Looking for what’s on in Auckland this March? Auckland Arts Festival opens next week and we’ve rounded up the best free events to help you plan your Festival experience.
From outdoor block parties and family-friendly fun to large-scale art installations and live music in the heart of the city, there’s something for everyone. Grab your diary and make space to relax in the Festival Garden, explore immersive artworks and discover emerging artists on the rova Sound Stage.
Saufiafia! Boogie Down
Thursday 5 March, 5.30pm, Aotea Square
Throw on your dancing shoes and come boogie down with us to the funky, soulful rhythms of Island Vibes. Let it all out and dance like nobody’s watching, then head on out for an opening night show or a hangout at the Festival Garden in the golden hour sunlight. Good vibes, guaranteed!
BIG FAN Block Party
BIG FAN takes over the rova Sound Stage with a showcase of some of Aotearoa’s most exciting emerging talent, including Naimah, Emerson, Paige, Sarvi and Greatsouth. Fresh sounds, big energy and completely free.
Whānau Day
Sunday 8 March, 10am – 4pm, Aotea square
A sun-filled day of whānau fun and festival magic. A Festival favourite and the perfect way for tamariki and their parents to experience the arts together in the heart of Tāmaki Makaurau.
Click here for more info and the Whānau Day schedule
Helios
7-15 March, Concert Chamber, Auckland Town Hall
For one week only, step into the glow of Helios, a breathtaking, larger-than-life artwork created by renowned UK artist Luke Jerram. Arriving in New Zealand for the first time, Helios is both a scientific wonder and a multi-sensory artwork, offering a rare opportunity to visualise the beauty and complexity of our closest star – don't miss your chance to catch a glimpse up-close before this sun sets.
Co-commissioned by National Trust, Cork Midsummer Festival, Liverpool Cathedral, Old Royal Naval College and University College London. Proudly supported by the city centre targeted rate.
Evanescent by Atelier Sisu
5-22 March, Aotea Square
Step into Evanescent, a dreamlike, immersive artwork by Atelier Sisu that transforms the city into a glowing playground. Wander through shifting light and colour and experience public space in a whole new way.
Presented by Auckland Arts Festival, In association with Auckland Live
Proudly supported by the city centre targeted rate
Global Music Block Party
Saturday 14 March, 12-4pm, Aotea Square
Travel the world in an afternoon. This vibrant block party brings together international sounds, infectious rhythms and feel-good grooves from across the globe. Artists include Willie T, Basant Madhur Ensemble, ZORA and The Afro Jazz Ensemble. The perfect way to discover something new while soaking up the Festival Garden atmosphere.
Visual Arts
Looking for what’s on indoors? Our visual arts partners are presenting a wide range of free exhibitions, artist talks and open days throughout the Festival. Ideal for a rainy autumn afternoon.
Click here for exhibitions that are a part of the Festival
rova Sound Stage
The heartbeat of the Festival — live, loud and completely free.
The rova Sound Stage hosts a revolving lineup of music, performances, pop-ups and community energy across the Festival. Drop by for a lunchtime gig, a sunset session or a weekend dance.
Click here for more information and schedule.
