The Midsummer Festival is a free, family-friendly celebration inspired by the summer solstice. Held on Midsummer Boulevard, which was famously designed to align with the rising and setting sun, the festival transforms the street and surrounding public spaces into a colourful stage filled with performances, creative workshops, live music, art installations, street food and plenty of activities for all ages.
More than 14,000 people have enjoyed the festival so far and each year brings new ideas, new artists and new ways for communities to come together. The 2026 programme will take place on Sunday 21 June and is expected to be even bigger, brighter and more imaginative.
To help shape this year’s festival, the city council is inviting artists, collectives and creative practitioners to submit proposals for a new commissioned artwork or supporting projects. Submissions should include bold, engaging and high quality ideas that celebrate midsummer themes such as light, nature, connection and renewal.
