Strummingbird Festival
The Sunshine Coast's biggest music event — multi-stage at Kawana Sports Precinct. Taking place on 18 October 2026 with a full lineup across multiple stages.
About the Festival
Strummingbird Festival has established itself as the Sunshine Coast's most exciting annual music event, drawing tens of thousands of music lovers to the natural amphitheatre of Bokarina Beach at Kawana. What began as a regional gathering has rapidly grown into one of Queensland's most anticipated outdoor festivals, with a headline act calibre that now rivals the nation's most established music events.
The 2026 edition features a lineup spanning multiple stages across the festival grounds. The Bokarina Beach setting is central to Strummingbird's identity — the ocean forms a dramatic natural backdrop to the main stage, the sea breeze keeps the festival grounds comfortable even at peak afternoon hours, and the Kawana waterfront precinct surrounding the site provides a natural extension of the festival atmosphere into the surrounding restaurants and bars.
The festival's programming reflects the Sunshine Coast's diverse character. Multiple stages host acts across genres — from headline pop and rock to emerging Australian artists, electronic music, and intimate acoustic performances. A dedicated family area with children's programming makes Strummingbird genuinely accessible for all ages, while a curated food and beverage village showcases Sunshine Coast producers alongside premium festival catering.
Festival logistics are well-considered, with shuttle services running from major Sunshine Coast accommodation hubs throughout the day and into the evening. The spring timing — typically October or November — delivers warm weather, quieter beaches than peak summer, and the perfect conditions for an outdoor coastal music event.
Top 10 Artists Playing in 2026
Strummingbird's 2026 Sunshine Coast bill spans country, folk and Australian acoustic acts across multiple stages. Here are the top 10 confirmed acts.
- 1Tyler Childers
- 2James Johnston
- 3Bailey Zimmerman
- 4Cooper Alan
- 5Stella Lefty
- 6Dexter & The Moonrocks
- 7Brad Cox
- 8Cam
- 9Cigarettes @ Sunset
- 10Kaitlin Butts
Festival-weekend accommodation across Mooloolaba, Kawana, and Caloundra fills quickly once the lineup is announced. Mooloolaba provides the widest range of options and is well-served by festival shuttles. Book as soon as the festival date is confirmed — demand spikes the moment the lineup is revealed.