Nelson Arts Festival
11 days of unmissable arts experiences
11 days of unmissable arts experiences
A vibrant celebration of creativity, community and culture, the Nelson Arts Festival brings Whakatū Nelson to life every spring with unforgettable performances, thought-provoking events and plenty of creative surprises.
Expect an inspiring mix of theatre, music, dance, circus, writers' talks and visual arts, all curated to surprise, delight and connect.
For more than 30 years, the Nelson Arts Festival has brought people together through unforgettable creative experiences. Each spring, Whakatū Nelson comes alive with 11 days of bold performances, fresh ideas and stories that celebrate our region's people, places and creative spirit.
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 performances, stay for the stories, and leave with a full heart.
Here are some of the many highlights from our 2025 Nelson Arts Festival. A warm and heartfelt thank you goes out to the community who support this kaupapa, including sponsors, partners, artists and audience. See you in 2026!
