ADELAIDE
Mourning in the Morning
Monday 26 January 2026 | 7.30am | Elder Park / Tarntanya Wama, Adelaide SA
South Australians are warmly invited to honour Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, histories, cultures and perspectives at the Australia Day Council of SA’s Mourning in the Morning event early on 26 January 2026.
Together we will continue to create a respectful and inclusive ceremony with a focus on Our Continuing Journey led and shaped by South Australian First Nations community leaders.
Held in Elder Park/Tarntanya Wama on the banks of Adelaide’s River Torrens/Karrawirra Parri, this groundbreaking First Nations-led event is for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and non-Indigenous Australians.
Gather at 8am for a welcome to Kaurna country, followed by First Nations speakers, musicians, dancers, and interactive activities grounded in respect. The event will feature a smoking ceremony conducted by Elder Uncle Moogy Sumner.
For full program details head to www.auslights.au
Mourning in the Morning Smoking Ceremony community support partners Adelaide PHN, Adelaide University, Credit Union SA, Sarah Constructions, SDA , SA Power Networks and Sofitel Adelaide.
The program is assisted by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council and the City the Adelaide and is supported by the Government of South Australia.
Aus Lights on the River 2026
Monday 26 January 2026 | 5pm - 11pm | Elder Park / Tarntanya Wama, Adelaide SA
Aus Lights on the River will be a vibrant and inclusive FREE program of events that remind us we are all part of the story. The program invites all South Australians to reflect on this great land and its people.
The evening kicks off with the Aus Lights Parade on King William Street. This vibrant Parade honours our diverse community organisations, reflecting the rich diversity of South Australians at their best.
The Official Ceremony features live performances from the dynamic Diana Rouvas (Winner of The Voice Australia), Festival Statesmen Choir, Young Adelaide Voices and musical collaborations with the Adelaide Youth Orchestra.
The program of activities will conclude with a spectacular fireworks display over the River Torrens.
Aus Lights on the River 2026 is assisted by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council and the City of Adelaide and is supported by the Government of South Australia.
Aus Lights Parade
26 January 2026 | 6.00pm-7.00pm | Travelling along King William St to Elder Park, Adelaide
The parade begins at 6pm on War Memorial Drive and proceeds into King William Street, finishing at Elder Park. Visitors can view the parade map, including the full route and the best viewing areas.
This vibrant celebration brings together more than 50 South Australian community organisations, showcasing the diversity, creativity and spirit of our state. It is a moment of inclusion, respect and shared belonging, filled with colour, music, dance, cultural groups, performers, and charities that enrich our community.
As the Aus Lights Parade concludes, join us in Elder Park to continue the celebration. The main stage will feature energetic performances from the Aus Lights Parade community organisations.
Aus Lights Parade community support partners South Australian Aquatic & Leisure Centre , Galipo Foods and Altus Traffic.
Click to view the Aus Lights Parade Route Map