Kelowna’s Living Things Festival 2026: The Unstoppable Arts Event You Cannot Afford to Miss!

Kelowna, British Columbia, is about to be transformed into a dazzling showcase of creativity and artistic expression. From January 20 to February 1, 2026, the Living Things International Arts Festival will celebrate contemporary performance art, live theatre, music, dance, and interactive experiences. This festival, a vital part of the city’s cultural calendar, promises to engage audiences with innovative performances and a chance to experience the art world in ways they’ve never imagined. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this festival is an unmissable event that celebrates the power of creativity and human connection.

What is the Living Things Festival?

The Living Things International Arts Festival is Kelowna’s largest winter arts event. Founded in 2017, it has grown into one of the most important cultural gatherings in the region. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the festival, making it an even more significant celebration of creativity. The festival brings together international and local artists to showcase their work in various art forms, including live theatre, performance art, experimental music, dance, film, and much more.

Unlike many other arts festivals, Living Things focuses on contemporary and experimental performances. It encourages artists to push the boundaries of their craft, offering audiences an exciting, thought‑provoking experience. It takes place in multiple venues across Kelowna’s Cultural District, including the Rotary Centre for the Arts, Kelowna Community Theatre, and the Black Box Theatre, each offering a unique atmosphere for the diverse performances.

A Rich Cultural History and Growing Legacy

From its humble beginnings, the Living Things Festival has become a cultural phenomenon in Kelowna. Over the years, the festival has attracted audiences from across Canada and beyond. It serves as an essential platform for both emerging artists and established performers to present their work, offering them the opportunity to reach a wider audience while contributing to the city’s artistic reputation.

In addition to providing entertainment, the Living Things Festival has contributed to Kelowna’s cultural economy by bringing visitors to the region during the winter months. The event has become a crucial part of the city’s Cultural District, which is home to many artists, performers, and art lovers. As the festival continues to grow, it not only showcases the best of contemporary performance but also nurtures local talent, giving artists from Kelowna a stage to express their voices.

A Celebration of Artistic Innovation

The core mission of the Living Things Festival is to celebrate artistic innovation. Each year, the festival curates a selection of performances that challenge conventional ideas of art. This is the festival’s true essence — boundary-pushing works that provoke thought and spark conversation. Whether it’s through live theatre, multimedia performances, or immersive dance experiences, the festival invites audiences to rethink the way they experience art.

2026’s edition of Living Things will feature a wide array of performances, each offering something unique. The festival includes interactive workshops where audiences can engage directly with the artists, making the experience more personal and immersive. It’s not just about watching the performances; it’s about becoming a part of the artistic journey.

Key Performances and Events to Look Out For

The Living Things Festival 2026 promises a lineup of spectacular events that will leave audiences in awe. Here are some of the standout performances and events you can expect:

PINA – A Film Journey into Dance (20 January)

The festival kicks off with PINA, a visually stunning film about the groundbreaking choreographer Pina Bausch, directed by Wim Wenders. This film captures the beauty of dance, providing audiences with a rare glimpse into Bausch’s work. It’s a perfect way to begin the festival, setting the stage for what’s to come. The film, though a different medium, perfectly embodies the spirit of the festival — a celebration of movement, expression, and creativity.

Objects in Motion – Animated Film Showcase (22 January)

For those who appreciate animation and experimental film, the Objects in Motion showcase is a must-see. Curated by local artist Myron Campbell, this program features an exciting collection of international animated short films. These films mix humour and social commentary, making the experience both entertaining and thought-provoking. It’s a unique opportunity to see some of the most innovative work in animation, with styles ranging from hand-drawn to digital storytelling.

Through My Lens – A Personal Theatre Experience (23–24 January)

Through My Lens is a deeply personal performance by artist Amy Amantea that explores perception, vision, and identity. The show draws from Amy’s own experience of visual impairment, offering audiences a glimpse into a world that many rarely see. It’s an intimate performance that mixes theatre and visual art, creating a powerful, emotional experience that will leave a lasting impression.

Brazilian Samba Batucada – Interactive Music Workshop (24 January)

If you’re interested in music and rhythm, don’t miss the Brazilian Samba Batucada workshop. This engaging, interactive experience lets you get hands-on with Brazilian samba percussion. Whether you’re an experienced drummer or a beginner, this workshop offers a fun, energetic way to connect with music. It’s a great example of how the Living Things Festival blends performance with participation, making the audience an active part of the festival.

The Beanstalk Market Crash – A Theatrical Satire (25 January)

This theatrical performance combines live action, shadow puppetry, and projections to satirize capitalism and societal ambition. The Beanstalk Market Crash offers a playful yet insightful commentary on modern life, drawing on themes that resonate with contemporary society. It’s a performance that is both fun and thought-provoking, making it a standout in the festival lineup.

Play Dead – A Surreal Performance (27 January)

Play Dead is a surreal, hybrid performance that combines acrobatics, movement, and physical theatre. It’s a performance that invites the audience into a world of unpredictability, where reality and imagination blur. Expect the unexpected as the performers use their bodies to tell a story that is both whimsical and profound.

My Great Work – A Miniature Theatre (28–29 January)

In My Great Work, Spanish artist David Espinosa uses miniature figures and objects to tell a story on a small scale. This innovative performance explores human ambition and creativity, inviting the audience to experience art from a new perspective. It’s a truly unique performance that showcases the power of object theatre and creativity.

Punch Line – A Solo Performance (30 January)

Punch Line is a comedy performance by Jacques Poulin‑Denis that mixes stand‑up comedy with theatre. The performance explores identity, humour, and personal reflection, providing both laughs and deep insights into the human experience. It’s a brilliant fusion of two art forms, creating a show that is as entertaining as it is thought-provoking.

Wayqeycuna – A Dance and Tradition Performance (30 January)

This performance by Tiziano Cruz brings together dance, tradition, and ancestral narratives to honour community and identity. Wayqeycuna is a beautiful celebration of cultural heritage and artistic expression, offering a moving experience that connects the audience to the performer’s roots.

La Cosa Espinosa – Miniature Object Theatre (1 February)

To close the festival, David Espinosa presents an interactive workshop focused on miniature object theatre. Participants will get the chance to manipulate tiny figures and objects to create their own narratives, bringing the art of storytelling to a new scale. It’s an engaging and creative way to conclude the festival, providing participants with the tools to explore art in their own way.

Workshops and Audience Engagement

The Living Things Festival isn’t just about watching performances; it’s about engaging with the art. The festival offers a wide range of workshops and educational events that allow the audience to become part of the creative process. These include rhythm workshops, dance improvisation sessions, and discussions with the artists themselves. These workshops foster a deeper connection between the audience and the performers, allowing for a more immersive and personal experience.

Why You Can’t Miss the Living Things Festival

The Living Things Festival is a celebration of everything that is bold, innovative, and exciting about the world of contemporary performance. It’s a festival that invites you to see the world through the eyes of artists who challenge the status quo and redefine what art can be. From live theatre to experimental music and interactive workshops, this festival offers a rich, diverse cultural experience that’s perfect for anyone looking to explore the cutting edge of artistic expression.

If you’re in Kelowna this winter, the Living Things International Arts Festival is an unmissable event that promises to inspire, entertain, and transform. Whether you’re a seasoned art lover or a curious newcomer, there’s something for everyone at this incredible festival.

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