Discover the Best Music Festivals in Sydney

There’s no denying that Sydney is home to some of the most vibrant and lively music festivals in the world. From Bluesfest to Splendour in the Grass, the city hosts a diverse range of music festivals that cater to all genres and tastes. But with so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to figure out which festival to attend. That’s where we come in – we’ve compiled a list of the best music festivals Sydney has to offer. So, without further ado, let’s dive in and explore the top music festivals that are not to be missed in Sydney!

The Best Music Festivals in Sydney

🎵 Bluesfest

🎵 Splendour in the Grass

🎵 Laneway Festival

🎵 Listen Out

🎵 Sydney City Limits

🎵 Field Day

🎵 Lost Paradise

🎵 FOMO

🎵 Mountain Sounds

🎵 Electric Gardens

🎵 Under the Southern Stars

🎵 So Far Sounds

🎵 Secret Garden Festival

Bluesfest

Bluesfest is a five-day music festival that takes place annually in Byron Bay, New South Wales, around Easter. It’s one of the most iconic and popular music festivals in Australia, attracting a diverse range of artists and music genres. From blues and roots to rock and roll, Bluesfest has it all. Previous headliners include Bob Dylan, Patti Smith, and Kendrick Lamar. So, if you’re a fan of blues and roots music, this festival is not to be missed.

Splendour in the Grass

Splendour in the Grass is Australia’s largest winter music festival, held annually in Byron Bay. The festival features a lineup of national and international artists and spans over three days. With multiple stages, food stalls, and markets, there’s plenty to keep you entertained throughout the festival. Previous headliners include Arctic Monkeys, Lorde, and Florence + The Machine. If you’re a fan of indie and alternative music, Splendour in the Grass is the festival for you.

Laneway Festival

Laneway Festival is an annual music festival that takes place in February and travels across major Australian cities, including Sydney. The festival features a diverse range of genres, from indie to electronic, and is known for its unique atmosphere and intimate setting. With multiple stages and food vendors, Laneway Festival offers a one-of-a-kind experience for music lovers. Previous headliners include Tame Impala, Flume, and The 1975.

Listen Out

Listen Out is a one-day music festival that takes place in Sydney’s Centennial Park in September. The festival features a lineup of electronic and hip-hop artists and offers a unique experience for music lovers. With multiple stages and installations, Listen Out is the perfect festival to dance the night away. Previous headliners include Anderson .Paak, A$AP Rocky, and Flume.

Sydney City Limits

Sydney City Limits is a one-day music festival that takes place in February at Centennial Park. The festival features a diverse range of genres, from rock to hip-hop, and offers an immersive experience for music lovers. With multiple stages, food vendors, and installations, Sydney City Limits is a festival not to be missed. Previous headliners include Beck, Justice, and Phoenix.

Field Day

Field Day is an annual music festival that takes place on New Year’s Day at The Domain in Sydney. The festival features a lineup of electronic and hip-hop artists and is known for its energetic and lively atmosphere. With multiple stages and food vendors, Field Day offers the perfect start to the new year for music lovers. Previous headliners include Disclosure, Flume, and Diplo.

Lost Paradise

Lost Paradise is a four-day music festival that takes place in December in the Glenworth Valley, New South Wales. The festival features a lineup of electronic and indie artists and offers a unique experience for music lovers. With multiple stages, yoga classes, and food vendors, Lost Paradise is the perfect festival to escape the city and immerse yourself in nature. Previous headliners include Rüfüs Du Sol, Matt Corby, and Meg Mac.

FOMO

FOMO is a one-day music festival that takes place in January at Parramatta Park, Sydney. The festival features a lineup of electronic and hip-hop artists and offers a unique experience for music lovers. With multiple stages and food vendors, FOMO is the perfect festival to dance the day away. Previous headliners include Nicki Minaj, Rae Sremmurd, and Post Malone.

Mountain Sounds

Mountain Sounds is a two-day music festival that takes place in February in the Mount Penang Parklands, New South Wales. The festival features a lineup of indie and electronic artists and offers a unique experience for music lovers. With multiple stages, art installations, and food vendors, Mountain Sounds is the perfect festival to escape the city and immerse yourself in nature. Previous headliners include Gang of Youths, RÜFÜS DU SOL, and N.E.R.D.

Electric Gardens

Electric Gardens is a one-day music festival that takes place in February at Centennial Park, Sydney. The festival features a lineup of electronic artists and offers an immersive experience for music lovers. With multiple stages, light installations, and food vendors, Electric Gardens is the perfect festival to dance the night away. Previous headliners include Fatboy Slim, Armand Van Helden, and Erick Morillo.

Under the Southern Stars

Under the Southern Stars is a one-day music festival that takes place in January at Parramatta Park, Sydney. The festival features a lineup of classic rock artists and offers a nostalgic experience for music lovers. With multiple stages and food vendors, Under the Southern Stars is the perfect festival to relive the classics. Previous headliners include Jimmy Barnes, Hoodoo Gurus, and Diesel.

So Far Sounds

So Far Sounds is a series of intimate music events that take place in unique and unconventional venues across Sydney. The events feature emerging and established artists and offer a one-of-a-kind experience for music lovers. With multiple locations and artists, So Far Sounds is the perfect festival to discover new and exciting talent. Previous artists include Tash Sultana, Dean Lewis, and Ruel.

Secret Garden Festival

Secret Garden Festival is a two-day music festival that takes place in February in the Cambray Hills, New South Wales. The festival features a lineup of indie and electronic artists and offers a unique experience for music lovers. With multiple stages, art installations, and food vendors, Secret Garden Festival is the perfect festival to escape the city and immerse yourself in nature. As the name suggests, the location is kept secret until the last minute, adding an element of mystery and excitement to the festival.

FAQs

What is the best music festival in Sydney?

The best music festival in Sydney depends on your personal taste in music. For blues and roots, Bluesfest is the top choice. For indie and alternative, Splendour in the Grass and Laneway Festival are great options. For electronic and hip-hop, Listen Out and FOMO are the go-to festivals.

When do music festivals in Sydney take place?

Music festivals in Sydney take place throughout the year, with the majority of festivals occurring during summer and early autumn.

How much do music festivals in Sydney cost?

The cost of music festivals in Sydney varies depending on the festival and ticket type. General admission tickets for most festivals start at around $100, while VIP tickets can cost upwards of $500.

Are there age restrictions for music festivals in Sydney?

Most music festivals in Sydney are 18+ events, but some festivals offer all-ages options for families.

What should I wear to a music festival in Sydney?

Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty. It’s also a good idea to bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.

Can I bring my own food and drinks to a music festival?

Most music festivals have food and drink vendors on site, but some festivals allow you to bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks. Check the festival’s website for specific guidelines before attending.

What should I bring to a music festival in Sydney?

Bring a backpack with essentials such as sunscreen, a water bottle, and a phone charger. It’s also a good idea to bring a picnic blanket or towel to sit on.

Can I camp at a music festival in Sydney?

Some music festivals in Sydney offer camping options, while others do not. Check the festival’s website for specific information.

Are there any free music festivals in Sydney?