Is there a better way to spend a balmy summer evening than by heading to a night festival? With bustling crowds, great street food, urban culture, local designers and musicians, night festivals create a real unique, spirited and lively atmosphere.
With the Torquay series of the NightJar Independent Artists Festival now wrapping up, NightJar will be spending every Friday night of February in Geelong. Since starting in 2010, this designer/artisan festival brings together emerging designers, local producers, fair-trade importers and contemporary artists from all over Australia.
Here’s a look at some of the highlights.
The Music
The collection of artists at NightJar are a major drawcard of the festival. The first Friday night (February 3rd) will see the likes of Riley Pearce, Frida, Lady Oscar and The Peek. Melbourne outfit Lady Oscar will be a highlight with their blended sounds of soul, jazz and hip hop as they perform their diverse material, ranging from Motown love songs to dance floor jams. They are refreshing, honest and intimate, and promise audiences a good time, with dancing well in to the night.
The February 10th line-up includes Passerine, The Teskey Brothers and the Skeleton Club. Adelaide acoustic five piece The Skeleton Club will be sharing their blue/folk sounds with the crowds of Geelong. Releasing their debut EP Rattle and Smoke in 2015, the guys created seriously original live music with their mixture of harmonies, driving guitars and soulful live performances.
The third Friday edition on the 17th has Younis Clare, Sweet Felicia & the Tradies, Pugsley, and Hat Fitz & Cara Robinson. For something a bit different, international bluesman Pugsley Buzzard will be bringing his big voice, chunky piano and intriguing songs to the festival. Performing from New Orleans to Berlin, this engaging performer won’t fail to deliver a show that will have everyone laughing their way to the dance floor.
The very last night in Geelong (24th) will see Revolution, Gymnastics in the Seventies, and Mojo Juju. Melbourne musician and storyteller Mojo Juju will be one to look out for. With a debut solo release in 2012 and her second debut album in 2015, it is clear Mojo Juju’s unique songwriting is raw, emotional and honest, combined with wit and her powerful voice. As one not defined by a specific genre, you’ll have to see the live performance to fully appreciate this dynamic artist.
The Stalls
There will be a range of creative stalls at the festival to find some bargains. From organic produce, to arts and crafts there will be plenty to browse through as the sun goes down. Here’s a few to stop by along your travels.
Jeff Shreds Clothing: What began as a coping mechanism for anxiety, the designs at Jeff Shreds Clothing are reflective of the positive and inspiring board riding culture of the Surf Coast. Based in Torquay, these quality threads aren’t just for those who shred. Look out for the stripe tees to get you through the rest of summer.
A Skulk of Foxes: Created by Australian designer Natalie Cirillo, A Skulk of Foxes is a unique jewellery label, featuring stunning sterling silver pieces. Now running for 10 years, Natalie is still proudly hand making and finishing all pieces in the Geelong studio.
RT Furniture Design: If you are looking for something to brighten up your home, stop by RT Furniture Design. With artistic aesthetic and quality design, you will find sustainable coffee tables, chairs and side-tables on display.
With the promise of excellent gift ideas for any upcoming birthdays, you’ll find stalls also selling candles, sweets and treats, delicious salami, gourmet chilli products, skincare products, Henna art, along with printed photography.
The Food
We can’t forget the food, and with the variety of foods on offer, you’ll have to come back each week to enjoy it all. Here are some to definitely taste.
The Smoothie Tank: If you’re on the hunt for a healthy feed, this Smoothie Bowl stall should be in your sights. Ran by a sister duo, the girls offer a healthy organic food option that caters for vegans and foodies. All meals are blitzed on site and are topped with fresh fruit, assorted super foods and house-made Granola, giving an fresh twist to your summer night festival experience. Yum!
Perla Tacos: Who doesn’t love a taco?! Perla Tacos create soft corn tacos that are super tasty and healthy, using whole foods, locally sourced ingredients and healthy cooking methods. Best of all, they even have vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options, catering to absolutely everybody.
The Forge Pizzeria: Hailing from Ballarat, this family run pizzeria are here to bring you the very best slices. Serving up their favourite wood fired pizzas, there will also be some dessert pizza on offer for the sweet tooths. Expect some seriously delicious bases and local, tasty toppings.
Other food stalls to help make you indecisive for dinner include the Cassava Chip Man, Shiva Indian Cuisine, Pizza De Wheels, Twistto, Twisted Mac and Urban Street Food (Giant Springs), plus heaps more.
If your looking for a sugary treat, you’ll find solace in KD Catering with their Dutch poffertjes, Phil’s Original Steel Drum Popcorn, Timboon Fine Ice Cream and Nordenfine Ice Cream Company.
There will also be a range of wine and boutique beer to enjoy.
Please note due to alcohol restrictions, this year children under 18 will need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Embrace the warm weather and the longer nights to explore the twilight atmosphere of the NightJar festival.
When & Where: Johnstone Park, Geelong – February 3, 10, 17 & 24 (4pm -10pm).
Head to nightjarfestival.com.au for a full look at what’s on offer or more information.