Tropfest returns to Centennial Park for one unforgettable night under the stars.

Free, open-air and proudly Australian, Tropfest is where the country comes together to watch bold new short films, celebrate creative voices, and share stories that connect us.

Bring a picnic rug, bring your people, and settle in for an evening of film, music and collective experience.

This is a free event - however free of charge registration is required - click link below.

Stories That Connect Us

register now via eventbrite

Event Details

  • Date: Sunday, 22 February 2026

  • Location: Brazilian Fields, Centennial Park, Sydney

  • Cost: Free

  • Gates open: 12 noon

  • Screening begins: Sundown

  • Cant’t make it to Sydney? Watch the livestream!

Get Livestream Reminder

 

Agenda for the Day

What to expect:

  • 12:00 PM Gates open: Bring a picnic, find your patch of grass, and settle in.

  • 12:00 - 4:45 PM Pre-show entertainment: Live music, activations, roaming moments, our pre-show host kicks off as the park comes alive. Get your seat and bring your friends. 

  • 5:45 PM Broadcast begins: For those tuning in from home, our YouTube livestream goes live 

  • 7:20 PM   Films begin: Stories that connect us, under the stars.

  • 8:30 PM Intermission (20 mins): Stretch your legs, grab a drink and something to eat, soak it all in.

  • 10:00 PM Trophy presentation: The winners take the stage.

  • 10:30 PM The night comes to a close: One last cheer before the night winds down.

WHAT TO BRING

Think relaxed, summer picnic vibes.

We recommend:

  • A picnic rug or low chair only (to keep sight lines clear)

  • A hat, sunscreen and water

  • A warm layer for later in the evening

  • Friends, family and a sense of humour

Food trucks and licensed bars will be available onsite.

How to Get There

With thousands of people expected, public transport and rideshare are strongly encouraged.

Centennial Park is easily accessible by

Bus routes from the CBD and surrounding suburbs (see below) 

Train to Bondi Junction followed by a short walk or bus connection

Light Rail L2 - Royal Randwick or Moore Park

Rideshare or Taxi - drop off point is Driver Avenue Moore Park. 

Walking or cycling (please note there is limited bike parking inside the park)


Please plan ahead and allow extra travel time, as routes will be busier than usual.

 
 
 

Our Charity Partner: Youngcare

Tropfest 2026 proudly partners with Youngcare, our Principal Charity Partner.

Youngcare works to create independence, dignity and choice for young people with complex physical disabilities -  ensuring they can live with the freedom every young person deserves.

  • Watch the Youngcare story

  • Support their work:

Donate to Youngcare Here
 
 

Program Guide

Want the full rundown?

Very soon you will be able to download the official Tropfest 2026 program, including the running order, film synopses and all the event details.

Coming soon

Event Frequently Asked Questions

Event Essentials

  • Tropfest 2026 is taking place on Sunday, February 22, 2026. We are thrilled to be back! The event will be held at Brazilian Fields, Centennial Park, NSW, 2021. Gates open at noon, with entertainment starting earlier in the day and the film screenings kicking off at sundown.

  • YES! General Admission to Tropfest remains FREE, but registration is required HERE (free of charge). We believe in making culture accessible to everyone. That said, we are a not-for-profit and, if so inclined, you can also support us by coming along and buy patronising the various exciting things we have on offer at Centennial Park, eg. food and beverages and official Tropfest merchandise!

  • Yes - while it is FREE, we need all attendees to register your attendance online HERE. This helps us manage numbers and sends important updates (like weather alerts or set times) directly to your phone.

  • Tropfest is an all-weather event - rain, hail, or shine! We will only cancel if conditions are deemed dangerous (e.g., lightning or extreme winds). If it looks grey, bring a poncho or raincoat and still come out to support our emerging filmmakers. Some of the best Tropfests were held in the rain! Please note: Umbrellas are discouraged as they block the view for people behind you.

  • The Tropfest Signature Item is the object a filmmaker must include in their film to prove that it was made for Tropfest. The TSI for 2026 is “Hourglass”.

Getting There & Entry

  • With thousands of people expected to attend, we strongly encourage using public transport, walking, cycling or rideshare where possible. Public transport routes and active travel options will be the easiest way to access the site, and we recommend allowing extra time for travel as services and surrounding roads will be busier than usual. Full transport details, including recommended routes and drop-off zones, will be shared closer to the event via our website and social channels. You can also see the parklands transport guide HERE.

  • Main access is via Paddington Gates (Bus routes on Oxford St) and Robertson Road Gates from the Light Rail stop at Moore Park.  Keep an eye on our socials and event updates for the final access guide.

  • Yes. There are a small number of bike racks available within Centennial Park. The best idea is to use ride share or public transport options.

House Rules – What Can I Bring?

  • Yes. Tropfest is a family-friendly, all ages event, however please note that some films may contain mature themes. Parental discretion is advised and minors must be accompanied by a responsible adult 18+. Please note that licensed areas are 18+ only. 

  • Sure - you are very welcome to bring low chairs only. Anything that blocks views won’t be permitted by our onsite security.

  • No. For safety and sightline reasons, tents, umbrellas and shade structures are not permitted.

  • Yes. Feel free to bring your own picnic. There will also be plenty of food and drink available to purchase inside the event site. There will also be free drinking water points inside the precinct. For safety reasons please ensure no glass containers onsite - you must use non-shatter containers e.g. paper, etc.

  • Yes. You may bring alcohol, but we also encourage you to support Tropfest, a not-for-profit event, by enjoying the offerings from our licensed bars. Alcohol may be bought in reasonable quantities only. Excessive amounts intended for heavy consumption will not be permitted.  Please note - for safety reasons no glass containers are permitted onsite.  However we are happy for attendees to bring sealed glass wine or beer bottles for personal consumption. Any drinking cups or containers provided or used onsite must be a non-shatter material e.g. paper etc.

  • Sunscreen, water, something comfy to sit on, and a sense of adventure. A picnic blanket never hurts either.

  • There sure will be! Keep an eye out for exclusive Tropfest merch at the event. More details are coming soon and there will be an official stand inside the precinct.

Once I’m There

  • Absolutely. The official Tropfest Market will feature a wide range of food trucks and vendors, with something for everyone.

  • Smoking and vaping are restricted to designated areas only. Please follow signage and staff directions.

  • Yes. Tropfest is committed to making the event as accessible as possible. Centennial Park offers accessible paths and facilities. More accessibility details will be shared closer to the event.

  •  Please head to the Information Tent or speak to one of our friendly staff or volunteers. We’ll help reunite you as quickly as possible.

  • Our staff, volunteers and first aid team will be onsite and ready to assist.