Perth Festival Kickoff and Fringe Magic: What's On Today

A Landmark Day for Arts and Culture in Perth

Today, Friday, 6 February 2026, marks the spectacular beginning of the Perth Festival, coinciding with the peak of Fringe World. The city is transforming into a vibrant playground of light, performance, and community celebration. From the banks of the Swan River to the heart of Northbridge, there is no shortage of immersive experiences to explore this evening.

Perth Festival Opening Night: Karla Bidi

The 2026 Perth Festival officially launches today with Karla Bidi, a breathtaking opening spectacle. Inspired by Noongar traditions, this event features a brand-new soundscape and visual display of fire and light along the Derbarl Yerrigan (Swan River). The glowing beacons are designed to guide visitors and celebrate the connection between the hills and the ocean. It is a free, family-friendly experience that sets the tone for the month-long festivities.

Dance and Music in the City

If you prefer to be part of the action, head to Forrest Place for Perth Moves. Hosted by STRUT Dance, this outdoor hub offers public dance workshops and classes. Today features the world premiere of Concrete Echoes, a massive performance uniting local dancers in a celebration of movement. For music lovers, the East Perth Power Station has been reimagined as a creative hub, hosting electronic artist Max Cooper and other live acts tonight as part of the opening weekend lineup.

Fringe World Highlights

The Fringe World Festival is in full swing across Northbridge and beyond. Highlights for this Friday include:

• Hypnotist Matt Hale: Funbelievable! – A high-energy 90s-themed hypnosis show at Planet Royale that promises laugh-out-loud entertainment.
• 007 From Mumbai with Love – Kicking off its run today at various venues, this unique fusion of comedy and Bollywood-style performance offers a fresh take on the spy genre.
• The 27 Club – A powerful rockumentary tribute to music legends like Hendrix and Joplin, performing tonight at various Fringe hubs.

Outdoor Cinema: Sunset Yoga and Movies

For a more relaxed evening, Rooftop Movies in Northbridge is hosting a special "Sunset Yoga: Legally Blonde" session. Start your night with a guided yoga flow as the sun sets over the city skyline, followed by a screening of the classic comedy. Meanwhile, the Lotterywest Films season begins tonight at the iconic UWA Somerville auditorium, offering a cinematic experience under the stars surrounded by majestic pine trees.