CREATE ‘Opening Night’ tickets now on sale

Tickets are now on sale for the official opening of CREATE Festival 2026.

People from across the North West are invited to celebrate the launch of the region’s premier arts and cultural festival on Friday 2 October.

‘Opening Night’ will be held at The Crossing Theatre and will launch two weeks of creativity, culture and community connection, with the festival continuing until 18 October.

Narrabri Shire mayor Darrell Tiemens said Opening Night was one of the highlights of the festival calendar and an opportunity to recognise the talent of artists from across the region.

“CREATE has become a much-loved event that brings our community together through art and creativity,” Cr Tiemens said.

“Opening Night is a chance to celebrate the artists who have contributed to this year’s exhibition, connect with fellow art lovers and experience the beginning of what promises to be another outstanding festival.”

The 2026 CREATE theme, Water, has inspired a collection of artworks exploring the ways water shapes landscapes, communities, stories and the environment.

Opening Night guests will be among the first to see the CREATE Festival Art Exhibition, featuring works by local and regional artists, while celebrating creativity across a range of forms.

The council’s corporate and community services director, Mark Watt, said the event would provide an opportunity to support local artists while enjoying a night out.

“CREATE is about fostering creativity, supporting artists and encouraging community participation in the arts,” Mr Watt said.

“Opening Night provides the perfect opportunity to meet the artists, view the exhibition and celebrate the cultural vibrancy of our region.”

The evening will begin with the unveiling of a new public art sculpture outside the Narrabri Region Visitor Information Centre at 6.30pm. The unveiling is free and open to everyone, and will add to Narrabri Shire’s growing public art collection.

Tickets to the Opening Night event cost $55 per person and include a complimentary welcome drink and canapes.

Cr Tiemens encouraged residents and visitors to secure their tickets early.

“Whether you’re a long-time supporter of the arts or simply looking for a great night out, CREATE Opening Night is an event not to be missed,” he said.

Tickets are available through The Crossing Theatre Box Office or online via createfestival.com.au

Further details about the events running during CREATE will be featured in a future edition.