GEORGE TOWN, June 5 — George Town Festival (GTF) will return for its 17th edition from August 1 to 9, 2026, featuring more than 40 programmes and artists from 10 countries.
Held under the theme “Beyond Boundaries”, the festival will transform George Town’s heritage buildings, streets, public spaces and unconventional venues.
Into platforms for artistic exploration, cultural exchange and creative expression. More than 80 per cent of the programmes will be free to attend.
Teinforcing the festival’s commitment to accessibility and community engagement. Penang EXCO for Tourism and Creative Economy Wong Hon Wai said GTF has grown from a UNESCO-linked initiative launched in 2010.
Into one of the region’s most recognised contemporary arts festivals. Highlights include the opening weekend event “Six to Eleven” at Padang Kota Lama.
The large-scale “Heritage in Motion: TERANG” visual spectacle, performances by Sarawakian musician Alena Murang, indigenous collective At Adau and Germany’s DUNDU giant light puppets.
The festival will also feature seven ticketed productions from Malaysia, South Korea, Taiwan and Japan, alongside exhibitions, workshops, film screenings and artist residencies.
Wong said GTF has played a significant role in shaping Penang’s creative ecosystem while strengthening tourism, community engagement and cultural development across the state.
Tickets for selected performances will go on sale from June 10.
