Groovin the Moo Returns for 2026
A touchstone of Australia’s live music culture, Groovin The Moo returns in 2026 for a one-off show on 9 May in Lismore, presented by Great Southern Nights with the support of the NSW Government through Destination NSW and in partnership with the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA).
First established in 2005, Groovin The Moo was built on a simple but enduring idea: bring major contemporary music line-ups to regional centres and place those communities at the heart of the experience. Over two decades, the festival has become deeply embedded in Australia’s cultural landscape, shaping formative live music moments for generations of fans across the country.
The 2026 Lismore event marks a deliberate and considered return for the festival, presented as a single-show format marking the first step of a long-term sustainable model for Australia’s most loved regional touring festival. Starting with a single stage and single day show allows the festival to rebuild with care, while staying true to its regional foundations.
“This is about bringing Groovin The Moo back in a way that honours what it has always stood for,” said Adelle Robinson, CEO of Fuzzy.
“The festival belongs to regional Australia. Returning with a one-off show allows us to focus on doing it with the care and responsibility it deserves while the festival industry continues to navigate rising costs and increased pressure. We are so thrilled to come to Lismore, a place that reflects the spirit and resilience of the communities that Groovin The Moo has supported from the beginning.”
We thank Great Southern Nights, the NSW Government, Destination NSW and ARIA for their support. Without that support this return of GTM would not be possible”
Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said, “I’m thrilled that Great Southern Nights will feature in the return of Groovin’ the Moo in Lismore. Great Southern Nights is all about creating unforgettable experiences in local communities and driving visitation across the state, so it’s fantastic to be collaborating on the return of one of Australia’s most loved regional festivals and giving people a chance to come together through the joy of live music. Events like this showcase the strength of our regional offering and reinforce NSW as the nation’s home of world-class visitor experiences right across our state.”
ARIA Chief Executive Officer, Annabelle Herd celebrated the return of Groovin The Moo.
“This is a genuinely special moment for Australian music. GTM has long been a rite of passage for artists and fans, and a powerful reminder of the role regional Australia plays in our live music ecosystem.”
“Its return reflects years of work rebuilding confidence and ambition in the sector and shows what sustained investment can deliver: iconic events back in the hands of fans, new opportunities for emerging artists, and lasting cultural and economic impact for regional centres like Lismore.”
The Mayor of Lismore welcomed the announcement as a major milestone for the city.
“Hosting Groovin the Moo marks a defining moment in Lismore’s continued growth, signalling our return as a confident, contemporary regional centre that is firmly back on the national events map,” said
Mayor Steve Krieg.
“Lismore has long been a place where creativity, culture and community intersect, and this announcement reflects the strength of that legacy and its relevance today. Our city has a proven track record of delivering major events, underpinned by passionate audiences, deep creative talent and the infrastructure to support large-scale experiences.
“Recent investment means we have a flexible, high-quality venue capable of attracting major sporting and cultural events of national significance. We’re excited to partner with the Groovin the Moo team to deliver an outstanding event that attracts visitors, energises the local economy and showcases Lismore as a vibrant destination where music, arts and regional life thrive.”
Lismore was selected as the host city for its enduring creative identity and cultural significance in the heart of the Northern Rivers, as well as the challenges the region has faced in recent years. The event is designed not only to deliver a major live music moment, but to contribute meaningfully to the local economy and community.As part of this commitment, Groovin The Moo will partner with Our Kids as Official Charity Partner, donating $2 from every ticket sold.
“Our Kids is thrilled to be the charity of choice for this iconic Australian event that is coming to Lismore. Groovin The Moo is a major Australian music festival that is community-minded and family-oriented – a perfect match for Our Kids, which helps children and families stay local when needing medical care in the Northern Rivers.” said Rebekka Battista, Our Kids Fundraising Coordinator.
Groovin The Moo Lismore will take place at Oakes Oval, Widjabul/Wia-bal Country, from 11am to 10pm and will be an all-ages event. The artist line-up and on sale will be announced in the coming weeks.
EVENT DETAILS
Groovin The Moo Lismore
Oakes Oval, Widjabul/Wia-bal Country
9 May 2026
11am to 10pm
All ages
TICKET INFO
General Admission from $125 + BF
Cream Of The Crop VIP $190 + BF
Mini Moo’s (Under 12) free when accompanied by a ticket-holding parent or guardian
Ages 12–17 $90 + BF when accompanied by a ticket-holding parent or guardian
MobTix for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and Affordability tickets for select Concession Card holders available to request $90 + BF
Lismore Locals will have exclusive access to the ‘Homegrown Groovers’ presale, simply check ‘I’m a Lismore Local’ in the presale sign up form.
GROOVIN THE MOO: Website | Instagram
