We’ve rounded up our top picks for summer music festivals in and around Sydney, catering to every taste from indie music with beachside vibes to electrifying city experiences.
Sydney’s summer festival season is packed with some of Australia’s biggest names in music, and nearby Melbourne adds a few iconic stops of its own. From electronic extravaganzas to indie bliss, here’s your ultimate list of must-attend summer music festivals in Sydney, Melbourne, and beyond. We’ve covered the top festivals, dates, locations, and what makes each event unmissable, plus a peek at their stellar lineups.
Lost Paradise
Location: Glenworth Valley, Central Coast (1.5 hours north of Sydney)
Date: 28th Dec 2024 – 1st Jan 2025
Why It’s Worth the Hype: Escape the city for a camping festival that merges music, wellness, and nature. Lost Paradise is set in the lush Glenworth Valley and includes everything from yoga and art workshops to an impressive lineup of indie, electronic, and hip-hop artists. It’s a New Year’s destination that feels like a music retreat.
Lineup Highlights: Fisher, Marlon Hoffstadt, Flight Facilities, CC: Disco, Kita Alexander, Little Fritter
Beyond the Valley
Location: Barunah Plains, Victoria (near Melbourne)
Date: 28th Dec 2024 – 1st Jan 2025
Why It’s Worth the Hype: Just outside of Melbourne, this festival is perfect for a getaway from Sydney or an adventurous road trip. This annual celebration combines music, art, and camping, and has been delighting attendees for nine years. Over four days, you can enjoy a lineup of top-tier artists, creating an unforgettable experience.
Lineup Highlights: Fisher, Marlon Hoffstadt, Royel Otis, Sugababes, Confidence Man, DJ Boring
Field Day
Location: The Domain, Sydney
Date: 1st January, 2025
Why It’s Worth the Hype: This is Sydney’s very own New Year’s Day party, ideal for those easing into the new year and saving their energy for a day festival. It features a diverse crowd and lineup with a mix of electronic, hip-hop, and indie sounds – there’s something for everyone.
Lineup Highlights: Pendulum, Luude, RL Grime, Horsegiirl, Sam Alfred, Case & Status
Let Them Eat Cake
Location: Werribee Mansion, Melbourne
Date: 1st January, 2025
Why It’s Worth the Hype: This boutique music festival in Melbourne is dedicated to electronic, trance, and dance music. If you’re a fan of these genres, there’s no better scene to immerse yourself in. While it may require a drive or a short plane ride to get there, this festival is well worth the journey for an incredible experience.
Lineup Highlights: Brent Honey, DJ Jnett, Criminal, STUM, X Club, Yarra
The Nowhere Festival
Location: Cockatoo Island, Sydney
Date: 8th & 9th February, 2025
Why It’s Worth the Hype: Introducing The Nowhere Festival, making its Sydney debut this year on Cockatoo Island. Set against Australia’s iconic waterfront, this two-day dance festival promises a transformative experience with a vibrant lineup. Get ready for a heavy-hitting dance music weekend in one of the city’s most breathtaking locations.
Lineup Highlights: Moodyman, Adiel, Marcel Dettmann, Moopie, Paul Woolford, Sampol
Laneway Festival
Location: Centennial Park, Sydney
Date: 9th February 2025
Why It’s Worth the Hype: With a stellar lineup of electronic and dance artists, this festival promises an unforgettable experience for those who like to get down. Charli XCX will headline, performing hits from her Brat album, all set in Centennial Park’s lush, leafy surroundings just outside the city.
Lineup Highlights: Charlie XCX, Barry Can’t Swim, STUM, Bicep
Yours and Owls Festival
Location: Wollongong City (1.5 hours from Sydney CBD)
Date: 1st & 2nd March, 2025
Why It’s Worth the Hype: This laid-back coastal festival offers a scenic and relaxed beachside vibe, catering to indie and alt-rock lovers. It’s the perfect weekend getaway, with convenient train access straight into Wollongong.
Lineup Highlights: Denzel Curry, The Kooks, Goo Goo Dolls, The Jungle Giants, The Veronicas, San Cisco
