Here is an exciting way to explore a different side of Australia – plan a trip to attend music festivals in Australia and soak in the bustling vibes
As divvy as it may sound — that is what Australia’s music festivals are about; you see, they’re more than just events.
Music Festivals in Oz are a celebration of life and love through the culture & community.
With sun-drenched beaches in Byron Bay to the bustling streets of Sydney, Australia thrives with pockets of diverse landscapes perfectly placed for unforgettable music experiences.
Music Festivals: A Different View of Australia- One way to get a taste of Australian culture is by experiencing one the country’s many music festivals.
Importance of The Music Festivals in Australian Culture
Australia music festivals are not just about the music, they have developed into a cultural phenomenon that has meant thousands of people descending upon Australia together.
The various genres represented, from Electronic Dance Music to Indie Rock, offer something for everyone.
More than the music, these festivals are usually paired with local artwork, food, and sometimes wellness activities—a complete round-the-clock package that is quintessentially Australian.
The pod vape is a fun to have for many festival attendees. Small and neat, this is the ideal piece for someone who likes a quick toot between sets without lugging big equipment around.
It’s always good to take the time to just enjoy, and that is exactly what you will get with Australia’s somewhat relaxed festival set up.
Best Music Festivals to Attend in Australia
Every year, Australia becomes home to music lovers from all over the globe who come here not only for an unparalleled musical experience that we are known for but also because of our laid-back vibe. Below is a preview of some of the best film festivals that make it worth visiting and should already have your attention:
1. Splendour in the Grass, Byron Bay (NSW)
Australia’s iconic music festival, Splendour in the Grass, is set amongst the picturesque surrounds of Byron Bay.
Packed with a variety of established and emerging musicians from across the world, this festival is like an annual dose for music fanatics.
This relaxed vibe of Byron Bay, alongside the big performances that it’s world-famous for, makes it a very different experience than Splendour.
Why You Should Go: If you’re not a fan of the harrassing city life, this festival has that more laid-back atmosphere for only people whom they love and no one else. And the beaches close by, well they are perfect post-dance relaxation
2. Falls Festival (Various Locations)
Falls is iconic as a New Year’s Eve party that spans multiple locations: Lorne (VIC), Marion Bay (TAS) and Byron Bay (NSW). The festival features music, comedy and arts to cater for everyone who goes raving mad (and more) at a weekend of tunes.
Must-Do: Each venue is different -whether you’re after coastal vibes or in the market for a bushland escape! The ideal Australian New Year right there.
3. Sydney City Limits (Sydney, NSW)
Taking obvious cues from the landmark Austin City Limits festival in the USA, Sydney City brings some of that ACL vibe down under.
Taking place in Sydney’s Centennial Park, the festival offers a great variety of genres; previous lineups have seen everything from indie rock to hip-hop featuring on multiple stages.
Why You Should Go: For anyone wanting to combine the festival experience with some time in a city, Sydney City Limits is ideal. But wait, it wouldn’t be SYD without some solid nosh and plenty of gourmet eateries to keep you perked up for the day.
4. Laneway Festival (Various Locations)
Since kicking off as a small little laneway festival in Melbourne, Laneway now has become one of the most prominent international music events for Australia and New Zealand.
A music festival known primarily for providing a platform to the freshest, most unique talent in current popular and underground culture — which is like Mecca if you’re all about discovering your new favorite band.
Why Should You Go: Laneway is all about discovery. This festival is definitely for you if discovering new music and enjoying a show in an intimate setting are completely your kind.
Preparing for Your Festival Adventure
To plan a trip around an Australian music festival, there are a few logistics you need to take into account. 10 tips to make the most of your university experience
Pack Smart
Australian Summer is usually hot for festival goers, making it necessary to follow a proper packing list.
Light breathable clothes are a must so will ensure no harm by the UV rays that give you sun tanned skin, do not leave behind your sunscreen.
And do not forget a hat and sunglasses are very necessary! If you can, make sure to bring a charged smartphone in case of an emergency and maybe 4-5 extra pods if this is your first festival experience.
Individual festivals may have restrictions, so it can never hurt to do some advance planning.
Stay Hydrated
And while you are enjoying the outdoors all day long, Hydration is a must.
Also, at many festivals there are free water stations (like so many) therefore it is good to take with you a bottled reusable pot to drop during the day.
Also, it is recommended to reduce the amount of alcohol consumed because drinking can increase dehydration.
Plan Your Day
Prepare in advance by looking at the lineup and which stages you may want to go to. Remember to sneak in time on the festival grounds and catch some new acts.
The Impact of Music Festivals on Tourism
In Australia, music festivals are one of the most important motivations for people to take a trip.
These events, in many cases part of the country´s sporting DNA and delighting long standing legions of supporters, attract thousands upon thousands or even millions (in certain parts) lining up to cheer their idols.
If you are travelling, one way to experience the real Australia — something that is more than just sight-seeing or visiting tourist hot-spots throughout capital cities and regional towns of our vast island — is by attending an Australian music festival.
The experience of community and welcoming energy at the festival means that you can meet new people easily as everyone is generally in great spirits, enjoying live performances all day long together.
From bonding over your favorite band to sharing a drink during the much-needed break, friendships made at festivals can be for life.
Check different types of city activities while planning your itinerary.
Which music festival you are planning to attend this year? Do you know any other music fests in Australia that are worth a trip? Do let me know in the comments.
Award-winning Analyst, multi-nominated digital content creator and photographer Lavina Dsouza's words capture stories about culture and tradition mainly through its food and people. She has written and contributed to publications such as The Washington Post, Lonely Planet and Matador Network, to name a few. She is the editor of UntraditionalHumans.com, a non-profit created to share inspiring stories from women of colour who break free from traditions and choose happiness.
She's also a speaker passionate about DEI and champions solo travel. She has collaborated with numerous renowned brands such as Intrepid Travel, TripAdvisor, Travel and Leisure and Adobe, to name a few.
She can be found on Twitter and Instagram.
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