One of our favourite local festivals is making a return for 2021.
Good news for all the local musicians, one of the biggest open mic festivals is back.
Returning for its 14th year, the Aireys Open Mic Music Festival is set to take over this coastal town from Friday 12 – Sunday 14 March, with over 150 acts performing across nine different stages.
The whole idea behind the beloved festival is to give artists a chance to perform in front of an appreciative audience and to encourage a love of music. From full rock bands to solo acoustic acts – anyone can apply when registrations open on January 1 2021.
Providing a fantastic opportunity for musicians and with annual attendance at over 5000 across the three days – you know this year’s festival is going to be the best one yet… especially in a time where the industry and all its workers have endured the most difficult year of their lives.
Since the festival first began some 14 years ago, it has seen an explosion in the number of local bands popping up; especially amongst the younger generation who have grown up with this chance to see great music in their own backyard each year.
A huge range of musical tastes are catered for – and if you’re not into one act, you can move to a different stage or wait around for the next one. You’re sure to find a new favourite act to follow!
The best part is the homegrown festival adopts the ‘donate what you feel it’s worth’ approach, meaning that there is no need to pre-purchase tickets – just head on down and enjoy what local music has to offer! Whether they continue this approach is unknown at this time, but for the 14th event we’re encouraging you to support the artists (who all play for free) by snapping up some merch in the merchandise tent that sets up at Aireys Pub.
A huge highlight of the Festival each year is the coveted closing act slot reserved for a Special Mystery Guest – a much-loved annual tradition. The identity of the guest is always a closely guarded secret but with the likes of Colin Hay, Tim Rogers, Dan Sultan and Tash Sultana having dropped in for a set in past years, you can bet it’s going to be someone great.
We cant wait to see you again, Aireys.
Registrations open on January 1 2021 via the festival website.
