Australia’s beloved Byron Bay Bluesfest is back for its 37th edition, set to take place from April 2–5, 2026, at the picturesque Byron Events Farm. After last year’s record-breaking attendance and emotional farewell announcements, the festival has risen again, delivering a lineup that honors its rich legacy while embracing new sounds and generations.
The first wave of artists announced features some of the most iconic names in music history. Leading the charge are Split Enz, reuniting for their first Australian performance in over 20 years as part of their 50th anniversary tour. Original members Tim Finn, Neil Finn, Noel Crombie, and Eddie Rayner will be joined by Matt Eccles on drums and James Milne on bass, promising a nostalgic yet vibrant set filled with hits like I Got You and Six Months in a Leaky Boat.
Joining them are Earth, Wind & Fire, returning to Bluesfest for the first time since 2012. With timeless anthems like September and Boogie Wonderland, the Rock & Roll Hall of Famers remain one of the most celebrated bands of all time. Their uplifting grooves and electrifying energy are sure to light up the stage.
California punk trailblazers Sublime make their long-awaited Bluesfest debut, bringing their genre-defying blend of ska, reggae, and punk. Backed by founding members Eric Wilson and Bud Gaugh, alongside Jakob Nowell (son of late frontman Bradley Nowell), they’ll perform classics like Santeria and What I Got, alongside their recent hit Ensenada.
Southern rock titans The Black Crowes return to Bluesfest for the first time since 2008, armed with swaggering riffs and soulful vocals. Meanwhile, blues legend Buddy Guy, now 90 years old, graces the stage once more, solidifying his status as one of the greatest living guitarists.
Other highlights include Counting Crows, delivering poetic lyricism and alt-rock anthems; The Pogues, celebrating the 40th anniversary of Rum, Sodomy & the Lash; and Marcus King Band, showcasing fiery southern rock and soul.
Local Legends and Rising Stars
Bluesfest continues its tradition of championing Australian talent. National treasures like The Living End, Xavier Rudd, and Mental As Anything bring their unique styles to the lineup, while emerging acts such as The Dreggs, South Summit, and Taj Farrant add fresh energy. Notable international debuts include Nik West, funk prodigy and former bassist for Prince, and Angelique Francis, whose powerful voice is redefining modern blues.
Festival Upgrades
In response to feedback from previous editions, Bluesfest 2026 introduces several upgrades. The main stage boasts a larger footprint, new seating zones, and undercover areas for campers and deck chairs. Improved drainage systems, expanded parking, and additional bus loops ensure smoother logistics. These enhancements aim to create a seamless and comfortable experience for the tens of thousands expected to attend.
Sideshows Across Australia
Beyond Byron Bay, fans can catch exclusive sideshows featuring Sublime, The Black Crowes, Buddy Guy, and others in major cities like Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and Adelaide. These performances extend the festival spirit nationwide, offering fans multiple opportunities to see their favorite acts.
Tickets and Accommodation
Tickets are already on sale via Moshtix, with options ranging from single-day passes to four-day packages. Camping accommodations—including glamping, tipis, and pre-pitched tents—are selling fast, so early booking is recommended.
A Celebration of Music and Community
With over 180 million albums sold collectively among the announced artists, Bluesfest 2026 stands as a testament to the enduring power of live music. Whether you’re belting out classics or discovering new favorites, this year’s festival promises to be a journey through sound, culture, and connection.
Full Lineup Announced So Far (Alphabetical Order):
Áine Tyrrell
Angelique Francis
Backsliders
Ben Catley
Buddy Guy
Chain
Counting Crows
Daniel Champagne
Earth, Wind & Fire
Jovin Webb
Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band
Laid Back Country Picker
Mark Seymour
Marcus King Band
Mental As Anything
Nik West
Pierce Brothers
Ray Beadle
Robert Randolph
Roshani
Skegss
South Summit
Split Enz
Steve Poltz
Sublime
Taj Farrant
The Black Crowes
The Dreggs
The Living End
The Pogues
The Southern River Band
Xavier Rudd
Z-Star
Byron Bay Bluesfest 2026 promises an extraordinary celebration of music with headliners like Split Enz, Earth, Wind & Fire, Sublime, and The Black Crowes, alongside festival upgrades for an enhanced experience.