ABOUT THE EVENT
What is Subi Blooms x Gather 2026?
Subi Blooms x Gather 2026 is a free, floral festival transforming Subiaco into a vibrant celebration of Mother’s Day. Featuring a curated trail of floral displays, a public art installation, family community hub and festival pop-ups, the event invites visitors to explore Subiaco in bloom.
When is Subi Blooms x Gather 2026?
The main festival runs from Friday 8 May to Mother’s Day Sunday 10 May 2026, with installations installed Friday morning and completed at 12pm. They will be on show all weekend and decommissioned Monday morning 11 May 2026.
Do I need a ticket?
No, Subi Blooms x Gather 2026 is a free event and open to all. However, there are parts of the program which are ticketed, such as the VIP Launch Event and separate events hosted by local businesses. Please check individual event listings for details.
What is the theme this year?
The 2026 theme is Floral Aurora, an artistic representation of light, as an essential life source. Expect to see floral displays inspired by light, colour, and immersive floral experiences.
PUBLIC ART INSTALLATION
What is The Light Within?
The Light Within is an immersive inflatable art installation created by artist Matthew Aberline with The Beautiful and Useful Studio. The installation consists of a series of large floral lanterns, arranged in Subiaco’s Market Square Park as part of Subi Blooms x Gather 2026.
When can I see The Light Within?
The installation is on display from 17 April to 10 May 2026 at Market Square Park, Subiaco.
What is the best time to visit The Light Within?
The bright floral patterns and colours make it a captivating visit both day and night. We encourage visitors to see it during the day and after sunset, when the floral lanterns can be seen glowing.
What time is The Light Within illuminated?
The installation is internally lit at all times, but the lights may not be visible during the daytime. To experience the installation illuminated, visit after sunset.
Can I interact with the installation?
The installation is designed to be immersive and audiences are encouraged to weave through the lanterns at their own pace, exploring each different side and posing for photos at varying angles.
GETTING THERE
Where are the floral displays located?
The floral trail begins at the Subiaco Oval Heritage Gates, continues through Rokeby Road and Hay Street, and ends at Earthwise Community Centre. Download the map here.
How long is the floral trail?
The trail spans approximately 3.4km and takes approximately 1-2 hours to walk at a relaxed pace spending time visiting each installation.
How do I get to Subi Blooms via public transport?
Subiaco is easily accessible via public transport. Subiaco Train Station is a short walk from Market Square Park and the floral trail, and several bus routes service the area. See Transperth for more information.
Where can I park in Subiaco?
There are multiple public car parks available across Subiaco. Free parking is available after 5pm and on weekends in City of Subiaco car parks. Visit the City of Subiaco website for locations and details.
ACCESSIBILITY
Is the event wheelchair and pram accessible?
Yes, the floral trail is wheelchair and pram accessible, with paved paths connecting key locations.
Is The Light Within wheelchair accessible?
The public art installation is located on grass in Market Square Park; however, it sits directly between paved footpaths connected to Roberts Road, which are wheelchair accessible.
Are there accessible parking bays available?
Yes, accessible parking bays are available throughout Subiaco. Please refer to local signage or the City of Subiaco website for locations.
Is the event suitable for children, elderly visitors, or those with reduced mobility?
Yes, the event is designed to be enjoyed by visitors of all ages and mobility levels, with accessible routes and plenty of places to rest along the trail.
EXPERIENCE & PLANNING
When is the best time to visit?
The floral trail is typically busiest between 10am and 1pm each day. For a quieter experience, consider visiting in the early morning or on Friday afternoon, when the flowers are also at their freshest.
For the first time this year, the displays will feature integrated lighting inspired by the Flora Aurora theme, thanks to support from Lotterywest and Festoon. We recommend visiting both during the day and in the evening to experience Subi Blooms in full.
What hours are the indoor displays open?
The indoor displays on the floral trail (stops 7, 8, 10, 13 and 16) are located inside local venues and subject to the business opening hours. View the opening hours here.
What is the Lotterywest Community Hub?
Supported by Lotterywest, the Community Hub is located outside the Subiaco Museum on the lawn open daily 8-10 May, from 10am – 2pm. It will host a range of family friendly activities, including face painting, roving entertainment, sensory activities and hand-on workshops. Find out more here.
Who are the florists involved this year?
A curated selection of talented florists are participating in Subi Blooms x Gather 2026. See our blog post here for the full list.
Is the event suitable for people with low sensory needs?
Yes, we recommend visiting during early mornings, as crowds are smaller and lighting effects are less intense.
Can I take photos and videos?
Yes! We encourage visitors to capture and share their experience using #SubiBlooms and tagging @SeeSubiaco. For commercial photography or media enquiries, please contact [email protected].
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, dogs are welcome in outdoor areas but must be kept on a leash at all times.
FOOD, FLOWERS & SHOPPING
Where can I purchase food and drinks?
Subiaco offers a wide range of cafés, restaurants, and takeaway options along the floral trail. Find out more.
What is Gather Village?
Gather Village is a vibrant pop-up hub located at Postal Walk, featuring an event gift shop, live music, and a selection of bar and bites by Bar Amelie. It’s open Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 3pm.
Where can I buy flowers in Subiaco?
Fresh flowers will be available for purchase at the Gather Village pop-up store located at Postal Walk. Local florists Rokeby Florist and Bloom Store will also be open for flower purchases.
WEATHER & EVENT CHANGES
What happens if it rains?
Subi Blooms will proceed in most weather conditions. We recommend checking the forecast and dressing appropriately.
If severe weather poses a safety risk, event organisers may relocate displays or postpone elements of the event. Any changes will be communicated via official channels, make sure to follow See Subiaco on Facebook and Instagram.
AFTER THE EVENT
What happens to the flowers after Subi Blooms x Gather?
Continuing a long-standing and much-loved tradition, leftover flowers from Subi Blooms x Gather 2026 will be repurposed into bouquets and hand-delivered to new and expectant mothers, as well as the dedicated staff at King Edward Memorial Hospital and St John of God Subiaco Hospital.