The Merri Bar is throwing a free live music festival with five acts and drink specials
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08.12.2025

The Merri Bar is throwing a free live music festival with five acts and drink specials

Words by staff writer

Merri Fest '25 is taking over the beloved Preston pub with an afternoon of tunes and good times.

Nothing says summer in Melbourne quite like a free Sunday session that stretches well into the night. Merri Fest ’25 is landing at The Merri on 21 December, bringing five live acts to the Preston venue from 3pm till late with absolutely no cover charge.

The lineup for Merri Fest ’25 features Rhys Thompson, Ebi Nori, Lalu, Oscar Ladell and Antixx 101 across an afternoon and evening of live music. The event also promises drink specials to keep things moving as the sun sets.

Merri Fest ’25

  • The Merri Bar, 15 Gilbert Rd, Preston
  • 21 December, from 3pm till late
  • Free entry

Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around Melbourne here.

 

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The lineup pulls together a diverse mix of Melbourne’s local music scene. Rhys Thompson is a folk and Americana singer-songwriter, Oscar Ladell brings a soulful presence to proceedings – the US-born, New Zealand-raised artist blends blues, soul and roots music. Ebi Nori serves up powerful, soulful vocals (she’s renowned from her work with The Phantom Fingers), while Lalu deliver sparkling guitar interplay, familiar yet slightly discordant melodies and starkly emotional lyrics. Rounding out the bill is Antixx 101, the hip hop alias of Antony Attridge.

The Merri has long been a favourite haunt for locals in Melbourne’s inner north, known for its relaxed beer garden vibes and regular live music program. Merri Fest is always one of the venue’s highlights for the year, stacking five artists into a single Sunday session as the festive season kicks into gear.

Whether you’re a Merri regular or just looking for somewhere to spend a lazy December Sunday, this one’s worth marking in the calendar.

For more information, head here.