2026 - Press Release - Lake Light Sculpture celebrates 25 years with big plans for 2026 event
MEDIA RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Lake Light Sculpture celebrates 25 years with big plans for 2026 event
JINDABYNE, NSW
Lake Light Sculpture is preparing for its biggest event yet, celebrating 25 years of light, art and community when the festival returns to the Lake Jindabyne foreshore over the Easter long weekend, 3–6 April 2026.
First presented in 2001, the much-loved alpine event has grown into one of the Snowy Mountains’ signature autumn experiences. The 2026 edition will mark this milestone with live entertainment from local legends The Hip Replacements and Studio 22 Dance school, fireworks, and new evening activations designed to extend the experience across the wider park precinct.
While final elements remain subject to approval, planning is well underway as the volunteer-run committee works behind the scenes to deliver a fitting celebration of the event’s 25-year legacy.
“Reaching 25 years is something we’re incredibly proud of,” said Lake Light Sculpture Chair Dani Kell. “Lake Light has always been about creativity, connection and place — and we’re excited to make 2026 a true celebration of that legacy.”
Airbnb partnership supports regional visitation
Lake Light Sculpture has recently announced a partnership with Airbnb, supporting regional visitation over the Easter period and encouraging longer stays across the Snowy Mountains. The collaboration aims to drive deeper engagement with the region while supporting local businesses during the shoulder season.
CLICK HERE to find out more.
Major sponsor support
The 2026 event is proudly supported by Mountainside, the prestigious land estate overlooking Jindabyne Lake, as the Platinum Award Sponsor, alongside strong backing from local & regional businesses.
Gold Sponsors - Boco Rock · Snowy Hydro · Snowy Regional Solar & Solar Hub
Silver Sponsors - Rebel Penfold-Russell · Belle Property · Banjo Paterson Inn · Jindabyne Real Estate · Thredbo Resort · Oaks Lake Crackenback
Bronze Sponsors - Perisher · Lean 2 Constructions · NewsXpress · Jindabyne Pharmacy · Mountain Munchies · Jindabyne Rode.
In addition, more than 75 community sponsors, individuals and small businesses have come on board to support the Snowies’ favourite autumn event.
Artists, awards & entries
Artist entries for Lake Light Sculpture 2026 are now open and close 20 February 2026, with 10 Airbnb accommodation vouchers available to encourage early submissions. Award categories and full prize details will be released mid-February, including a guaranteed $10,000 Major Award.
The committee has confirmed the return of local artist Brad Spalding, alongside Life Member Todd Coaster, with a strong mix of returning and new artists to be announced in the coming months.
The final event program will be released early March 2026.
New Smalls Marquee announced
In response to artist feedback, Lake Light Sculpture 2026 will introduce a dedicated Smalls Marquee located within the main event precinct.
Designed to better showcase intricate and smaller-scale works, the new marquee creates a more integrated experience for both artists and visitors, ensuring these pieces are seen, explored and celebrated as part of the core exhibition.
Further details on the Smalls Marquee and entry requirements will be released soon.
Community involvement & activations
Local businesses, community groups and creatives are invited to get involved through food stalls, activations and on-site experiences across the four-day program. Businesses interested in participating are encouraged to contact the committee.
New website launch
Thanks to secured funding, the committee has spent summer developing a new Lake Light Sculpture website. The updated platform streamlines artist entry, sponsorship information, event updates and artwork sales - making it easier for artists, supporters and visitors to stay connected year-round.
Planning continues with a strong focus on collaboration, community and creativity.
“As a volunteer-run event, Lake Light relies heavily on local partnerships and community input,” Ms Kell said. “If you have ideas, resources or simply want to be part of this milestone year, we’d love to hear from you.”
Media & PR
Marketing and public relations for Lake Light Sculpture 2026 are managed by MAIS Studio.
Media enquiries:
Alandra Swain
MAIS Studio
marketing@lakelightsculpture.com.au