Melbourne’s winter arts festival RISING has unveiled its final wave of programming for 2026, adding free public art, late-night dining, artist-run nightlife and talks across the city ahead of this year’s event.
Running from 27 May to 8 June, the expanded program stretches beyond theatres and concert halls, spilling into Fed Square, bars, restaurants and public spaces with more than 100 events planned across Melbourne.
One of the biggest additions is Midéegaadi, a large-scale projection and sound installation by Native American artist Cannupa Hanska Luger. Taking over Fed Square across the festival’s opening weekend, the work combines dance, video and sound to explore Indigenous futurism, cultural survival and connections between First Peoples communities globally.
The installation will also illuminate the façade of Hamer Hall as part of Calling Country: The Land Speaks Back, alongside projections featuring the Djirri Djirri Women’s Dance Group.
Fed Square will also host Sapporo Supper Club: Chīsai 小, described as the world’s smallest ramen-ya. The intimate dining experience seats just two people at a time, serving Hokkaido-style ramen and Sapporo beer in 30-minute sessions running Thursday to Saturday during the festival.
Across the city, the return of Moon Bites will see restaurants and bars launching special late-night menus for festivalgoers. Venues including Cathedral Coffee, Melbourne Supper Club, Dom’s Social Club, Bottega and Aru will serve everything from moon-inspired cocktails to post-show desserts and festival snacks.
Meanwhile, Wax Music Lounge will become the RISING Artist Bar, hosting free nightly performances, DJs and pop-up events featuring artists including Betty Grumble and Maxine Funke.
The festival’s talks and film program will also expand, with artist discussions, screenings and public conversations taking place throughout the city.
For the full RISING 2026 program, visit RISING Melbourne
