Great Southern Nights returns in 2026 with a stack of artists and new festival initiatives, backed by NSW Government.

Great Southern Nights is excited to announce a new series of events called Live Fest, a single day offering, with uniquely programmed line-ups in Dubbo and Tamworth. On top of the incredible music, Live Fest encourages attendees to grab friends, plan a roadtrip, make a weekend of it and explore everything these regions have to offer.

Great Southern Nights opens with a weekend of spectacular music and scenery at Dubbo’s Lazy River Estate on Saturday 2 May 2026, featuring multiple ARIA Hall of Fame inductees and some of Australia’s most revered acts; PAUL KELLY, MISSY HIGGINS, THE CRUEL SEA, THE CAT EMPIRE, KASEY CHAMBERS, and JESS HITCHCOCK.
 
The beautifully manicured grounds and rolling vineyards leading down to the Macquarie River form a stunning backdrop for this family friendly, licensed/all ages event and is the perfect way to open the 2026 iteration of Great Southern Nights.
 
Paul Kelly said; “Really looking forward to bringing our travelling caravan to Dubbo and playing under those big skies. It’s been too long!”