If you’ve ever wandered through The Garden of Unearthly Delights during Fring Season, you’ll know it’s pure magic. Fairy lights overhead, the smell of churros in the air, kids buzzing with excitement and parents quietly thrilled they’ve found something that keeps everyone happy.
And the best part … it’s open!!
From 13 February to 22 March 2026, The Garden again transforms Rundle Park/Kadlitpina into the beating heart of Adelaide Fringe, with more than 115 shows across a six-week season. And for families? It’s shaping up to be one of the best years yet.
Sumo, Science and Serious Laughs
One of the most talked-about arrivals this year is The Sumo Show Hirakuza, and it’s making its first-ever appearance outside Osaka, Japan, right here in Adelaide.
This isn’t just a wrestling demo. It’s a full theatrical experience blending ancient sumo tradition with comedy, storytelling and jaw-dropping physicality. Former pro wrestlers take the stage to reveal the rules, secret techniques and behind-the-scenes stories of sumo – all presented in English.
And yes, brave audience members can even suit up and challenge a wrestler in the ring. It’s educational, hilarious and wildly entertaining – the kind of show where kids are wide-eyed and adults are just as hooked.
For something equally energetic but a little more chaotic (in the best way), The Alphabet of Awesome Science returns to Adelaide courtesy of the multi-award-winning That Science Gang.
Professors Lexi Con and Noel Edge deliver an hour of carefully crafted chaos, where fascinating words inspire mind-blowing experiments. It’s loud, clever and guaranteed to get kids excited about science without even realising they’re learning.
They’re also bringing Splish Splash Science!, where water is the star of the show. Expect singing, dancing, explosive experiments and plenty of moments where you might need to duck for cover. Perfect for primary schoolers with big curiosity and even bigger energy.
Magic, Mayhem and Slime
For younger audiences (and their giggling grown-ups), The Fritz Magic(ish) Show is a 50-minute rollercoaster of tricks, mishaps and lovable chaos. Performed by Emilie Bloom, the show follows Fritz, an eccentric magician rabbit determined to recreate the tricks of their mysteriously vanished mentor, Madame Magica.
It’s playful, interactive and ideal for kids aged 5–13, with plenty of moments that will have the whole tent laughing.
Then there’s Grossed Out Game Show, which is exactly as wild as it sounds. Two celebrity team captains lead opposing halves of the audience through ridiculous challenges and absurd trivia, all in the hope of winning litres of slime.
If your kids love anything messy, noisy or slightly outrageous, this one’s going to be a hit.
Beloved Favourites Return
Some crowd favourites are also back for another season. The Amazing Drumming Monkeys – Dance Party delivers high-energy puppet fun that gets little bodies moving. Trash Test Dummies returns for a final time with its signature slapstick comedy, and iconic Aussie children’s entertainer Peter Combe is once again bringing his quirky songs to The Garden stage.
For something hands-on, Upsound Instruments – Make & Play Workshop runs across the entire six weeks, giving kids the chance to turn upcycled materials into their own musical instruments. It’s creative, noisy and a great breather between shows.
Circus, Cabaret and Shows Made by Kids
Families looking for something a little different can check out Camp Culture, a fabulous circus adventure led by Dale Woodbridge Brown. Expect flips, laughs and a powerful message about being bold, proud and unapologetically you.
For toddlers and preschoolers, Monski Mouse’s Baby Cabaret Deluxe brings sparkly, bonkers musical fun, covering everything from elephants and fish to the existential musings of toddlers. It’s colourful, interactive and designed with little ones firmly in mind.
And for a truly unique Fringe experience, The Pinky Pie Party – Part 2 is created by kids, for kids. Hosted by nine-year-old DJ Alba Lorca, it’s the only show at the Fringe made entirely with young audiences at its heart.
More Than Just Shows
Of course, part of the magic of The Garden isn’t just what’s happening on stage.
The beloved carnival atmosphere returns with arcade games and classic rides, including The Big Wheel, The Dodgems and The Tea Cups. New for 2026 is The Slingshot, a thrill ride that catapults brave riders high into the air … perfect for teens chasing that adrenaline rush.
There are plenty of food options, open spaces to picnic, and that relaxed outdoor vibe that makes it easy to spend an entire afternoon (or evening) there without anyone getting bored.
Why The Garden of Unearthly Delights Is a Family Favourite
Michelle Buxton, Co-Director of The Garden of Unearthly Delights, says 2026 is packed with shows that truly cater to everyone.
And that’s the beauty of it.
You can book a science show for the kids, a circus performance for the tweens, and still walk away feeling like you’ve all shared something special together.
Its Reputation at The Adelaide Fringe is Unwavering
With over 70 five-star reviews in 2025 alone, The Garden has cemented its reputation for delivering world-class entertainment right here in Adelaide. But what makes it stand out for families is the atmosphere. It’s welcoming, vibrant and genuinely designed to include kids, not just tolerate them.
If you’re planning your Fringe calendar and wondering where to start, The Garden is an easy yes.
Tickets to all shows at The Garden of Unearthly Delights are on sale now – and if past years are anything to go by, the family favourites won’t stay available for long.
