The Throbbing Rose Collective invites artists, performers, curators, writers and community groups to apply for Nuit Rose 2026 Rewilding. The festival will take place in Toronto from June 18 to June 21, with the main night of programming on Saturday June 20. Since its launch during WorldPride 2014, Nuit Rose has become a significant platform for creative experimentation and for showcasing the full range of queer artistic expression.

The theme for 2026 is Rewilding. We invite proposals that explore renewal, transformation, queer presence in public space and new forms of connection within the urban environment. Rewilding is an opportunity to imagine what happens when queer creativity returns to the centre of the city with vitality, invention and joy. Artists may consider themes such as renewal of community, ecological imagination, queer futurity, healing practices, urban play and the reimagining of familiar spaces.

Submissions in all artistic disciplines are welcome. This includes performance, installation, sculpture, video, photography, sound, painting, textiles, digital art and participatory or site responsive work. Both indoor and outdoor projects will be considered. We encourage applications from artists at all stages of their careers, including those whose identities, perspectives or communities are underrepresented in the cultural sector.

A jury of artists and curators will select projects according to several criteria. These include clarity and originality of the proposal, artistic strength, feasibility within the festival setting, thoughtful engagement with the theme and the potential to contribute to a strong and diverse festival experience. Nuit Rose offers several levels of participation. Featured Projects receive artist fees based on CARFAC standards along with priority placement and promotional support. Contributing Projects receive venue space and full festival visibility. Partner Projects are independently produced but included in the overall festival program.

Applications must be submitted through the online form by Thursday January 15, 2026 at 11:59 p m Eastern Time. Each application must include a project description of up to 500 words, up to five images or video links, a biography or curriculum vitae of up to three pages and a clear outline of technical and spatial requirements. Incomplete submissions cannot be considered. Applicants will be notified of results by April 1, 2026.

Nuit Rose 2026 Rewilding invites artists to imagine the city as a place of renewal and possibility. The festival celebrates queer creativity, collective imagination and the vibrant spirit of community that has defined Nuit Rose from its beginning. We look forward to receiving proposals that bring fresh ideas to the streets, venues and gathering spaces of the Village and the surrounding area.

For questions or assistance, contact us at [email protected].