The Best Byron Bay Events in 2026 Across The Region
Danielle Read
Contributor | Urban List
As the summer heat simmers, Byron Bay and its surrounding regions unlock a long lineup of noteworthy events to colour 2026 with. From indurance-testing competitions, and rich culture festivals to live music shows and township activations, there's something to see and do for every taste and interest.
Whether you're chasing a family-friendly festival to get everyone outdoors, or a place to feel utterly impressed by local talent, read on for the must-attend events happening across Byron/Arakwal Country and the Northern Rivers Region in 2026.
What's On At A Glance
What's On April
Rumble On The River
Lismore Skate Park, Uralba St, Lismore NSW 2480
Lismore's recently unveiled skatepark has become somewhat of a local legend. The design's noted as being one of the best since it's $4 million dollar CONVIC-designed layout features a mix of street and bowl sections,which caters to beginners to pros. This Lismore arm of the Rumble On The River event will feature some of Australia's best skateboarders. There's $20k in cash prizes up for grabs and it's honestly going to be an epic day. Pro-tip, there's limited shade at Lismore's skatepark, so consider packing a shade tent to lounge under while watching the action unfold.
THE DETAILS
When: Thursday 16-Sunday 19 April, 2026
Where: Lismore Skate Park, Uralba St, Lismore NSW 2480
For more info, click here
Byron Bay Triathlon
Various locations
THE DETAILS
What's On May
Jet At The Beach Hotel
Beach Hotel, Bay St, Byron Bay NSW 2481
Jet and The Beachy, name a more iconic duo. Giving Byron a kiss on the lips during their Rumblin' Regional Tour, Jet is set to play one of the most intimate gigs they've held in years. Their 2003 debut album Get Born remains high on many favourite lists, with Are You Gonna Be My Girl, Rollover DJ and Look What You've Done debuting here. Having returned from their 2025 US tour with Lenny Kravitz, and recently receiving hearty reviews from Rolling Stone, head along to this shining gig 25 years into Jet's time on the music scene.
THE DETAILS
When: Thursday 7 May, 2026
Where: Beach Hotel, Bay St, Byron Bay NSW 2481
For more info, click here
Groovin' The Moo
Oaks Oval, Lismore NSW 2480
The recent endings of both Blues Fest and Falls Fest were truly heart-breaking for the Northern Rivers, its venues, talent and local tourism sector. Though in 2026, Groovin' The Moo sets up smack bang in the middle of Lismore as the ultimate comeback. There's the option to camp, or even get a return shuttle to Byron Bay, Lennox Head, Casino or Ballina for a very fair $40. The star-spangled lineup features big names like Tones and I, Matt Corby and Baker Boy as well as Dope Lemon and The Chats, for starters. It'll be massive for the region and an unmissable mark in the calendar.
THE DETAILS
When: Saturday 9 May, 2026
Where: Oaks Oval, Lismore NSW 2480
For more info, click here
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What's On June
Lismore Lantern Parade
Lismore CBD
The streets of Lismore come alive every year for Lantern Parade, an award-winning festival that celebrates the Winter Solstice. That's code for the shortest day of the year. While its received it's fair share of frosty nights and wild weather, the community spirit in Northern Rivers' very heart is undeniable. In the leadup to the festival, find local lantern-making workshops and schoolyards transform into mini-making work zones.
The result? A wholesome after-dark parade and street food market closing with a fiery finale. There'll be a wearable arts gala and kidsfest too. Keep an eye out for the city centre's shop windows which transform to feature enchanted scenes. I've been going to this festival since I was a child and it never gets old.
THE DETAILS
When: Sunday 20 June 2026
Where: Lismore CBD, Lismore NSW 2480
For more info, click here
What's On July
Mullum Roots Festival
Various locations across Mullumbimby
Mullum Roots Festival delivers a major lineup of blues and roots artists this year. ARIA award winning duo Busby Marou bring their near hypnotic dynamic to the stage. While singer-songwriter Alex Lloyd brings his nostalgic hits like Amazing and Brand New Day to the lineup. While the secret headliner is still under wraps, there's a 20+ lineup of talent set to play at the festival and after a sold-out 2025, this year's set to soar.
Did you buy a Byron Blues Fest ticket? Email a screenshot to the Mullum Roots Fest crew by Easter Monday for a generous 20% discount to their event.
THE DETAILS
What's On August
Byron Bay Writers Festival
Various location
Celebrating 30 years, the Byron Bay Writers Festival has firmly cemented itself as a cultural inspiration tank for the Northern Rivers. Home to tents that spill with conversations, author readings, panel discussions and thought-provoking retellings of the inspiration behind the tale, it's an annual non-negotiable for many.
While previous years have faced muddy days on the Bangalow Showgrounds, 2026 sees the fest return to Byron across three big days. There'll be foreshore and town centre hubs which daypass ticket holders can freely walk between. Nabbing a coffee here and a slice of something tasty there of course. All in the name of supporting the many creators in the township of Byron Bay. Tickets go on sale in April.
THE DETAILS
What's On October
Byron Bay International Film Festival
For the 20th year, Byron Bay International Film Festival returns. Taking over cinema venues across the Northern Rivers, expect eight culture-rich days designed to inspire, enthrall and unravel new narratives. There'll be documentary premiers, award-winning debuts and cinematic captures of international acclaim. Set inside Palace, Byron Bay, Brunswick Picture House, Ballina Fair, Drill Hall and a selection of limited feature venues like Stone & Wood Brewery and Lismore's Starcourt Theatre, stay tuned for this year's official screening lineup.
THE DETAILS
When: Friday 16-Saturday 24 October, 2026
Where: Various locations, Byron Bay NSW 2481
For more info, click here
What's On January, 2027
Starlight Festival
Various locations
Beginning on a new moon, Starlight Festival has set their intentions for 2027's return. This annual festival is an immersive four day event has run four over 25 years and brings a holistic healing crowd to Bangalow. There are breathwork sessions, soundbaths and guided meditations through to yoga workshops, art therapy, healings and readings. Fully vegan and gluten free cuisine from True Nature Cafe fuel you throughout the event and its one that'll leave you counting down until the next one.
THE DETAILS
When: Thursday 7-Sunday 10 January, 2027
Where: Various locations, Bangalow NSW 2479
For more info, click here
Want more Byron Bay content? Check out:
- The Most Beautiful Airbnbs in Byron Bay
- The Best Things To Do In Byron Bay
- Byron's Best Bars and Pubs
Main image credit: DNSW Image Library | Supplied
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