Australia has a unique and vibrant music scene, so it’s no surprise that there are amazing festivals held all around the year. With everything from R’n’B to rock and country, there’s truly something for everyone.
To help you discover some of the awesome events coming up this year, we’ve put together this handy guide to the best Australian music festivals in 2025.
Our top tips for music festivals
Prepare for the weather
Depending on the time of year, you might be in for extreme heat, cold, rain or more. Make sure you check out the forecast before you go so you know what to expect!
Plan your transport
It’s a good idea to plan your transport to and from your destination early. If you’re not sure, event websites usually have good information about parking and transport options.
Pack carefully
While you don’t want to bring too much with you, it’s important to make sure you have the essentials. Water, snacks and a portable phone charger are always a good idea. For multi-day events, you’ll need clothes and toiletries, and perhaps a tent and bedding too.
Stay hydrated
Singing and dancing along to your fave band is great fun, but it can lead to dehydration. Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water, especially if you’re out in the sun and heat. Remember: thirst is the first sign of dehydration, so don’t ignore it!
Organise a meeting point
Heading to a festival with friends? Crowded fields and dance floors can make it easy to get separated, so designate a meeting point as soon as you arrive.
Watch the heat
Australia gets pretty hot, even when it’s not the middle of summer, and heat-related illnesses can be serious. Make sure you take regular breaks and seek cooler areas where you can to avoid overheating.
Find help if you need it
Festival staff are there to help you have a good time. If you’re feeling ill or unwell, are worried about your safety, have lost your friends or belongings or just need a bit of time out, reach out to a staff member or locate the medical tent for support.
Be eco-conscious
Sadly, many people abandon huge amounts of trash after festivals. You can reduce your footprint and be a friend to the environment by choosing low-waste options and taking your rubbish with you when you leave.
Check out an afterparty
Many festivals have official afterparties. Keep an eye on the event’s website and social channels to hear of any coming up, and make sure you get along to keep the good times rolling.
Have fun!
Of course, the most important thing is to have a good time. This looks different for different people: some prefer to hit every event and pack their schedules, while others prefer to take it easy. No matter which works for you, make sure you put fun first!
Are there student discounts at Australian music festivals?
If you’re a savvy student, you’ll know that student discounts are a great way to save cash without sacrificing fun!
Most music festivals in Australia don’t offer student discounts. But don’t forget — even if you can’t save on tickets, you could also look for other ways to save by using your discounts for public transport, festival gear and supplies!
2025’s best Australian music festivals
WOMADelaide
March – Adelaide
WOMADelaide (a.k.a. WOMAD) is an open-air festival celebrating the World Of Music, Arts & Dance held in Adelaide’s beautiful Botanic Park. Over four days, this colourful, laid-back festival is packed with performances, incredible international food stalls and interactive art pieces.
Laneway
February – Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth
This one-day festival is one of the most beloved events on Australia’s calendar. This year, you can catch Charli XCX, Djo, Remi Wolf and more. Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney shows are already sold out, but you can still nab tickets for Perth and Adelaide!
BIGSOUND
September – Brisbane
The three-day festival BIGSOUND is back for 2025 with a huge and growing lineup of local, national and international acts! Not only is this a music festival, it’s also a gathering for the industry, meaning you can get along to incredible events, speeches and some of the coolest after-parties!
Tamworth Country Music Festival
January – Tamworth
January means just one thing to country fans: Tamworth Country Music Festival. This year boasts a massive lineup of fun and events, including performances by Aussie superstars Troy Cassar-Daley, Lee Kernaghan OAM and John Williamson.
Souled Out
February – Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane
If you love smooth beats and R’n’B, don’t miss Souled Out. This year’s headliners include Don Toliver, Jhené Aiko and Vince Staples, supported by a huge range of other incredible artists across this one-day festival.
Bluesfest
April – Byron Bay
Sadly, 2025 marks the long-running fave Bluesfest’s final year. Featuring huge names like Crowded House, Hilltop Hoods, Missy Higgins, Vance Joy and many more, this multi-day farewell event is not to be missed.
Party in the Paddock
February – Launceston
Independent, vibrant and full of life: Party in the Paddock truly captures the spirit of Tassie. Held over four massive days, this year’s festival includes something for everyone, with acts like The Kooks, Empire of the Sun, Amyl and the Sniffers and Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers.
BASSINTHEGRASS
May – Darwin
Held in Darwin’s stunning Mindil Beach, BASSINTHEGRASS is an action-packed one-day festival. 2025’s lineup is yet to be announced, but with past acts like King Stingray, Macklemore and Jungle Giants, 2025 is sure to be a winner.
