Bluesfest Byron Bay Confirms Return in 2026

Bluesfest, the iconic Byron Bay music festival, has confirmed it will return in 2026, reversing earlier statements that 2025 would be its final year. Festival director Peter Noble admitted that the initial announcement of ending the event was partly a strategy to draw attention to the festival's need for government support, highlighting Bluesfest's significant economic and cultural contributions. The 2025 edition saw record attendance, with over 109,000 attendees and acclaim for its major acts, reinforcing community enthusiasm for the festival's continuation. The announcement of Bluesfest 2026 coincided with the Australian Greens unveiling a $20 million annual rescue plan for festivals, aiming to secure the future of Australia's live music scene. Bluesfest is also among New South Wales events receiving new state support through the Contemporary Music Festival Viability Fund. Early bird tickets for the 2026 event, set for April 2–5, are already on sale, reflecting strong anticipation for what organizers promise will be the festival’s biggest edition yet.