Ironically taking place during a season where many other countries don’t even have living flora, Splendour in the Grass breathes epic life into the Australian winter.
Indeed, nature here might be Satan’s pets’ hangout, but it’s also where you’ll find a crazy mix of experiences ready to whisk you away to some unforgettable moments.
History
Splendour in the Grass (alias Splendour) is held annually at the the North Byron Parklands in New South Wales and various other locations near Byron Bay. The name of the event was drafted from a play, which was inspired by William Wordsworth’s book “Ode: Intimations of Immortality”.
While it originally started off in 2001 as a one-day morale booster during winter, it eventually lengthened into two and then three days. Finally it became Australia’s largest music fest, attracting around 50 000 people each day. It even won the National Live Music Awards in 2018.
Past Line-Ups
Up-and-coming Aussie musicians get a shot to show their stuff at the fest, while seasoned performers keep the event’s vibe strong. Lorde, Tame Impala, Arctic Monkeys, Kanye West, and Coldplay are only some of the big names that have shook-eth the stage in the past.
The 2023 line-up featured 77 artists that included Mumford & Sons, Sam Fender, MAY-A, Ball Park Music, and Tove Lo. The genres included indie rock, hip hop, electronic, and alternative, and a Spotify playlist is available to summarize the sonic experience.
Aside from Music
While Indie rock, hip-hop, electronic, and alternative sonic sensations await, many other delights are ripe for the taking in-between. Experience the potluck of global genres on Australia’s musical menu. Modern technology is intertwined with rap, melodic speaking, indigenous sounds and ancient ideas sparked anew.
The Global village caters for all tastes and interests and features literally anything conceivable. From tarot card readers to local designers and culinary kings, it’s all here. While in the Village, swing by the Bohemian Lounge for an unparalleled melting pot of performers, traditional dancers, unique workshops and more events that are designed to empower the future by drawing inspiration from the indigenous cultures.
Or feel the bone-shuddering bass at The Forest as underground and alternative beats sonic-boom through the space. The wild feeling of adventure is heightened by the visual pleasures by DJs and other performers. Together, they bring techno, psytrance, glitch hop and more back in full force to stimulate all your senses.
If you’re really looking to shake things up, duck into Trouble-san. Famous for a menu that mixes bold Japanese flavors with tempting cocktails, this restaurant’s a classic vibe with a naughty edge. Other eclectic experiences await at the Science Tent, Comedy Club, Splendour Arts, the Karaoke bar, Byron Bay Brewery, and more.
FAQ
Is the event cash-free?
Yes, Splendour is cashless so make sure to bring your cards.
What facilities will be available?
Aside from security, water refill stations, trained medical staff, phone charging stations, licensed bars, and information stations, other facilities are listed here.
Can I camp on-site?
Yes, subject to the purchase of a camping ticket (separate from the event ticket). Each ticket only counts for 1 person, even on the same camping spot. Read the Splendour in the Grass FAQ for more info on camping.
Is the event family friendly?
Yes, but attendees under 18 MUST be accompanied by a responsible adult ticket holder at all times during the festival. Their Youth Policy is available here. There are also private breastfeeding and nappy changing stations.
Can I volunteer or work at the festival?
Yes, to check when applications open up, visit their FAQ page and scroll down to the relevant section (nearly all the way down).
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