Byron Bay Bluesfest might be the most famous event on the North Coast of NSW. But it’s far from the only party worth road tripping for. Here are five major events to add to your calendar.
MARCH/APRIL: BYRON BAY BLUESFEST
Needless to say, Byron Bay Bluesfest can’t be left off the list. Since it first was held in 1990 at the Byron Bay Arts Factory, this festival has become bigger and bigger – and bigger.
It’s now one of the largest music festivals in Australia, alongside Tamworth Country Music Festival and Woodford Folk Festival. More than 100,000 people attend every Easter long weekend to watch more than 200 performances over five days. Some of music history’s best-known legends have played here, from Paul Simon and The Animals to Ben Harper and Jack Johnson.
You can include an onsite camping spot with your ticket – but, if you’d prefer to travel in comfort, then rent a holiday house.
JULY: SPLENDOUR IN THE GRASS
While Bluesfest has a focus on blues (of course) and roots, Splendour in the Grass is all about contemporary music. The bill features a mix of emerging and established artists from Australia and around the world, with previous acts having included Coldplay, Arctic Monkeys, Kanye West and Lorde.
On top of the music, a plethora of experiences is always on the program. These include Splendour Arts, where you can immerse yourself in art installations; the Global Village, where you can meet healers, therapists and tarot readers; and markets, filled with fashion, jewellery, arts and crafts. And you won’t need to pack a picnic – there are loads of food stalls peddling freshly cooked dishes, from burgers and gozleme to spring rolls and noodles.
AUGUST: BYRON WRITERS FESTIVAL
Every August, writers, poets and readers converge on Byron Bay for the annual Writers Festival. It’s an excellent excuse to visit the North Coast in the deep of winter — if the sunshine isn’t already enough, that is.
More than 100 events take place across five venues. Hear hot topics thrashed out in panel discussions, listen to writers read from their latest books, and join workshops where you’ll learn to improve your own writing technique.
If you don’t want to miss a thing, book a three-day pass. Or, if you’re just dropping by, opt for a one-day pass. It’s also possible to buy tickets for particular events.
OCTOBER: DORRIGO FOLK AND BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL
This magical event takes place surrounded by rainforest in Dorrigo, around an hour’s drive inland from Coffs Harbour. Every year, more than 40 acts from around Australia and overseas take over the pretty town with folk, bluegrass and old-time music.
But it’s not just about sitting and listening. The audience is invited to interact – whether that means grabbing an instrument and joining a jam session, or having a dance. Plus, there are plenty of workshops.
While you’re in the area, check out some of the unexpected experiences you can have in Coffs Harbour, or find out why the region is NSW’s first official eco destination.
OCTOBER: BYRON BAY INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
Innovative feature films, intelligent documentaries and quirky short films are all on the program at the Byron Bay International Film Festival. A corner of the program is also dedicated entirely to surf-inspired movies.
Alongside the screenings, look out for special events, such as virtual reality showcases; music video premieres; panel discussions about controversial topics like the use of AI in film-making; and free outdoor cinema by the beach.
GETTING TO THE NORTH COAST
The North Coast begins a couple of hours’ drive north of Sydney and extends all the way to the Queensland border. If you’re planning a road trip, visit our Sydney to Brisbane guide for some handy tips.
Short on time? Consider flying to Coffs Harbour Airport or Ballina Airport, and then picking up a car hire with SIXT.
