Aus Lights on the River | Free Family Friendly Event
Aus Lights on the River’s evening program will not be going ahead in 2026.
EDITOR’S NOTE 24 JANUARY 2026: Unfortunately the evening event Aus Lights on the River and Official Ceremony for Australia Day on Monday 26 January 2026 has been cancelled due to the extreme weather forecast. This is very disappointing for everyone and they thank you for your understanding and support. The Mourning in the Morning ceremony will commence as planned at 7.30am, in the cool of the morning.
Aus Lights on the River will deliver a vibrant, inclusive and free program of events that celebrates our shared story and reminds us that we all belong. Open to South Australians and visitors alike, the event invites everyone to reflect on this remarkable land and its people, bringing Our SA Story to life through immersive light, vision and sound installations, complemented by family-friendly children’s activities throughout the precinct.
The evening begins with the Aus Lights Parade along King William Street, proudly showcasing community organisations and celebrating the rich diversity of Australia’s people at their best. This is followed by the Official Ceremony and Concert, featuring powerhouse vocals from Diana Rouvas, winner of The Voice Australia 2019, the rich harmonies of Festival Statesmen, the stunning choral performances of Young Adelaide Voices, the dynamic talent of the Adelaide Youth Orchestra, and iconic Australian tracks spun by DJ Tommy Tequila.
The celebration builds to an unforgettable finale with a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the River Torrens / Karrawirra Pari — a highlight not to be missed.
2026 PROGRAM SUMMARY
- 7.30am – 8.45am | Mourning in the Morning Smoking Ceremony
- 12pm – 12.15pm | A traditional 21 Gun Salute (Torrens Parade Ground)
- 7pm – 11pm | Aus Lights on the River, including food hub
6pm – 7pm| Aus Lights Parade (CANCELLED)- 7.15pm – 8.15pm | Community performers on the main stage
- 8.30pm – 9.30pm | Official Ceremony
- 9.30pm | Cinematic Firework Display
- 9.40pm – 11pm | DJ set closing the event
This is a FREE, family-friendly event in Adelaide’s Elder Park/Tarntanya Wama.
VIEW THE FULL 2026 PROGRAM
Aus Lights on the River 2026 is assisted by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council and the City of Adelaide and is supported by the Government of South Australia.
Aus Lights Parade community support partners South Australian Aquatic & Leisure Centre, Galipo Foods and Altus Traffic
For more information and all enquiries please visit the official Australia Day SA website or follow their Facebook page for updates.
What: Aus Lights on the River
When: Monday 26 January 2026 | 7pm – 11pm
Where: Elder Park/Tarntanya Wama | King William St, Adelaide
Who: Everyone
At Play & Go Adelaide we make every effort to provide accurate information to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. We recommend confirming times, dates and details directly before making any plans as details may be subject to change.
Image Source: supplied (photographer credit: ADCSA/Ben Clark Imagery)
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