Festival Industry Australia

The fallout from Bluesfest continues to escalate, with Bluesfest and Bluesfest Touring now facing mounting uncertainty around sideshows, refunds and industry trust

The cancellation of Bluesfest has created a ripple effect across the Australian live music industry, with the collapse of the long running Byron Bay event raising concerns about consumer confidence, ticket purchasing habits and the financial stability of future festivals.

Here is the official statement about the cancellation of Bluesfest 2026.

After more than three decades as one of Australia's most significant music gatherings, Bluesfest will not return over Easter 2026, the Byron Bay event has been cancelled due to weak ticket sales.

Lime Cordiale unveil Lime Green Festival, an ambitious off-grid music event combining live performance, community and climate action in Adelaide.

Port Fairy Folk Festival has unveiled a substantial fourth artist announcement for its 49th event, further shaping what is already one of the most expansive and culturally rich programs in the festival's recent history. Taking place across the Labour Day long weekend in March 2026, the iconic Victorian gathering continues its long tradition of blending international voices, First Nations storytelling, Australian songwriting excellence and deeply rooted community participation.

St Kilda Festival has confirmed its return for 2026 with the first five acts unveiled for what is shaping as one of the biggest editions in the event's long and storied history. Set across two days on Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 February 2026, the iconic free festival will once again transform Melbourne's bayside into a celebration of Australian music, culture and summer.