by Jessica Boyle
Live music in Australia has hit a few sour notes lately. With several major festivals cancelled and digital streaming becoming the norm, Bluesfest is singing a different tune. Byron Bay’s iconic four-day festival just recorded the highest attendance of any Australian music event since before COVID, pulling in over 109,000 music lovers. So much for those rumours about 2025 being the last dance—Bluesfest will be back in 2026, and stronger than ever.
If you’re in need of a study break next Easter, look no further than Byron Bay Bluesfest.
Worried about the cost? There are ways in.
Students can score early-bird discounts, or better yet, sign up as a volunteer for free entry. If you’ve got talent to share, the festival’s Buskers Competition could even land you a slot on a main stage. This year, 14-year-old Torin Peat won the grommet category with his original track “Horseback Blues”. Fun fact: superstar, Tones and I, reminisced about placing sixth in the same contest, illustrating how major careers can be launched from humble beginnings.
Bluesfest isn’t just for blues fans. Despite the name, it’s a genre-spanning celebration of rock, hip hop, soul, folk, country, indie, and more. This year’s headliners included Crowded House (yes, it was packed), Tones and I, Hilltop Hoods, and Rodrigo y Gabriela—but the talent didn’t stop there.
Some unforgettable sets included:
Here Come the Mummies – Costumed in full mummy regalia to keep their anonymity, this mysterious ensemble had the audience dancing with cheeky lyrics.
Missy Higgins – Her emotionally raw performance brought the feels (and a few tears).
John Butler – Mixed powerful music with messages of peace and environmentalism.
The California Honeydrops – Delivered a horn-blasting, feel-good set with surprise flute solos that had raised the roof.
Bluesfest is proudly multi-generational. Whether it’s toddlers in noise-cancelling headphones or grandparents in camping chairs, everyone’s welcome. That inclusive, all-ages vibe is a big part of what makes it so special.
So, what are you waiting for?
Tickets are already on sale for Easter 2026. Whether you’re going to dance, discover new artists, or just soak up the vibes, Bluesfest is more than a music festival—it’s a celebration of community, creativity, and the unbeatable power of live performance.
