The Jindabyne Lake Light Sculpture (LLS) festival marks a milestone this year, celebrating 25 years since its inception.

The long-running Easter event, which has become one of the Snowy Mountains’ signature experiences will be remaining on the foreshore over the Easter long weekend in 2026 with a robust program and a larger event precinct in the works.

The 2026 edition is set to feature live music from the Hip Replacements and dance performances by Studio 22, as part of an expanded line-up designed to energise the experience for all.

LLS organisers say the festival will also introduce a more extensive event precinct and a renewed focus on activating the space with local food and beverage offerings, though exact arrangements are still subject to final approvals.

Something special and for the first time ever, the LLS committee have planned fireworks display for the celebration, with the location and schedule to be confirmed closer to the event date.

“While fireworks have been confirmed its unsure on what day it will happen over the four-day event, details will be confirmed closer to the event,” an LLS organiser said.

“A key priority for the year is to create a more sustainable event that can endure beyond 2026.

“The volunteer-run committee is exploring innovative revenue streams and community support to ensure the festival remains viable year after year, while continuing to engage local businesses and volunteers.”

Partnerships and sponsorships form a major backbone of the festival’s plans.

Lakelight recently announced a collaboration with Airbnb aimed at boosting regional visitation during the Easter period and enhancing the overall 2026 experience.

Airbnb’s support is helping fund the fireworks display and digital developments for the event.

Local business Mountainside is returning as a major sponsor, with gold sponsors including Boco Rock Community Enhancement Fund, Snowy Hydro through its Community Enhancement Fund, and Snowy Regional Solar and Solar Hub.

Silver sponsors include a range of local names, such as Bell, Banjo’s, Jindabyne Real Estate, Thredbo, Oaks Lake Crackenback, and others, while bronze sponsors feature Perisher, Lean to Constructions, News Express, Jindabyne Pharmacy, Mountain Munchies, Snowy Mountains Community Association, and the Man from Snowy River Rodeo.

Along with more than 75 community sponsors, also backing the 2026 festival.

Artist entries for the 2026 Lakelight edition are still open and close on February 20.

While some favourites have already confirmed their return, organizers say more participants are expected to enter.

Returning favourites such as local artist, Brad Spalding, from Wild Brumby Distillery, with other notable artists like last year’s award-winning artist, Maddie Last, and Life member Todd Costa are expected to participate.

Local businesses and community groups are encouraged to get involved through food activations and on-site experiences across the four-day program.

A new festival website has been developed to streamline artist entry, sponsorship information, event updates, and the sale of artwork, making it easier for attendees to stay connected year-round.

The committee emphasises that Lakelight remains a fully volunteer-run project, driven by a small team of dedicated individuals who love the festival and the community it serves.

“In addition to the milestone celebrations, this year’s focus includes speeches from past and present committee members and an invitation for community memories and stories from those who have helped light up the lake over the years,” an LLS organiser said.

“For more information or to get involved, interested parties can reach out via the Lakelight Sculpture website contact form or the festival’s official email.

“Details about final schedules, fireworks logistics, and the full program will be released in the coming weeks as plans are confirmed."