Maleny Music Festival unveils 2025 line-up

Enjoy the sweet sounds of Cosmic Honey, an original folk-rock, blues blended musical experience. 

The Maleny Music Festival will return this November with three days of music, workshops and community celebration at the Maleny Showgrounds.

Now in its 12th year, the volunteer-run festival has grown into a highlight on the Sunshine Coast calendar, with more than 60 acts performing across seven stages. The program features over 150 concerts, dances and workshops, running from morning through to midnight.

Festival Director Rachel Clarke said this year’s line-up blends familiar favourites with exciting new talent.

“We’ve got our old favourites and lots of new talent in the mix too, from our folk roots to contemporary vocalists and sensational party bands to finish the night on,” she said. “This is a showcase of the finest emerging and established talent that will leave you with a new favourite artist. There are 11 artists from overseas and interstate and a huge talent pool from Queensland.”

The festival has long built its reputation on intimacy and community spirit.

“I love the size of it, it’s perfect,” Ms Clarke said. “It’s small enough that you can easily walk around, but it’s jam-packed with music and variety, just like the bigger festivals. Yet it still gives you the vibe and intimacy of a smaller event.”

New for 2025 is a Youth Showcase on the Friday night, giving younger artists their own spotlight and aiming to attract a new generation of festivalgoers.

Beyond the main stages, the program offers a jamming tent for those who bring their own instruments, open mic sessions, hands-on workshops and lantern-making. Festival-goers will also find food stalls, bars, markets and roving street performers.

Families are encouraged to attend, with children under 12 admitted free and teenagers at half price. The kids’ hub, The Hub, will run all day with performances, workshops and creative activities.

Ms Clarke said the festival remains proudly grassroots. “This relaxed, family-friendly festival is run entirely by volunteers, celebrating music, art and togetherness. Whether you join in for yoga and bush poetry at sunrise, or dance into the evening under the stars — Maleny Music Festival is made for those who appreciate quality music and authentic experience.”

The Maleny Music Festival will be held across three days this November at the Maleny Showgrounds. Tickets and full program details are available via the festival’s website.