dailyloe.com – Ballarat, Victoria, is set to host the Strummingbird festival on October 10, 2026. This festival marks Ballarat as the sole Victorian host for this significant country music event. The festival aims to attract approximately 30,000 visitors, boosting the local economy.
Strummingbird is a one-day ‘modern country’ festival taking place in Victoria Park. Organised by the team behind the Spilt Milk festival, it will showcase local and international artists. Post Malone, an American headliner, is scheduled to perform, returning to Ballarat after his appearance at Spilt Milk in 2023.
The festival will feature a range of performances, including modern country hits, country-themed DJ sets, and line-dancing. Country music has seen a dramatic rise in popularity, especially among Gen Z listeners. Mayor Tracey Hargreaves highlighted the event’s importance for Ballarat, stating it enhances the city’s reputation as a major event destination.
Hargreaves said, ‘As the only event in Victoria, we expect visitors to travel from all around the state to attend this event.’ The expected influx of attendees is projected to generate between $6 million and $9 million for the local economy during the event weekend. However, concerns persist regarding the capacity to accommodate 30,000 people in one day.
Ballarat aims to replicate the success of previous festivals like Spilt Milk, although larger events have previously strained local accommodation resources. As preparations for Strummingbird continue, the city is focused on ensuring a successful event.
