Curtain rising for St Kilda Festival

More than 60 acts are taking to multiple stages for the 43^rd year of Australia’s most popular free music festival. Adding to the fun, roving performers and buskers will be on hand and there are plenty of family entertainment and activities on offer.

Proudly presented by City of Port Phillip, this two-day celebration of Australian music kicks off with First Peoples First on 17 February from 10 am - 9 pm. The incredible line-up of First Nations artists includes Mo’Ju, Birren, Charlie Needs Braces, Pirritu, The Merindas and Ziggy Ramo and the event concludes with a sunset ceremony Kummargii Yulendji Gadabah (together we rise up with knowledge). 

We’re delighted the Victorian Government is joining with us to celebrate the significant talent of First People’s artists at this unique event by providing a $40,000 grant.

Thousands are expected to flock to the foreshore and beyond the next day for Big Festival Sunday from 10 am to 10 pm.

The Main Stage will feature Bag Raiders, Budjerah, Mallrat, Thandi Phoenix, Mark Seymour & the Undertow, 1300 and last year’s New Music Competition Winner, Julian Munyard.

Singing Our Futures, presented by the Archie Roach Foundation, returns to both days of the Festival.

Other Sunday programming includes:

The Cointreau Summer Stage (18+) at Catani Gardens featuring performers including Northeast Party House, Gut Health, J-MILLA and Forest Claudette.

The Triangle Stage playing host to RVG, Platonic Sex, Cool Sounds, Chikchika, The Slingers and Big Words.

The Locals Stage at Acland Plaza showcasing performances from artists including JHM, Bailey Judd, Tanya George, and The Miffs.

The family friendly fun on Big Festival Sunday includes the O’Donnell Gardens Stage, with a dedicated program of children’s entertainment from morning until early afternoon. There are also plenty of other fun activities to keep the kids entertained, including a silent disco and CLIPPED Karaoke at Shakespeare Grove.

Popular children’s band Team Dream, performers Whistle & Trick, Woody’s World interactive ukulele music and storytelling and Riot Baby’s punk take on children’s books are just some of the acts on offer for younger festival-goers.

Don’t miss the New Music Stage where a 2025 St Kilda Festival Main Stage opening slot and $5,000 cash prize is on the line as part of the New Music Competition. Other stages include the POOF DOOF Pride Patrol stage on Fitzroy Street, the Espy Live Stage on Pollington Street, the Rhythm Quarter at Alfred Square and the Dance Zone near the St Kilda Sea Baths.

St Kilda Festival’s diverse program also features dance performances, workshops, sports demonstrations, community group activities, food and market stalls and extended business trading.

Renowned as one of Australia’s largest and longest running free music and cultural events, it’s no wonder the Festival brings significant economic benefits to St Kilda all while celebrating and promoting fantastic Australian talent.