Nelson Arts Festival

Working with the local arts and events community, the 2020 Nelson Arts Festival takes place under the banner of Ngā Toi Huatau – The Seasonal Arts, with a series of events ‘sprinkled’ over the month of October.

The focus has naturally shifted, as a result of Covid-19. In the past, we’ve brought international and national shows to Nelson audiences who might not otherwise get a chance to see them. This year our programme showcases familiar and less familiar artists, authors and creative practitioners living here in the region as well as world-class performers who live here and elsewhere in Aotearoa.

For the first time in many years, the Nelson Arts Festival will happen mostly in the inner city rather than at Founders Heritage Park. By collaborating with inner city venues, we can keep ticket prices low to free.

Underpinning all programming decisions is the belief, among board members, staff, contractors and volunteers, in the transformative power of culture; a conviction that sharing theatre, music, comedy, dance, visual arts and literature is the key to rebalancing and revitalising our region’s community.

Read the latest information about how we are responding to Covid-19 here.