Festival season is finally here and if you’re anything like me you’ll want to make sure you fit in as much dancing to music in the sunshine as you can, which is why we’ve made a handy little list of all the festivals that should be on your summer to do list.
Beyond The Valley, Lardner Park – December 28 2017 – January 1 2018
If you want to celebrate the new year with the likes of Schoolboy Q, The Presets, Matt Corby, Stormzy, Pnau and many other huge names (who wouldn’t?) then this is the festival for you. Although it’s only still a relatively young festival, it’s quickly become a summer festival staple. This one kicks off today though, so you might be able to grab a ticket on the gate!
New Year’s Evie, Tallarook – December 31 2017 – January 2 2018
New Year’s Evie is for those who want a more chilled and relaxed approach to celebrating the new year. This is the perfect festival if you want to escape the usual chaotic hustle and bustle of New Year’s eve. The music is nothing less than spectacular though with acts such as Rolling Blackouts Coastal Fever, Jade Imagine, The Senegambian Jazz Band and more. Plus, there’s going to be a giant water slide. Need I say more?
UNIFY, Gippsland – January 13 – 15
After two massively successful years, UNIFY is back with its biggest lineup yet over two huge nights. Headlining this year’s Heavy Music Gathering are Alexisonfire, Violent Soho and Northlane. This one is sold out though, so if you weren’t lucky enough to get your hands on a ticket, UNIFY Gathering have an exclusive ticket resale partnership with Twickets Australia. So, be sure to keep your eyes peeled on this resale platform.
So Frenchy So Chic, Werribee – January 14
Bonjour! This is your chance to live out your secret (or not so secret) fantasy of living in France for a day. Get out your French inspired summer frocks and picnic rug and spend the day basking in the sun, sipping on wine and dining on glorious French food, as well as listening to some of France’s best music acts.
Grampians Music Festival, Halls Gap – February 2 – 4
Setting up in one of Australia’s most picturesque national parks next February, the three-day Grampians Music Festival is one to mark on the calendar with acts like Tired Lion, Ruby Fields, Polish Club and Didirri. A sunny weekend away with mates and music. A showcase of the best new bands making music all over the country. Local produce, beer and wine. Big mountains, huge sounds and a beautiful, chilled-out vibe. What’s not to love?
Bruthen Blues and Art Festival – February 16 – 18
One of Australia’s biggest blues festival, this event will leave you with a whole new appreciation for blues music. The whole town really gets into the event to make it one of a kind with garage sales, street music and stalls.
Babylon, Carapooee West – February 23 – 25
Babylon festival has been described as an electronic music mecca. With everything from techno to deep house and psy trance acts, you’ll be sure to find something to dance to. Babylon likes to appreciate art in all its forms, which is why it will also be offering a diverse program of wellness and mindfulness workshops and art installations.
Pitch Music Festival, Mafeking – March 9 – 12
Set to be just as spectacular as its first year, if not more. Pitch Music Festival is more than just a music festival, it’s four magnificent days of contemporary electronic music intertwined with visual art and picturesque landscapes. The line up consists of many stunning international artists such as The black Madonna, Len Faki and Booka Shade, as well as an array of local artists such as Alta, cc:disco! and many many more.
Port Fairy Folk Festival – March 9 – 12
A family friendly, all-inclusive festival, is always a spectacular event that transforms the small town of Port Fairy into a folk music hub for four days. Celebrating it’s 42nd anniversary next year, the festival has festival business down pat. With over 100 acts performing across the four days, there is always something for everyone.
Golden Plains, Meredith – March 10- 12
The beloved Golden Plains is back for another year. 2018 is already looking like it’s going to be a magical year for Golden Plains with acts legendary acts like Outkast’s Big Boi, The Avalanches, Mogwai, The Preatures and Grizzly bear, there is quite literally something for everyone. The espresso martini’s at Eric’s bar always go down a treat but if they aren’t your thing, don’t worry, as always it is BYO.
The Hills Are Alive, South Gippsland – March 23 – 25
The Hills Are Alive are celebrating their 10 year anniversary at next year’s festival. You are not going to want to miss out on this! As well as showcasing some of the greatest up and coming acts, next year they are inviting back some of the highlight acts from past years. The Hills have mixed in some comedy acts with their music acts, to keep things interesting.
Download Festival, Flemington Racecourse – March 24
One of the biggest rock festivals in the world is finally here — and it’s got the likes of Korn, Limp Bizkit and Prophets Of Rage. Download will also feature sets from Mastodon, Good Charlotte, Suicidial Tendencies, Gojira and more, including Aussie acts like Northlane, Ocean Grove, Trophy Eyes and King Parrot.
Inner Varnika, Location TBA – March 30 – April 1
A three day escape from the world. Inner Varnika is for all those music enthusiasts and artists out there to come together and just dance and let go of any stress. This is the place to bring out your inner weirdo in a judgement free zone.
Written by Jasmine Turner