Australia may be known for its stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and vibrant cities, but we also have a thriving music scene, especially when it comes to blues festivals in Australia.
So mark your calendars, pack your bags, and get ready to embark on a musical adventure through some of the best blues festivals Australia has to offer!
Whether you’re a blues lover or simply curious about this genre, these festivals provide the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the soulful rhythms and electrifying performances that define the blues.
Our Top 5 Favourite Blues Festivals in Australia
1. The Blues Train, Queenscliff
Let’s start with the iconic – The Blues Train. Located in the picturesque coastal town of Queenscliff, Victoria, The Blues Train is a fantastic bucket list experience.
From the moment you step onto the platform, you’ll feel a palpable excitement in the air.
The journey begins with a visit to the T-Bar, located on the platform, and soon after, friendly staff serve up a scrumptious buffet meal including smokey BBQ beef and creamy baked chicken. Then find a spot in your carriage and prepare for a musical odyssey of haunting Delta blues to electrifying blues-rock while you shimmy and shake the night away.
The sway of the carriage, the clickety-clack of the tracks, and the breathtaking coastal views of Swan Bay set the stage for an unparalleled blues experience. Get ready to dance, laugh, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
2. Echuca-Moama Winter Blues Festival
Heading up the Murray River to Echuca, you’ll find another gem on our list, the Echuca-Moama Winter Blues Festival. This event brings together blues enthusiasts from all over the country to celebrate the foot-stompin’ tunes of blues music. With multiple stages featuring both established and emerging artists, the Echuca Blues Festival offers a diverse lineup that caters to all tastes within the blues genre.
Echuca’s historic Port Precinct provides the perfect backdrop for a weekend of music, food, and a sense of community that is second to none.
Explore their range of boutique restaurants, café’s, pubs, cellar doors, attractions and specialty shops. Then as the sun sets over the river, and the notes of the blues waft through the air, you’ll find yourself surrounded by fellow blues aficionados, united by your love of harmonious grooves.
Bring the whole family, there’s arts and crafts, temporary tattoos, circus acts, jumping castle, face painting and more. The Winter Blues Festival is an all-inclusive, all access, family event with various all-ages stages around town. It’s a festival that not only celebrates the music but also the sense of togetherness that it fosters.
Best of all, most of the Echuca-Moama Winter Blues Festival events are free!
3. Byron Bay Bluesfest
For those who prefer their blues served with a side of sunshine and surf, the Byron Bay Bluesfest at Tyagarah Tea Tree Farm is an absolute must-visit. Held annually over the Easter long weekend, this festival has earned a reputation as one of the premier blues events in the Southern Hemisphere.
Byron Bay’s idyllic beaches and lush hinterland make for a spectacular backdrop to the world-class lineup of blues, roots, and rock artists who have graced their stages since 1990, including Bob Dylan, Hozier, Paul Simon, Robert Plant, John Mayer, James Brown, Joss Stone, and BB King to name a few.
From international legends to emerging talents, the Bluesfest features over 200 spectacular performances.
The festival’s commitment to sustainability and its family-friendly atmosphere make it a fantastic destination for music lovers of all ages.
Whether you’re dancing to the tunes of a blues guitar under the starry skies or relaxing with a cold beverage, this festival offers an unforgettable experience that perfectly embodies the spirit of blues and Byron Bay.
4. Blues on Broadbeach Music Festival
Don’t forget to add the popular Blues on Broadbeach Music Festival to your list of unmissable blues music events in Australia. Surrender yourself to four jam-packed days and nights of live rhythm and blues music right in the heart of the magnificent Gold Coast at Queensland’s Broadbeach.
The Blues on Broadbeach Music Festival is one of Australia’s largest free music festivals and yet another shining star in Australia’s blues festival lineup.
This festival transforms the vibrant, ocean view streets of Broadbeach into a haven for blues enthusiasts. With its seaside setting, you can expect the soothing sound of waves as a backdrop to the soulful tunes permeating the air. Blues on Broadbeach boasts an impressive array of local and international talent, ensuring that every blues subgenre is covered.
There are multiple indoor and outdoor stages so whether you’re grooving to the tunes of blues legends or discovering emerging artists, this festival creates an electric atmosphere that resonates with every blues brother and soul sister.
The combination of top-notch music, lively crowds, and proximity to the beach makes Blues on Broadbeach a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the blues in a truly unique and breathtaking setting.
5. Mitchell Creek Rock N Blues Fest
Venture into the scenic bushland of Noosa Hinterland’s impressive Mary Valley on the Sunshine Coast of Queensland and discover a hidden wonder for lovers of rock and blues – the Mitchell Creek Rock N Blues Fest.
This festival is a celebration of all things bluesy, offering a harmonious blend of rock and blues performances with two alternating stages of non-stop music.
The laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere combined with the breathtaking beauty of the region makes this an incredible long weekend escape for music enthusiasts. The surrounding mountains make a natural amphitheatre for over 120 artists to perform their foot-stomping grooves.
With its commitment to showcasing local talent alongside established acts, Mitchell Creek Rock N Blues Fest embodies the spirit of community and the love for authentic rock and blues music.
Surrounded by fellow music lovers, this festival creates an intimate and unforgettable camping festival experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the enduring allure of blues and rock.
Bonus Festival: Queenscliff Music Festival
Although not exclusively blues, the Queenscliff Music Festival can’t be overlooked. The Queenscliff Music Festival, is an innovative three day cultural and music event that celebrates a diverse range of musical genres, including blues.
Located on the Bellarine Peninsula in the quaint township of Queenscliff this is truly a magical long weekend event offering a captivating mix of artists from various genres, creating a musical tapestry that appeals to a wide audience.
The festival’s commitment to showcasing emerging talents alongside well-established acts ensures that there’s always something new and exciting to discover. So, if you’re looking to expand your musical horizons beyond blues while enjoying the coastal charm of Queenscliff, this festival is a fantastic addition to your music festival itinerary.
Experience the Ultimate Blues Festival in Australia
Blues music, with its raw emotion and soulful melodies, has found a home in the hearts of many Australians. From the gritty rhythms of The Blues Train to the sun-soaked sounds of Byron Bay Bluesfest, each festival offers a distinct atmosphere that showcases the rich diversity of blues music in Australia.
Book your ticket to ride the Blues Train and experience the ultimate in blues, with a mouthwatering meal and an unforgettable lineup of four live blues entertainers.
