The Best Byron Bay Events in 2026 Across The Region
Danielle Read
Contributor | Urban List
As the milder months roll on, 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 In 2026 At A Glance
What's On July
Momentum
Lismore Skate Park
Australia's first all-female skateboarding competition comes to Lismore this July. A solid celebration of women and girls in skateboarding, Momentum kicks off at the widely applauded Lismore Skate Park. Some of Australis's best skaters will battle out in competitions over two massive days.
There's over $10,000 in cash and prizes up for grabs. And the organised bowl jam layout means there'll be heaps of impressive tricks and grinds happening at the same time. Meaning ample impressive stuff to watch on with awe. At this point, light showers are expected. To pack an umbrella, a poncho or simply embrace the cool down at this heated event.
THE DETAILS
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
Splendour Glory Festival At The Bruns
Hotel Brunswick, 4 Mullumbimbi St, Brunswick Heads NSW 2483
The nostalgia of Splendour in the Grass is headed directly to Brunswick Heads, this July. A star in the region's history, there's a full day celebration set to kick off on the shores of Bruns.
Remember Splendour festival sees a rare double-stage setup at Brunswick Hotel where its iconic venue comes alive in true mini-fest form. Those waiting with baited breath for the reunion of Peach Fur are in luck. Across one massive day, the likes of Beddy Rays, Vanilla Gorilla and local Ella Fence will take to the stage. There's a lively mix of indie rock, surf, psych and acoustic melodies to rock out to. At time of writing, there's only final release tickets left. Head over fast.
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
Top Dog Film Festival
Brunswick Picture House, 30 Fingal St, Brunswick Heads NSW 2483
THE DETAILS
C.W. Stoneking at Brunswick Hotel
Hotel Brunswick, 4 Mullumbimbi St, Brunswick Heads NSW 2483
THE DETAILS
What's On September
Sample Food Festival
Bangalow Showgrounds, 1 Market St, Bangalow NSW 2479
To sink your fork into the finest produce of the region, head directly to the annual Sample Food Festival. It's the Northern Rivers' answer to live cooking demos, foodie competitions and a solid lineup of supreme producers.
Kids cooking workshops kick off at 10am, there are foraging and fermenting how-tos, and hang around for the spritz masterclass and tasting with Eddie from Brookie's Gin in the arvo. In the tasting tent there's a whole lot of swill to sip through, including Stone & Wood Radlers. Basically it's one massive field filled to the brim with local icons. Think Balcony Bar and Oyster Co. dishing out $10 oysters, Mabel Bakery dishing out pastries, and $5 slices from none other than Byron Homemade Pizza. Get amongst it.
THE DETAILS
When: Saturday 19 September, 2026
Where: Bangalow Showgrounds, 1 Market St, Bangalow NSW 2479
For more info, click here
What's On October
Byron Bay International Film Festival
Various locations
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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