Celebrate the longest night with us!
The 2012 Dunedin Midwinter Carnival will be held on Saturday 23rd of June, 5.30pm in the Octagon.
On the longest night of the year, the lights will be dimmed in the heart of Dunedin city for a magical procession of giant lanterns and spectacular performers. The iconic Dunedin Midwinter Carnival returns in 2012 with ‘A Frosty Night', New Zealand’s very own winter fairytale.
The Octagon’s Victorian streetscape will be brought to life, with fireworks, stilt walkers, musicians and dancers, who will orbit the Octagon, joined by hundreds of hand-made lanterns carried by local children. Juliet Novena Sorrel, the carnival’s Artistic Director describes this year’s event as an "evocative and magical evening" for all to enjoy.
This event is run by a non-profit organisation called the Dunedin Midwinter Celebrations Trust and a huge number of volunteers. If you'd like to be involved or to attend one of our workshops then please sign up to our newsletter below, or like us on our Facebook page to keep up to date with the latest news.
The 2011 Dunedin Midwinter Carnival
Last year's carnival attracted 10,000 spectators on a beautiful wintry night. Feature lanterns included giant weta, owls, moon and the stars of Matariki. Procession performers are always a major highlight with outstanding costumes created by local designers. See some wonderful photos by Alan Dove Photography in the gallery.