Perth is gearing up for a spectacular summer season in 2026, with a vibrant lineup of festivals, fitness, wellness, and rooftop entertainment set to define the coming months. From the sprawling spectacle of Fringe World to boutique new openings across the city, there's an abundance of ways to enjoy the warm weather.
Fringe World Festival Returns with a Massive Program
The fabulous and eclectic Fringe World festival is once again descending upon Perth, offering an incredible array of performances. Running from January 21 to February 15, 2026, the festival will feature more than 600 individual shows. Audiences can choose from comedy, music, musicals, circus acts, and plenty of free events, including the iconic mermaids at The Pleasure Garden.
Key highlights for the 2026 season include the Japanese circus act Cirquework’s Gasha, the glamorous comedy-cabaret-musical The Lady Boys of Bangkok, Anna Thomas’s one-woman show How To Drink Wine Like A Wanker, and the Kath and Kim drag tribute prequel Fountain Lakes: Y2K.
A major drawcard this year is the solo debut of Miss Frisky, famously known as half of the duo Frisky & Mannish. Her show, Frisky’s Reshuffle, marks her first solo performance since 2016. In an interactive format, the audience can challenge Frisky and her four-piece band to play any song in any musical style, promising a unique and unpredictable night of entertainment.
New Lifestyle Openings Across the City
Beyond the festival, several new venues are enhancing Perth's lifestyle scene. In Northbridge, a new immersive rhythm ride studio called Pedal Pop has opened its doors. Designed to be inclusive for all fitness levels, from complete beginners to avid gym-goers, the studio features high-quality bikes, cinema-grade sound, and striking lighting for its 45-minute classes. Memberships start from $39 per week.
For those seeking wellness and style, Cottesloe's haven Heartwood has launched a new collection of mala bracelets. Crafted from sustainably sourced Indian sandalwood and paired with stones like sodalite and black onyx, these bracelets are rooted in ancient spiritual traditions and are said to connect with various body chakras. The collection is available in both small and large sizes.
QT Perth Launches Rooftop Racquet Club
Capitalising on Australia's summer grand slam tennis energy, QT Perth has launched its Rooftop Racquet Club. The pop-up venue, which will operate from January 2 to March 31, 2026, features a pickleball court and a specially curated new menu. It's the perfect spot for those inspired by the United Cup at RAC Arena and the upcoming Australian Open in Melbourne, with cocktails like the Match Point Paloma already drawing attention.
With this diverse mix of cultural, fitness, and leisure activities, Perth's 2026 summer is shaping up to be one of the most engaging in recent years, offering something for every local and visitor to enjoy.
