Get ready for the ultimate musical road trip as the Stars & Bars Festival rides again this April
This beloved, countrified music festival brings together the best of local talent, stunning landscapes, and exceptional food and drink, blending it all into a one-of-a-kind adventure.
Stars & Bars Festival
- When: 25-26 April
- Where: Heathcote
Now in its fourth edition, Stars & Bars is a magical mystery music tour with a twist. A mix between a bus tour, winery exploration, and a rollicking live music event, the festival offers something new each year.
This time, the Heathcote Express rolls out again for a thrilling tour of the region’s most iconic locales.
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Prepare to discover Central Victoria’s heartland with an impressive lineup featuring:
- The Drunken Poachers
- Bob Log III
- Mightiest of Guns
- Karl S. Williams & Sally Wiggins
- Ezra Lee & His Boogie Woogie Band
- and MORE!
Special guest DJ Chunky Love will keep the vibe alive with some funky beats.
Start the weekend on a high note at The Union Hotel in Heathcote on Friday 25 April for a family-style dinner and show.
Enjoy live performances by Ezra Lee & His Boogie Woogie Band, Paper Jane, and DJ Chunky Love from 7:00 pm, setting the tone for the festival ahead.
The adventure continues on Saturday, with the Heathcote Express departing at 10:30 am for a magical mystery musical bus tour. The day includes a midday matinee at the Axedale Tavern, wine tasting at Tellurian Wines, and a relaxing afternoon at Shiraz Republic and Cornella Brewery, where you’ll enjoy some sublime craft beers, afternoon tea, and acoustic tunes as you soak in the golden-hour views.
The festival culminates with a high-energy evening at Palling Bros Brewery, featuring The Drunken Poachers, Bob Log III, and Mightiest of Guns from 6pm.
From alt-country and Americana to rockabilly, blues, and more, the festival’s diverse lineup promises to keep you on your toes all weekend.
Explore Heathcote as you Roadtrip the highways, byways and everything in between, to and from your favourite annual Central Victorian Stay-Cation Destination. Slow down the pace and immerse yourself in the charm of Heathcote. Attend the local Anzac Day Dawn Service, a spot of morning tea at the Heathcote RSL, a bit of Two Up, and take some timeout to explore the towns historic main street, renowned wineries, and artisanal producers before the tour begins.Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Stars & Bars offers the perfect opportunity to unwind and enjoy all that Heathcote has to offer.
Don’t miss out on this essential road trip destination in Central Victoria—just over an hour from Melbourne, and 45 minutes from Bendigo.
Mark your calendars, grab your mates, and get ready to hit the road for a musical journey like no other!