The annual Shinju Matsuri festival is set to return to Broome for 2026, taking over the Kimberley town with a series of vibrant cultural celebrations and events from Friday, August 21, to Sunday, September 6.

The 17-day celebration is set to highlight Broome’s unique multicultural and pearling history, with the festival’s events showcasing the fusion of flavours, sounds, and colours that define the region.

Shinju Matsuri kicks off with an Opening Ceremony at the Shinju Matsuri Festival Hub at Town Beach on Friday, August 21. The event will feature special speeches, performances and the traditional Waking of Sammy the Dragon.

The Shinju Matsuri Opening Ball is also set to return to Shinju Matsuri Festival Hub at Town Beach on Saturday, August 22, with a rock’n’roll theme, featuring performances from Bevan Sidebottom and the Smooth Tones.

Attendees can look forward to the Floating Lanterns Matsuri, which takes over Gantheaume Beach on Sunday, August 30. Inspired by the Japanese Obon celebration, this ceremony honours loved ones with lanterns drifting on the waters.

The crowd-favourite Chinatown Feast will hit Broome’s historic Chinatown for a night of food, culture and celebration on Friday, August 28. Inspired by Asian hawker markets with a Kimberley twist, the event will also feature live music and roaming performers.

For 2026, Shinju Matsuri will also celebrate the sounds of Latin groove, with Sand ‘n Sounds – LUZ Y GROOVE taking over Cable Beach on Friday, September 4. On the night, attendees can expect to hear a vibrant mix of Afro, Latin and tribal beats, with drinks on arrival and a selection of canapes available.

Renowned as one of the most exclusive dining tables in WA, the Sunset Long Table Dinner will return to Cable Beach on Saturday, September 5, featuring an exclusive drinks selection and a menu inspired by Broome’s rich cultural tapestry, with entertainment by local musicians.

The 2026 program also includes a Float Parade, dance performances at the Carnival of Nations, and a Festival Finale and Drone Show at Town Beach on Sunday, September 6, as well as art exhibitions, sunrise pilates, all-ages events and more.

Shinju Matsuri, which is Japanese for ‘Festival of the Pearl’, has been a celebrated fixture of Western Australia’s regional events calendar since its inception in 1970. The festival originated from three cultural festivals—the Japanese Obon Matsuri, the Chinese Hang Seng, and the Malaysian Hari Merdeka, which celebrates Independence Day from British rule in 1957.

Shinju Matsuri festival takes over Broome from Friday, August 21, to Sunday, September 6, 2026. For more info and to buy tickets, head to shinjumatsuri.com.au