Groovin the Moo will return in 2026 for a special one-off event in Lismore, marking the festival’s first edition since announcing an indefinite hiatus last year.
The long-running regional touring festival confirmed Tuesday (Feb. 24) that it will stage a single show at Oakes Oval on May 9, presented by Great Southern Nights. The lineup features a mix of Australian heavyweights and international talent, led by Florida rapper Denzel Curry, who will serve as the event’s sole overseas guest.
Australian artists on the bill include Baker Boy, Tones And I, Dope Lemon, Matt Corby, Ninajirachi, The Chats, The Terrys and Maple’s Pet Dinosaur. Additional performances will come from Angel White, The Colliflowers and Kath Ebbs, who will present their popular queer line-dancing event Cowboy Country. A Homegrown Hero competition winner will also join the lineup.
First launched in 2005, Groovin the Moo built its identity on bringing major contemporary lineups to regional centers across Australia, becoming a key fixture in the country’s live music calendar. Its absence in 2025 followed mounting industry pressures that have impacted festivals nationwide, including rising production costs and challenging economic conditions.
The 2026 Lismore edition will operate as an all-ages event and include fundraising initiatives, in keeping with the festival’s longstanding community focus. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time and will be licensed.
The return is supported by Great Southern Nights, the NSW Government-backed live music initiative delivered by Destination NSW in partnership with the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA).
Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said, “I’m thrilled that Great Southern Nights will feature in the return of Groovin the Moo in Lismore.
“Great Southern Nights is all about creating unforgettable experiences in local communities and driving visitation across the state, so it’s fantastic to be collaborating on the return of one of Australia’s most loved regional festivals and giving people a chance to come together through the joy of live music.”
ARIA Chief Executive Officer, Annabelle Herd celebrated the return of Groovin the Moo. “This is a genuinely special moment for Australian music. GTM has long been a rite of passage for artists and fans, and a powerful reminder of the role regional Australia plays in our live music ecosystem.”
“Its return reflects years of work rebuilding confidence and ambition in the sector and shows what sustained investment can deliver: iconic events back in the hands of fans, new opportunities for emerging artists, and lasting cultural and economic impact for regional centres like Lismore.”
