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Is Your Venue Ready to Fringe? 5 Things You Need to Know
Mon, Aug 18 2025
Thinking about transforming your space into an Adelaide Fringe venue but aren't sure where to start? We get it. From scheduling to budgets, running a venue is a lot of work. The good news is, becoming a part of Adelaide Fringe can open new doors for your business, but it's important to know what you're signing up for.
Whether you're a café, bar, gallery, bookshop, theatre, or a pop-up space, here’s a quick guide to help you decide if becoming a Fringe venue is the right move for you.
1. It’s a Festival for Everyone (Literally)
Adelaide Fringe is an open access festival. That means anyone can take part, we don’t choose you, you choose us! You register your space to host performances, exhibitions, installations, or events, and artists approach you directly. This gives you full creative freedom, but also full responsibility.
2. Boost Your Business and Build Your Community
Venues tell us they join the Fringe to do more than just make a profit. It's about attracting new audiences, turning quiet periods into vibrant cultural hubs, and connecting with your community.
Want to meet the community? Come join us on 2 September at Meet the Communities. RSVP here.
3. Your Responsibilities are Key to Your Success
If you register as a Fringe venue, you’ll be in charge of running your space during the festival, which includes:
- Programming your venue (approaching artists or fielding interest)
- Negotiating and signing agreements with artists
- Budgeting for operating costs
- Ensuring your space meets safety and accessibility standards
- Listing your venue and shows through Fringe's registration system
- Supporting artists with basic venue logistics (e.g. bump in/out times, tech specs)
4. Is Fringe Right for You
Before registering, consider these key questions:
- Do I have the capacity to operate my space as a venue for four weeks?
- Do I understand the risks and responsibilities of participating in an open-access festival?
- Do I have a clear vision for my venue’s Fringe program?
- Can I create a welcoming space for both artists and audiences?
5. Tools & Support Available from Adelaide Fringe
You're not alone, our team is here to help, with tools and guidance to support you every step of the way.
- Access to AVR (Artist & Venue Registration) resources
- Read the 2026 Venue Magazine
- Contact the Artists & Venues team for a one-on-one chat and personalised support by emailing venues@adelaidefringe.com.au or calling +61 8 8100 2022
Ready to register your venue? Log in or create an account on our Artist & Venue Registration (AVR) platform.
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