The easygoing summer music festival is just around the corner.
There’s nothing like the serene vibe and laid-back lifestyle of a country town. And when such a country town just so happens to be hosting a three-day celebration of music, culture and community, well then it sounds like it’s time to pack the car and leave the city in the rearview.
From December 1 to 3, the village of Warburton in the Yarra Valley will be hosting its annual River Folk Festival. Spread across venues all throughout town, the festival offers a cruisy weekend full of sweet tunes and small-town delights.
The River Folk Festival 2023 Lineup
- The Maes
- Charles Maimarosia
- John Flanagan
- Gusto Gusto
- The Good Behaviours
- Mickey & Michelle
- Great Aunt
- Jo Davie
- Emily-Rose Sarkova
- Isabel Rumble
- Apolline
- Saije
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around Melbourne here.
Expect to get back down to your roots, dancing barefoot in the grass, sampling handmade and artisanal goods at the iconic Valley Market and mingling with many soon-to-be friends.
This year’s lineup features festival favourites The Maes, award-winning Solomon Islands artist Charles Maimarosia, Grammy-nominated songwriter and storyteller John Flanagan and Melbourne’s most exciting dance band, Gusto Gusto, alongside a host of local and regional highlights.
Festival goers can check out the Opening Night Showcase Concert hosted at Arts Centre Warburton, the Sisters of Song Women’s Showcase celebrating women in music and the dedicated Children’s Space full of fun and games.
Only an hour-and-a-half drive out of the Melbourne CBD, Warburton (population 3,218) is a picturesque area surrounded by lush greenery and mountain ash. There are also public transit options available – those who plan on making the trip sans car can get there by heading to Lilydale station.
When you’re not busy jamming out to the fiddle or strolling through the town, head off on the 3km Yarra River Walk, hike along an old 1901 railway line, or stop by the beautiful LaLa Falls. If the weather allows, you can even cool off with a dip in the river.
There are an assortment of places to stay in Warburton, including luxury lodges, cosy cottages, eco-friendly bed and breakfasts, hip hotels and even a pretty sweet campsite. Grab your tickets, pack up the car and head on out for a weekend of music and peace.
Tickets for the River Folk Festival are on sale now. Grab yours here.
This article was made in partnership with the River Folk Festival.
