Nelson Arts Festival
From street parades to visual art
Trafalgar Square, Nelson City
From street parades to visual art
A vibrant celebration of creativity, community and culture, the Nelson Arts Festival brings the town to life every spring with performances, parades and plenty of unexpected magic.
Expect an inspiring mix of theatre, music, dance, circus, writers' talks and visual arts, all curated to surprise, delight and connect.
At the heart of it all is the Mask Parade, a wildly joyful street party that’s pure Nelson at its best. Picture whole schools of tamariki in handmade masks, joined by larger-than-life puppets, dancers, and locals decked out in brilliant costumes—famous faces hidden in plain sight. It’s creative, chaotic in the best way, and absolutely unforgettable.
Whether you're an arts lover or just here for the vibe, the Nelson Arts Festival is a chance to soak up the energy of a community that lives and breathes creativity. Come for the spectacle, stay for the stories, and leave with a full heart.
Our 2024 Festival captured in 120 seconds. Wow - it's been amazing, and an incredible celebration of our 30th birthday. Our heartfelt thanks to everyone involved, from funders and partners to volunteers, crew, and our awe-inspiring artists.
