Despite some last-minute changes with artist travel plans disrupted by the sudden unrest in the Middle East, the show must go on. Inside the Botanic Gardens, it was like a sanctuary, fruit bats overhead and seven stages all playing a variety of world music. Day one of WOMADelaide 2026 kicked off in fine style.
As well as the music on stages, roving and pop-up performances meant that there was something to be seen around every corner. The duo named Cie Hors Surface hanging from a ladder near stage 3. The comical Born in a Taxi roaming and selecting audience members to be read a story while being carried around the garden. The talented hairdressers Osadia are back and many fantastic hair creations were seen wandering and watching the music.
Cuban pianist and singer Roberto Fonseca and his swing band had the crowd jumping onthe main stage. Irish band Beoga were delightful to watch as the sun settled over the gardens. Everywhere seemed to exude music. The Greek band Xylourides playing amongst the Morton Bay Trees were a drawcard.
The main act of the evening, Italian singer Javonotti had a dedicated fan club that loved his his energy on the main stage. It was a positive end to the evening with many happy faces in the crowd.
Check out the photo gallery from John Goodridge
The World’s Festival since 1992, WOMADelaide is a unique part of Australia’s festival landscape, showcasing the best, the essential and the surprising – in music, arts, dance, food and ideas from around the world. For the past 33 years, thousands of music lovers come together across four days to listen, dance and discover, creating a much-loved sense of community.
6 – 9 March 2026. Botanic Park / Tainmuntilla, Adelaide
Tickets and more information on the website
