The Ultimate Guide to Major Perth Events in 2026
Perth is gearing up for a blockbuster year in 2026 of major Perth events. From the roar of the crowd at Perth Stadium to the intimate melodies of world-class musicians at RAC Arena, the city is transforming into a global hub for entertainment and sport. Whether you are a die-hard sports fan, a music lover, or a professional looking for networking opportunities, Western Australia offers an unmissable calendar.
If you are planning your itinerary or looking for things to do in Perth, this guide breaks down the massive lineup of events that will define the year.
A Summer of Elite Tennis
The year kicks off with high-stakes competition. Summer in Perth is synonymous with an outdoor lifestyle, and 2026 elevates this tradition with international sporting spectacles.
United Cup 2026
Dates: January 2 – 7, 2026
Venue: RAC Arena
Tennis fever hits early as the United Cup returns. This isn’t just an exhibition; it is where the world’s highest-ranked tennis stars battle for country pride and crucial ranking points ahead of the Australian Open. The atmosphere at RAC Arena is electric during these matches. You can expect to see electric rallies and intense rivalries as mixed teams compete in a format that blends ATP and WTA talent. It is the perfect way to start your year of Perth sports and concerts.
Cycling Perth: Westbridge Funds RoadNats
Dates: January 7 – 11, 2026
Location: Kings Park and surrounds
Immediately following the tennis, the streets of Perth—and the scenic Kings Park—transform into a race track. The Westbridge Funds RoadNats brings Australia’s most prestigious cycling race to the city. Spectators can watch elite cyclists tackle three challenging courses. The centrepiece is the inner-city circuit, offering fans incredible vantage points to see the peloton whizz by against the backdrop of the Swan River and city skyline.
HoopsFest Returns
Dates: January 15 – 18, 2026
Venue: RAC Arena and various locations
Basketball culture takes over the city for HoopsFest 2026. This four-day festival is the ultimate celebration of the sport, featuring NBL and WNBL blockbusters. But it is more than just games; the event includes Sneakerland, Australia’s biggest sneaker culture showcase. Whether you are courtside for the Perth Wildcats or soaking up the energy at the Fan Festival, this event captures the urban pulse of Perth.
High-Speed Sailing Perth
Oracle Perth Sail Grand Prix
Dates: January 17 – 18, 2026, 1 p.m. when the sea breeze picks up.
Location: Fremantle
For the first time, Fremantle hosts the Oracle Perth Sail Grand Prix (SailGP). This is Formula 1 on water. High-tech, foiling catamarans race close to the shore at speeds exceeding 100kmph. The maritime heritage of Fremantle provides a stunning historic setting for this cutting-edge sporting display. It is a visual spectacle that perfectly utilises WA’s famous coastline and sea breeze.
Music Giants and Cultural Festivals
As summer peaks, Perth events 2026 pivot toward arts and massive stadium shows. The calendar is packed with international headliners that usually require a plane ticket to see.
Ed Sheeran at Optus Stadium
Dates: January 31 & February 1, 2026
Global superstar Ed Sheeran brings his Mathematics Tour to Optus Stadium for two massive nights. Expect a 360-degree stage setup, a setlist packed with hits, and a choir of 60,000 fans singing along. Stadium concerts in Perth offer a world-class acoustic experience, and Sheeran’s return is arguably one of the biggest musical events of the decade for the city.
A Star-Studded Concert Lineup
The music doesn’t stop with Sheeran. RAC Arena will host a parade of icons throughout early 2026:
- The Lumineers (Jan 21)
- David Byrne (Jan 27)
- Good Charlotte (Feb 17)
- OneRepublic (Feb 18)
- Lorde (Feb 25)
- Hilltop Hoods (Mar 21)
Perth Festival and Fringe World
Dates: February 6 – March 1, 2026
Cultural enthusiasts have plenty to celebrate. Perth Festival returns to light up the city with otherworldly experiences in theatre, film, literature, and visual arts. It is Australia’s longest-running arts festival and a cornerstone of the city’s identity.
Running alongside it is Fringe World (Jan 21 – Feb 15), offering over 600 acts ranging from cabaret and circus to comedy. It is the perfect time to explore the city’s hidden venues and pop-up bars.
Football Fever: Soccer and AFL
2026 is a landmark year for football codes in Western Australia, featuring both international tournaments and historic domestic rivalries.
AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026
Dates: March 1 – 31, 2026
Venue: Perth Rectangular Stadium (HBF Park)
Perth will proudly host Asia’s top female footballers for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup. The city will stage six group stage matches and two quarter-finals. Following the massive success of the Women’s World Cup, interest in women’s football is at an all-time high. This tournament brings the best talent from across the continent to our doorstep, promising fast-paced, skillful matches fueled by Perth’s vibrant sporting spirit.
When will Italian Soccer be played in Perth? AC Milan is playing Como at Perth Stadium on Sunday 8 February 2026, due to San Siro being used for the Winter Olympics. It’s going to be a hot game in February so players and spectators might enjoy the AC at Perth Italian restaurants.
AFL Origin Returns
Dates: February 14, 2026
Venue: Perth Stadium
In a groundbreaking move, AFL Origin returns to reignite one of football’s most passionate rivalries. A top-tier team of Western Australian AFL players will face off against their Victorian opponents. For footy fans, state pride is on the line, making this a must-watch encounter before the regular premiership season begins in March.
Speaking of the regular season, the Fremantle Dockers and West Coast Eagles kick off their campaigns in late March, ensuring weekends at Perth Stadium remain busy well into winter.
Rugby, Cricket, and Business Events
The variety of Perth sports and concerts ensures there is something for every demographic.
Cricket: Big Bash League
The summer wouldn’t be complete without cricket. The Perth Scorchers will light up the pitch with BBL matches throughout January, including clashes against the Adelaide Strikers (Jan 4) and Melbourne Stars (Jan 17).
HSBC SVNS Perth
Dates: February 7 – 8, 2026
Venue: HBF Park
Rugby sevens brings a carnival atmosphere to HBF Park. The HSBC SVNS is a two-day festival of sport, music, food, and culture. It is fast, furious, and incredibly social, making it a favourite for groups of friends and corporate hospitality.
Thought Leadership and Business
While sports dominate the headlines, the intellectual calendar is equally robust. The Summit at Lawson Flats (running Jan 14 – Feb 24) offers a series of talks and “In Conversation” events, such as the session with Joe Bloom. These gatherings provide vital networking opportunities and intellectual exchange, cementing Perth’s reputation as a city that fosters innovation alongside entertainment.
Conclusion
Perth in 2026 is not just hosting events; it is curating experiences. From the adrenaline of SailGP and AFL Origin to the cultural immersion of the Perth Festival and the global appeal of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, the city is showcasing its versatility.
If you are looking for things to do in Perth, the start of 2026 offers an embarrassment of riches. Plan, secure your tickets early, and get ready to be part of a year that will go down in history.