There’s nothing better than a summer music festival, especially when it includes live bands, local food vendors, community spirit and so much more.
To celebrate Summer the right way, check out these South Australian music festivals bringing light and joy this January.
Wildlands
Wildlands is a relatively new music festival with dates in South Australia, Queensland and Western Australia. Kicking off its third year in Ellis Park, this popular event is all about dance, electronic, indie and hip-hop music from around the world.
Head to the bar for alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, while a range of delicious food vendors serve all your favourite festival eats. Plus, water stations will be located around the venue to keep you hydrated all day long.
There are two massive stages to choose from, each showcasing superstar acts you won’t want to miss. After a Welcome to Country, keep an ear out for the sweet sounds of Lola Young, Royel Otis, Tinashe, Ice Spice, Brent Honey, Fisher and so much more. You’re sure to find the artists on repeat at home, while also discovering some fresh faces to mix up your 2025 playlist.
Choose from a general admission ticket, or upgrade to a VIP Package for express festival entry, access to the Summit Stage VIP viewing platform, a private bar, private toilets, and exclusive experiences. The festival is only for people ages 16 and over.
Spindrift
Spindrift is a one-of-a-kind music festival located on Port Lincoln’s stunning coastline. This vibrant festival is a celebration of South Australian music and culture, creating a sense of community bonding with South Australian artists, local food vendors and a focus on inclusivity.
The festival aims to champion thriving and emerging SA talent. It also seeks to bring new visitors to the Eyre Peninsula, a region known for its stunning natural beauty and fresh seafood.
This year, the all-star lineup features Burnt Orange, an Adelaide-based four piece band playing funk, rock and soulful ballads to entertain all types of music-listeners. They are dedicated to serving good times, with high energy sets that celebrate Australia’s sun soaked culture.
Make sure to also check out Brass Souls, a six-piece band inspired by ‘brasshouse’ music, which is a mix of jazz, Afro-Cuban rhythms, funk and EDM. Playing a variety of exciting instruments, they perform well-known hits and lesser-known pieces, all designed to make you want to get up and dance.
All ages are welcome to attend, with a kids’ disco scheduled for early in the day. There will also be plenty of exciting food and drink options, with a licensed bar serving refreshing beverages all day long.
AYO Summer Music Festival
The Australian Youth Orchestra’s 2025 Summer Music Festival is bound to delight music-lovers of all ages. Led by a team of internationally acclaimed conductors, the orchestra will transport you all across the world as they explore the romance of Strauss, drama of Dvorak, and beauty of Sibelius.
Audiences will also have the chance to hear three new works from Jessica Wells, this year’s composer-in-residence, who lets her talent shine in each unique piece. Having orchestrated scores for screen productions including “Elvis”, “Blueback”, “Shadow and Bone”, and “Paper Planes”, she remains in demand as a concert composer.
For two weeks, Adelaide will come to life with a show-stopping series of performances from Australia’s best new talent. Whether you’re a seasoned classics lover, or a new fan hoping to enjoy live music, you won’t want to miss your chance to see the orchestra perform. Make sure to check out the outdoor art workshops also run as part of the festival.
To read about the best island festivals around Australia, click here.
