Perth is set for an electrifying week of world-class entertainment, with a stellar lineup of events spanning music, sport, theatre, and festivals. From the iconic sounds of Nick Cave to the high-octane debut of an international sailing championship, there's something for every taste across the city.
Music, Magic and Margaritas: The Headline Acts
The week kicks off with a major musical event as Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds bring their Wild God Tour to Fremantle Park on Saturday, January 17 at 6pm. This sunset concert promises a unique blend of large-scale production and the intimate atmosphere the band is famous for. Attendees should note it's general admission with no chairs or blankets permitted, though small cushions are allowed. Tickets are priced from $179.90 via Oztix.
For magic enthusiasts, the blockbuster-inspired illusion show Now You See Me Live makes its Perth premiere at the Crown Theatre from January 23 to February 1. The international ensemble, featuring Andrew Basso, Gabriella Lester, Matthew Pomeroy, and Pablo Canovas, will perform a series of stunning illusions. Tickets start at $69 through Ticketmaster.
Meanwhile, the Leederville Precinct is transforming into Margaritaville from January 17 to 25. This cocktail celebration features a margarita trail, a bottomless Latin feast at Servo, and an open-air long table dinner. Highlights include the Margaritaville Adventure on Saturdays and the Laneway Dinner in Electric Lane on January 18. Tickets are available at various prices on Eventbrite.
High-Speed Action and Free Festivities
In a major coup for Western Australia, the global SailGP championship makes its first-ever stop in Perth on January 17 and 18 at Bathers Beach, Fremantle. This event marks the start of the 2026 Rolex SailGP Championship season, with Fremantle also secured for the 2027 and 2028 circuits. Spectators can watch national teams race identical 50-foot foiling catamarans at speeds exceeding 100km/h just metres from the shore. A festival atmosphere with viewing parties and street performers is expected. Limited tickets remain from $100, and public transport is advised.
For those seeking free entertainment, Elizabeth Quay's Summer Series runs from January 17 to February 22. The program includes free movie screenings like the WA-filmed Blueback on Wednesdays, dance classes on Thursdays, DJ sets on Fridays and Saturdays, and live sunset gigs on Sundays featuring artists like Chalie Youngson and Catherine Summers.
Local Celebrations and Weekend Vibes
Adding to the local flavour, Gage Roads Freo celebrates its fourth birthday with a weekend party from January 23 to 25. The harbourside venue will feature a limited-release birthday beer, a Hottest 100 countdown party on Saturday, and a Sunday session with live music from the eight-piece band Playlunch, plus kids' activities. Entry is free.
With such a diverse array of events, Perth residents and visitors are guaranteed an unforgettable week of summer fun, showcasing the city's vibrant cultural and sporting calendar.
