Groovin the Moo Returns With One-Off Lismore Festival
The festival takes place in Lismore in May.
Image Jordan Munns
After being put out to pasture last year, regional festival Groovin The Moo is making a comeback in 2026 for a one-off festival on Saturday 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), Groovin The Moo 2026 is being presented as a single-show format with a single stage held on a single day as a way to slowly rebuild the beloved festival.
Groovin The Moo Lismore is an all-ages event that will take place at Oakes Oval, Widjabul/Wia-bal Country, from 11am to 10pm. The artist line-up and on-sale date will be announced in the coming weeks, while those super keen on securing tickets can sign up to the pre-sale here.
“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.”
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.”
Organisers chose Lismore as the city to host the returning Groovin the Moo due to “its enduring creative identity and cultural significance in the heart of the Northern Rivers,” with the event also aimed at helping the local economy and community.
Groovin the Moo has partnered with Our Kids, the official charity partner for the festival, and will donate $2 from every ticket sold to the organisation.
“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, on Saturday 9 May. The artist line-up and on-sale dates will be announced in the coming weeks, but you can sign up to the pre-sale waiting list here.
