Festivals in Australia in December
13 festivals waiting for you
Curated by Sarah Pagel · Last verified 31 March 2026
Australia’s music landscape spans a continent of extremes, where world-class soundscapes meet some of the most dramatic natural settings on Earth. From the sub-tropical shores of Byron Bay and the turquoize waters of the Gold Coast to the red dust of the Broken Hill outback, the country hosts a massive variety of large-scale gatherings. Major hubs like Brisbane and Perth provide urban backdrops for sprawling electronic and hip hop events, while coastal regions celebrate folk and blues traditions. Iconic institutions like Bluesfest Byron Bay and WOMADelaide have established Australia as a premier destination for global touring acts, blending high-end production with the outdoor-oriented lifestyle that defines the national identity.
The Australian festival scene is defined by its seasonal versatility and genre depth. While summer brings high-energy drum and bass, house, and rock to venues like Centennial Park and the Broadwater Parklands, the cooler months shift focus to atmospheric art and metal showcases in cities like Hobart. Country music holds a significant place in the cultural fabric, with massive gatherings at Willowbank Raceway and Tamworth attracting fans from across the globe. Whether it is the heavy riffs of a punk showcase in a metropolitan stadium or the acoustic melodies of a folk festival on a heritage farm, the focus remains on high-quality curation. Events like CMC Rocks and Ultra Australia reflect a community that values both international headliners and local talent, cementing the nation's status as a cornerstone of the global circuit.
December Festivals
Good Things Brisbane 2026
Dec 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
Good Things Festival is one of Australia's largest travelling music festivals, held annually in major cities including Brisbane, featuring a diverse lineup of international and Australian acts across rock, metal, punk, and emo genres. It has become a staple alternative music event, filling the void left by the Soundwave festival, and is known for its high-energy atmosphere and significant headliners.
Bamfest 2026
Dec 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
BAMFEST is an annual music festival held in Bathurst, NSW, Australia, celebrating the talents of students, past and present, from the Bathurst Academy of Music. It is a family-friendly event featuring live entertainment on multiple stages, food vendors, and activities, run by volunteers and local music teachers.
PASIFIX 2026
Dec 5, 2026 - Dec 5, 2026
The Melbourne Pasifika Festival is an annual celebration of Pasifika Culture held on the first Saturday each December at Banjo Paterson Park in Lynbrook, VIC, Australia. The festival offers a day to enjoy Pasifika culture through traditional food stalls, arts and crafts, children's activities, and various dance and live band performances.
Meredith Music Festival 2026
Dec 11, 2026 - Dec 13, 2026
Meredith Music Festival is an annual three-day independent music event held at the Supernatural Amphitheatre in Victoria, Australia. It is widely celebrated for its diverse lineups, single-stage format, and its legendary 'No Dickhead Policy' which fosters a unique communal atmosphere.
Nariel-Creek Folk Festival 2026
Dec 27, 2026 - Jan 3, 2027
The Nariel Creek Folk Festival, held in Nariel Creek, Victoria, Australia, is the oldest continually running folk festival in Australia, focusing on traditional Australian bush music and dance, particularly the unique traditions of the Upper Murray. It is a small, loosely run, volunteer-led event that includes dances, workshops, concerts, and kids' activities, celebrating into the New Year since its inception in the 1960s.
Woodford Folk Festival 2026
Dec 27, 2026 - Jan 1, 2027
The Woodford Folk Festival is a renowned six-day cultural event held annually in Queensland, Australia, featuring a vast program of music, arts, and workshops across more than 25 stages. It brings together thousands of performers and attendees over the New Year period, culminating in a spectacular fire ceremony that celebrates community and creative expression.
Lost Paradise 2026
Dec 28, 2026 - Dec 28, 2026
Lost Paradise is an iconic New Year's Eve festival held in Glenworth Valley, Australia, blending a diverse music lineup with arts, wellness, and boutique camping. This eco-conscious celebration features world-class acts and immersive cultural experiences within a scenic hidden valley.
Beyond the Valley 2026
Dec 28, 2026 - Jan 1, 2027
Beyond The Valley is a premier Australian multi-day music and arts festival held annually over the New Year's Eve period at Barunah Plains, Victoria. It features a diverse lineup of electronic, indie, and hip-hop artists alongside immersive stage designs and boutique camping experiences.
Tanglewood Festival 2026
Dec 30, 2026 - Jan 2, 2027
Tanglewood is a family-friendly boutique music and arts festival held over New Year's Eve in Thornton, Lake Eildon, Victoria, Australia. It features a diverse range of music genres, art installations, workshops, and a focus on local talent and a community-driven, intimate atmosphere.
Luliepalooza 2026
Dec 30, 2026 - Dec 30, 2026
Luliepalooza is Melbourne's iconic rock 'n' roll block party, held annually at Victoria Park in Abbotsford, transforming it into a full-throttle, open-air celebration of music, art, food, and community. The festival, now in its fifth and biggest iteration, features two stages, over a dozen live bands spanning rock, punk, and soul, alongside skate demos, local food and beverages, and a strong emphasis on accessibility.
NYE On The Hill 2026
Dec 30, 2026 - Dec 30, 2026
NYE On The Hill is a boutique music and camping festival held in the picturesque rolling hills of South Gippsland, Victoria, Australia, known for its intimate and friendly atmosphere. The three-day event features over 30 bands, DJs, and artists, along with free camping, BYO alcohol, art installations, and morning yoga.
Great Escape Music Festival 2026
Dec 29, 2025 - Jan 1, 2026
The Great Escape Festival is a multi-day New Year's Eve camping music festival held at Redbanks, Nugent, Tasmania, featuring Australian and local bands and DJs. It is known as Tasmania's second-largest contemporary outdoor music festival, offering three stages, free camping, BYO alcohol, wellness activities like yoga, and a community-driven atmosphere.
An independent electronic music & festival researcher with 10+ years in the global dance scene.
Last verified 31 March 2026