The free summer event, St Kilda Festival, is coming back for its 45th year. Set across two fantastic days, and split across multiple stages, you’ll listen to over 100 artists along the St Kilda foreshore and surrounding area. The first day will feature a line-up of First Peoples’ talent, followed by the traditional Big Festival Sunday. On top of the music, there will also be roving performers, food and market stalls, workshops and more. St Kilda Festival will run from Saturday February 14 to Sunday February 15.
St Kilda Festival 2026
Swing by on Saturday for First Peoples First, which will take over two stages at South Beach Reserve and O’Donnell Gardens. Listen to artists like ARIA Award winner BARKAA, powerhouse rock group Selve and alternative duo Charlie Needs Braces.
When you’re not soaking in the live music, check out cool cultural workshops, markets and activities, like basket weaving and face painting. Then, end the day with a beautiful sunset ceremony.
Return to St Kilda for Big Festival Sunday. The line-up is absolutely stacked this year, with performances from multiple ARIA Award-winner Jessica Mauboy and dancefloor icons Sneaky Sound System. Aussie band Mental As Anything will also make a return, with original founding members Peter O’Doherty and Reg Mombassa reuniting on the 25th anniversary of their last St Kilda Festival show.
The New Music Competition will make a return on Sunday. This competition, which has previous launched the careers of Missy Higgins, Baker Boy and Client Liaison, is all about celebrating upcoming homegrown Aussie talent. There’s ten finalists to choose from, and the winner will receive $5000 and an invitation to perform at the festival in 2027.
Throughout the festival, you can also look forward to dance performances, workshops, carnival rides and more. Browse through the various food and market stalls and indulge in a little treat. Check out a Medieval Combat Display, shake to the rhythm of a Latin Street Carnaval, dance to the POOF DOOF Pride Patrol and more.
Remember, this festival is free to attend, and open to all ages. Learn more about it here.