Stars & Bars Festival Heats Up Heathcote in 2026: A Sonic Sojourn Like No Other

Heathcote's mainstay festival returns for a weekend of raging good fun!

The Stars & Bars Festival is returning to Heathcote with an electrifying two-day celebration, set for Friday, 17th and Saturday, 18th April 2026. Touted as the “Trail Blazin’, Star Gazin’, Hell Raisin’ Countrified Music Festival,” this event offers festivalgoers an unforgettable mix of magical mystery music tours and a curated exploration of the region’s renowned wineries and breweries. In its fifth edition, the festival promises an unparalleled lineup that’s a little bit cosmic and a whole lot rock ‘n’ roll. Music lovers can look forward to performances from an incredible array of artists, including O.R.B., Immigrant Union, Bud Rokesky, Acid Arrow, Grim Fawkner, and Leslie D. King, alongside local talent like The High Street Drifters, Elly McK & The Unbelievers, and more. Special guest DJ Chunky Love will also be spinning tunes to keep the energy high.

Stars & Bars

When: Friday 17 – Saturday 18 April

Where: Heathcote town takeover

Lineup

O.R.B
Immigrant Union
Bud Rokesky
The High Street Drifters
Acid Arrow
Elly Mck & The Unbelievers
Grim Fawkner
Alister Turrill
Matt Bourke
Leslie D.King
Plus special guest
DJ Chunky Love

Keep connected to your live music scene here.

 

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From alt-country and Americana to bluegrass, garage blues, and fuzzed-out psych rock, there’s a genre for every musical taste. Whether you’re drawn to rock ‘n’ soul or craving that raw Australiana vibe, this year’s edition promises a lineup that stretches the boundaries of musical exploration.

One of the festival’s signature experiences is the Heathcote Express Bus Tour, which will take attendees on a guided adventure through the region’s best-known locales. The day begins with an early lunch and live performance at the Redesdale Hotel followed by a wine tasting session at Sanguine Estate, set against the stunning backdrop of rolling hills and vineyard vistas. The tour then continues to Munari Winery for an intimate golden hour set before winding down at Palling Bros Brewery, where the Evening Session will light up the night. Each of the festival’s carefully chosen locales offers much more than just food and drink. They are immersive spaces, rich in history and culture, perfectly suited for live music performances. Attendees will experience Heathcote as a destination that blends top-tier entertainment with a sensory exploration of the region’s exceptional wines, craft beers, artisanal spirits, and fresh local produce.

What makes Stars & Bars truly special is its deep connection to the local community. The festival brings together a host of passionate musicians, local vendors, and hospitality professionals to celebrate the region’s unique charm. For those wanting to indulge in Heathcote’s famous hospitality, the Friday Night Family Dinner at The Watering Hole Heathcote will set the tone for the weekend. Guests can enjoy a hearty meal and enjoy live performances from Grim Fawkner, Alister Turrill, Matt Bourke, Leslie D. King, and special guest DJ Chunky Love. It’s the perfect way to unwind and warm up for the festival’s main event.

Heathcote offers a range of accommodation options, from motels and caravan parks to glamping and rustic farmstays, making it easy for festivalgoers to find a comfortable spot to rest after a day of music and adventure. This year, a new Bendigo Boomerang Bus Service will also be available, departing from Bendigo Train Station and providing a convenient return service for festival attendees.

The festival offers four distinct ticket types for attendees to tailor their experience. These include the Heathcote Express Bus Tour, a full day’s tour on Saturday, 18th April, including wine tastings, performances, and transport; the Friday Night Family Dinner for an intimate evening at The Watering Hole on Friday, 17th April; the Evening Session at Palling Bros Brewery for those who can’t make the full tour; and the Bendigo Boomerang Bus Service offering transport options. With tickets available now via Oztix, festivalgoers are encouraged to book early, as tickets are strictly limited. For full details and to secure your spot, visit Stars & Bars Festival Heathcote here.

Stars & Bars is proudly supported by Blueprint Sounds and Moon Dog Craft Brewery. For a weekend of unforgettable music, scenic views, and local flavour, don’t miss out on what promises to be one of the most exciting festivals of 2026.

Tickets are on sale now and can be picked up here.