Bringing together Deaf and hard of hearing people, families, friends, allies, organisations and the wider community, Deaf Festival is a day to connect, celebrate, learn and experience the richness of Deaf culture.
And in 2026, Deaf Festival has an even greater purpose.
MORE THAN A CELEBRATION
Deaf Festival has been part of Victoria’s Deaf and hard of hearing community since 1932.
What began as the Christmas Rally has grown into one of the community’s most anticipated annual events — bringing people together to reconnect, celebrate and share in Deaf culture.
In 2026, the Festival continues that tradition while helping fund something critically important to our community:
Auslan Emergency Interpreting
Expression Australia’s Auslan Emergency Interpreting service provides 24/7, on-demand access to Auslan interpreting during emergency situations.
When every second counts, communication matters.
Expression Australia currently self-funds this vital service because equitable access to emergency communication should not be a privilege.
By attending, supporting or sponsoring Deaf Festival 2026, you are helping create a future where Deaf Australians can access emergency communication when they need it most.
WHAT’S HAPPENING AT DEAF FESTIVAL 2026
A full day of entertainment, activities, food, connection and community.
Live Entertainment
Enjoy performances and entertainment throughout the day, with a program created to celebrate Deaf talent, creativity and culture.
Full entertainment lineup coming soon.
Deaf-Owned Businesses & Market Stalls
Discover and support Deaf and hard of hearing business owners, makers and creators.
In 2025, Deaf Festival welcomed 32 stalls, with the Festival continuing to grow opportunities for Deaf-owned businesses in 2026.
Expect everything from handmade products and gifts to community organisations, experiences and more.
Family Activities
Deaf Festival is for all ages.
Families can enjoy a range of activities and experiences throughout the day, with dedicated entertainment and activities for children.
Full family program coming soon.
Food & Drinks
Stay for the day and enjoy a selection of food and drink options available throughout the Festival.
Food vendor details coming soon.
Community & Culture
Meet community organisations, connect with friends old and new, learn more about Auslan and Deaf culture, and celebrate what makes the Deaf community unique.
Whether you are Deaf, hard of hearing, learning Auslan, raising a Deaf child, working within the community or simply want to experience Deaf Festival — everyone is welcome.
FESTIVAL PROGRAM
Plan Your Day
Our full 2026 program will be released closer to the Festival.
Morning
[10:00am]
Gates Open
[10:30am] Welcome to Country / Official Opening
[11:00am] Entertainment
[11:30am] Community Activity / Performance
Afternoon
[12:30pm]
Main Stage Entertainment
[1:30pm] Community Performance
[2:30pm] Featured Entertainment
[3:30pm] Festival Finale
[4:00pm] Festival Close
Program times and activities are currently indicative and subject to confirmation.
TICKETS
Be Part of Deaf Festival 2026
Tickets will be available online ahead of the Festival.
Ticket pricing:
Adult: $10
Child: $5
under 5-s and consession - FREE
Family $30 (up to 2 adults and 3 children)
Your attendance helps support the ongoing future of Deaf Festival and the important work behind Auslan Emergency Interpreting.