Image: South Australia Whale Centre
There’s something magical about looking up at a clear night sky and seeing a billion little glowing stars shining down on you.
It’s calming and otherworldly, like the universe is bigger than our wildest imagination.
That magic is being replicated this winter in Victor Harbor as they hold the Kondoli Lantern Parade. The parade honours Kondoli, the whale man who was a central figure in the Ngarrindjeri and Ramindjeri creation story.
The whole community, from schools and groups to performers and locals, are invited to take part in the enchanting event to help bring it to life. Taking place on Saturday, 20 June, the parade will light up the town with lanterns and music.
Beginning at Victa Cinema, it winds its way through the town centre to Warland Reserve, where the night will finish with a community celebration. The event is a signature community moment, bringing everyone together to celebrate deep Victor Harbors cultural connection to place.
Image: Victor Harbor
This year, the City of Victor Harbor is calling for expressions of interest from people and groups keen to take part. Entries could include handmade lanterns, illuminated costumes, props, music, walking floats, performance, ribbon dancing, jellyfish umbrellas, sea creatures, “school of fish” group entries, lantern creations or large-scale non-motorised walking floats.
Deputy Mayor Angela Schiller said the parade was a chance for people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds to be part of Winter Whale Fest.
“The Kondoli Lantern Parade is about community, creativity and connection,” Deputy Mayor Schiller said.
“It is a celebration people can experience in many different ways – through sound, movement, light, texture, atmosphere and shared storytelling.”
“One of the beautiful things about this parade is that participation can be as simple or as ambitious as people want it to be.
“Schools might create a school of fish, community groups might make lanterns or costumes, performers might bring music and movement, and families or individuals can join in with their own handmade creations.”
The Kondoli Lantern Parade forms part of Winter Whale Fest 2026, which will feature more than 30 events across the south coast of the Fleurieu Peninsula throughout June.
The wider festival celebrates the annual Southern Right Whale migration, alongside First Nations culture, coastal conservation, creativity, science, live music, markets and community events.
Minister for Tourism Emily Bourke said the festival was an important winter drawcard for the region.
“South Australia is rich in natural wonders, and spotting a whale off the Fleurieu Peninsula coast is one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have,” Minister Bourke said.
“The State Government is proud to support this festival which drives visitation and spending in the local community during the cooler season, while platforming the incredible depth of talent and creativity on the Fleurieu Coast.”
Schools, community groups, performers and individuals interested in taking part can register their interest now, with the full Winter Whale Fest program available online.
Kondoli Lantern Parade
When: Saturday June 20
Where: Victa Cinema to Warland Reserve Ocean Street, Victor Harbor
For more info, click here.
