Cowra will once again take centre stage in global friendship and cultural celebration as the Cowra Festival of International Understanding returns in 2026, with the United Kingdom – England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales – named as the host nation.
A cornerstone of Cowra’s cultural identity for more than 60 years, the Festival will feature
sports events and activities throughout the week and the week leading up to, culminating in
a jam-packed three-day program of music, dance, sport, storytelling, food and ceremony.
The 2026 Festival honours Cowra’s legacy as a peace town and brings the richness of
British traditions to the heart of regional Australia.
Cowra Mayor Paul Smith said: “The Festival is a unique opportunity for our community to
connect with the world through culture, and celebration. With the UK as our 2026 focus, we
welcome the rich traditions of four nations – England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales
– to the Cowra community.”
The Festival also boasts a strengthened Youth Ambassador Leadership Program, giving
Cowra high school students and youth aged between 15 and 18 years old, the chance to
represent their town, meet UK diplomats in Canberra, host major festival events, and
develop skills in public speaking, etiquette, teamwork, and media.
A formal Welcome Dinner, Tree Planting Ceremony, and Peace Bell event will ground the
celebration and activities for the Festival.
Organisers have extended a special call-out for:
- Performers & Stallholders
- Volunteers
- Local businesses to participate in themed promotions, the Business Passport Program, and
the popular shopfront competition
“Whether you’re a fan of rugby, Harry Potter, Irish dancing, Welsh music or
English scones, this festival is for everyone,” said Deputy Mayor Nikki Kiss
A dedicated website is in the building stages now and will hold all the relevant information,
events, activities and tickets
