The City of Lights Festival is a free, two-night community event transforming the Tamworth CBD into a glowing after-dark destination. Under the theme "Land and Light", the festival celebrates Tamworth's pioneering, innovative spirit — the city that turned night into day over a century before the rest of Australia caught up — alongside a nod to First Nations connection to Country. Expect illuminated installations, light displays and a vibrant street atmosphere for the whole family.
This festival is about bringing Tamworth's city centre to life after dark — drawing locals and visitors into the CBD and supporting local business. Delivered under the NSW Government's Regional Night-Time Economy Program, it's just the beginning: from October 2026, Light Up Late brings Friday night trading events to the CBD on selected dates through to March 2027, keeping Tamworth glowing all season long.
Proudly delivered by the Tamworth Business Chamber and the Tamworth Business Collective, and funded by the NSW Government through the Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner's Regional Night-Time Economy Program.Proudly delivered with our Business Collective.
Become a participating business or retail venue for our event!
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Program coming soon — check back as we reveal what's lighting up the CBD this September.
Is it free?
Yes! The City of Lights Festival is free and family-friendly.
More FAQs — parking, accessibility, weather, kids, dogs, public transport — to be added as details are confirmed.
