a possible interval or late finish. Some exhibitions may keep different hours from a theatre performance, so look at individual listings instead of using one festival-wide opening time.

The organiser announced a 54-event programme, but listings and availability can change. A flexible trip allows space for exhibitions, talks or a second performance without depending on a show that has sold out. For an evening booking, check transport back to your accommodation before buying, especially if your venue is outside your chosen neighbourhood.

Adelaide Writers’ Week

Adelaide Writers’ Week (opens in a new tab) is scheduled for 27 February to 4 March 2027. The festival describes six days of free panel sessions in a city-centre garden, alongside a series of ticketed special events. The full free schedule is due closer to the event; check the official listing for participants, times, location details and any changes.

Do not assume every Writers’ Week event is free. Check whether the particular conversation or special event you want requires a ticket and whether it has a different venue. For a day outdoors, bring water, sun protection and a layer for changing conditions. If you plan to move to an evening show afterwards, leave enough time for food and travel.

Tickets and admission

Prices and conditions vary by performance. Follow the purchase link on each official event page (opens in a new tab): the organizer explains that it uses different ticketing agencies according to the venue. Its booking information (opens in a new tab) lists concessions and limited discounted tickets for eligible visitors; check the relevant event and proof requirements rather than assuming the same discount applies everywhere.

According to the booking page, tickets purchased for the 2027 festival are due to be delivered from the week beginning 11 January 2027. An order confirmation and the ticket itself may therefore arrive separately. Check the organizer’s latest information and keep your confirmation. Review conditions for changes, refunds, age restrictions and content advice before completing a purchase.

Where are the venues and how do I get there?

The venue directory (opens in a new tab) gives addresses, transport and facilities for festival locations. Use it with the actual performance listing: the festival does not manage most venues and recommends checking the venue directly for current details. Grouping events in the same area can reduce travel between performances. Choose accommodation after plotting the events you intend to see, and check cancellation terms before committing.

Adelaide Metro’s J2 route (opens in a new tab) serves Adelaide Airport. Check the current journey planner and timetable for your travel date and destination rather than relying on an old service frequency. Buses and trams can also be useful between city venues; allow extra time if changing services or travelling after an evening performance.

Accessibility and practical tips

The festival’s access page (opens in a new tab) explains how to book accessible seating and identifies options such as Auslan interpretation, audio description, assistive listening and relaxed performances where offered. These provisions vary by show and session. Check the symbols and notes on your chosen event, then contact the festival before booking if you need a particular seat, service or companion arrangement.

For families, look at each production’s age recommendations and content notes. For outdoor activities, plan for sun and heat as well as changes in weather. Adelaide Festival acknowledges the Kaurna Nation of the Adelaide Plains as the traditional owners of the land where it gathers. Allow space in your itinerary to experience the city respectfully, including the artists and communities hosting the programme.

For another event in the same city, see our Adelaide Fringe guide. WOMADelaide also takes place during the festival period, but has its own tickets and programme.

Frequently asked questions

When is Adelaide Festival 2027?

The organizer lists 26 February to 14 March 2027. Individual events have separate dates and times.

Is Adelaide Festival free?

Some events are free and many performances require tickets. Writers’ Week has free garden panels as well as ticketed special events; always check the individual listing.

Is Adelaide Festival the same as Adelaide Fringe?

No. They are separate festivals with overlapping dates and their own programmes and ticketing.

Where can I find accessibility information?

Use the festival’s access page (opens in a new tab) and the venue and event pages, then contact the organizer about your specific requirements before booking.