For the first time in ARIA history, Australian music festivals are receiving formal recognition with the introduction of the Best Music Festival Award. Announced as part of the ARIA Awards nominee reveal, this new category, developed in partnership with Tixel and the Australian Festival Association (AFA), celebrates the vital role festivals play in shaping culture, launching artists, and bringing communities together.
This groundbreaking award highlights the significance of festivals as both cultural institutions and economic powerhouses. Festivals not only provide breakthrough moments for artists but also connect them with new audiences while fostering a sense of community. The award aims to showcase events that champion Australian talent and contribute to the growth and vibrancy of the local music scene.
The nominees for the inaugural Best Music Festival Award are:
- Ability Fest – Dylan Alcott Foundation + Untitled Group
- Beyond The Valley – Untitled Group / Beyond The Valley Music Festival
- Bluesfest Byron Bay – Bluesfest Byron Bay
- Laneway Festival – St Jerome’s Laneway / Laneway Festival
- Yours and Owls Festival – Yours and Owls
Recognising the Importance of Festivals
The Best Music Festival Award arrives at a time when festivals are increasingly seen as essential to Australia’s cultural fabric. Zac Leigh, co-founder of Tixel, emphasised the deep cultural and personal impact of festivals.
“Festivals are so much more than line-ups – they’re where Australians form lifelong memories, connect with community, and discover the artists who shape our culture,” Leigh said. “We’ve worked hard with ARIA to create this award because festivals deserve to stand on the same stage as our country’s most celebrated music moments.”
ARIA CEO Annabelle Herd echoed this sentiment, underscoring the pivotal role festivals play in showcasing and supporting local talent.
“The ARIA Best Music Festival Award is an important and exciting addition this year, celebrating the festivals that actively prioritise and champion Australian talent,” Herd said. “Festivals shape our music culture, drive industry growth, and play a pivotal role in showcasing the diversity and strength of our local music community.”
The Pulse of Festival Culture in Australia
Tixel’s 2025 Ticketing State of Play report offers insights into Australians’ connection to live music and festivals. According to the report, 72% of Australians view festivals as a rite of passage for young people, while 62% consider live events a non-negotiable priority, even as cost-of-living pressures rise. The motivations for attending festivals go beyond just the music, with 54% attending for the crowd experience and 28% for the sense of community.
Despite challenges, including the rising cost of living, Australians continue to support the live music ecosystem. Over 82% back initiatives like “Michael’s Rule,” which rewards touring musicians for choosing Australian support acts.
This new award recognises the importance of the entire ecosystem behind Australia’s vibrant music scene, from the artists and organisers to the fans who make festivals possible. With the nominees announced, all eyes are now on the ARIA Awards night to see which festival will take home this historic honour.
The ARIA Awards ceremony takes place on November 19 and is a celebration of not just artists but the thriving festival culture that underpins Australia’s music industry.
