02 Jun 2021

During isolation, I, like most of us, spent a hell of a lot of time in my room. My walls are decorated with disposable photos, most of which are from festivals. I almost took these photos down - I mean, talk about rubbing salt in the wound. 

Whilst I sat in my PJs most days like a sad sack of potatoes, here were photos of my friends boogieing in the mosh, sitting on each others' shoulders and musicians onstage with coloured lights so surreal, making me think that it was all just a dream. These photos were taunting me, reminding me that I didn't know when I'd buy my next festival ticket.

But that time has FINALLY COME! The time that festivals return. Oh mate, it's going to be a good year.

1. Festival of the Sun

2021 lineup: The Chats, Benee, Hermitude, Middle Kids

When and where: Port Macquarie, NSW. 9th - 11th December 2021

FOTSUN back in 2019 was my favourite festival of all time. Essentially, it's an annual outdoor music festival held at a tourist park right near the beach in Port Macquarie, or as some locals call it, Pozza Maquozza. So spend your days at red hot beaches, and arvos boogieing. Oh, did I also mention that the fezzy is BYO?

2. Splendour in the Grass

2021 lineup: Gorillaz, The Strokes, Tyler, the Creator 

When and where: Byron Bay, NSW. 19th - 21st November 2021

Splendour is easily one of Australia's most popular festivals. Normally happening in Winter, Splendour 2021 has been pushed back to Spring! Whilst tickets are sold out, if you missed your chance, you'll surely be able to nab some re-sell tix.

3. This That

2021 lineup: Client Liason, Dune Rats, Jack River, Crooked Colours, San Cisco, Allday (just QLD)

When and where: Sandstone Point, QLD - 30th October 2021. Newcastle, NSW - 6th November 2021

This That Festival brings together the hottest new artists from the worlds of electronica, hip-hop, pop and rock alongside all sorts of immersive experiences for one bangin' day. I've been to three This That's and they've never once disappointed. 

4. For The Love

2021 lineup: Flight Facilities, Mallrat, Cosmo's Midnight, Running Touch, Boo Seeka, Lastlings, George Maple, Elizabeth Cambage

When and where: Gold Coast, QLD - 7th August 2021. Perth, WA - 4th September 2021. Melbourne, VIC - 18th September 2021

For The Love is a music and lifestyle brand creating unforgettable moments at incredible locations around the world. Sure, their music lineup is stunning, their allure goes way beyond the music and fashion also plays a major role! The Nana Judy VIP Lounge and industry guests to their eyewear partner Soda Shades adding the colour and good vibes is what For The Love is renowned for.

5. Falls Festival

2019 lineup (2021 TBA but we can remain hopeful... right?): Halsey, Vampire Weekend, Disclosure, Peking Duk, Of Monsters and Men, Lewis Capaldi, Pnau, Milky Chance

When and where (TBA): Byron Bay, NSW. Marion Bay, TAS. Fremantle, WA. Lorne, VIC

Sitting among the true elite, Falls Festival whips up a reliably hyped atmosphere as the end of the year approaches. I've been to Falls a few times and have always, ALWAYS, had the best time camping with my mates, hitting up the beach in the day (in the Byron Falls) and dancing in the scorchin' hot heat. Stay tuned for dates for this one!

6. Bluesfest Byron Bay

2021 lineup: Midnight Oil, Ocean Alley, Jimmy Barnes, Tash Sultana, Ziggy Alberts, John Butler, Xavier Rudd, The Cat Empire

When and where: Byron Bay, NSW. 1st - 4th October 2021

The festival that bills itself as 'Australia's premier contemporary Blues & Roots music festival', is one you don't wanna miss. I mean. Iggy Pop, Lionel Richie and Kendrick Lamar have all played in recent years. This is a fezzy you could enjoy just as much with your mates than with your dad. The ultimate good vibes.

7. Grapevine Gathering

2021 lineup: Peking Duk, The Jungle Giants, Vera Blue, The Veronicas, San Cisco, CC:Disco!, King Stingray, Rest for the Wicked

When and where: Caversham, WA - 2nd October 2021. Pokolbin, NSW - 9th October 2021. Coldstream, VIC - 16th October 2021

If you fancy experiencing music, food and wine in picturesque wine country, then look no further than Grapevine Gathering. Kick back and enjoy the sounds of some of our indie, dance and alternative favourites while indulging in the finest of culinary delights, such as wood-fired pizzas, gourmet burgers and slow-cooked, smoked treats. 

So save up your dosh because it's time to make up for all of our lost time.