Celebrating all things Augusta and the annual whale migration
After a three-year hiatus, the beloved Augusta Whalesong Festival is back — and its 2026 program is as big as…. a whale.
Held over the WA Day long weekend (29 May to 1 June) to coincide with the start of the annual whale migration season, the community-led festival is a celebration of all things Augusta.
The team at Shire partner Augusta Community Resource Centre have curated a program packed with free and ticketed events for all ages to showcase what makes Augusta so special.
Festivities kick off on Friday 29 May with the official opening ceremony which features formal proceedings and music from the Singrays and Ukulele Club. The event will also mark the unofficial launch of the new public art sculpture Maamang Ninda (Whale Tail), created by Ameil Lambert (principal sculptor) and the local Augusta Men’s Shed.
Later that evening, the Whalesong Frolic Cocktail Party will bring the community together for a special fundraising event supporting the Augusta Community Resource Centre.
On Saturday 30 May, Augusta’s main street will come alive with activities, decorations and music. Don’t miss the street parade starting at 11am from the Augusta Historical Museum and finishing on the lawns in front of the Augusta Hotel, followed by a spectacular kite display from 12pm and an afternoon of entertainment.
Visitors can also watch a large-scale sand sculpture come to life near Village Green, created by renowned sand sculptor Tim Darby. Feeling inspired? There will also be sand sculpting and kite-making workshops for all ages.
Sunday’s celebrations move to the Boat Harbour, beginning at 9am with the much-loved Blessing of the Fleet ahead of the first whale-watching tours of the season. You can also browse the Whalesong Markets until 2pm, featuring some of the South West’s best artisan crafts, fashion, jewellery and artwork, alongside food stalls and live music.
Then on Sunday afternoon, head to the free screening of Ocean with David Attenborough at 1pm, or join the Leeuwin Biddi Guided Walk & Sundowner from 3pm to 7.30pm. This unique experience offers the chance to explore the new Leeuwin Biddi trail from Boat Harbour to Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse while learning about the cultural, historical and environmental significance of the area — all topped off with canapés, local wine and live music at sunset.
Celebrating community, coastline and culture, the Augusta Whalesong Festival offers a weekend packed with fun for all ages. For more information or tickets, visit the festival website: whalesongfestival.com.au
The Shire of Augusta Margaret River is proud to partner with the Augusta Community Resource Centre to support and empower Augusta’s residents and local businesses, and we’re delighted to support the Augusta Whalesong Festival through our Community Development & Events Grants program.