Another major music festival has announced a hiatus for 2026, joining a growing list of Australian events taking a break. Fridayz Live, which in October brought superstars including Mariah Carey and Pitbull to cities across Australia, took to social media to announce there would be no event taking place this year.
Fridayz Live Pauses Until 2027
“Some things are worth waiting for,” a Facebook post read. “In recent years, we’ve stepped away from an annual schedule. After our 2025 series raised the bar, the goal was to return only when we could match that experience — and that is going to be in 2027.” The organisers added, “We can’t wait to show you what we’re working on when the time is right.”
Harvest Rock Also Takes a Break
The news comes after Adelaide’s Harvest Rock announced it would also not be returning this year. The event, heavily supported by the South Australian state government, returned last year after a year off in 2024 with a bill including The Strokes, Jelly Roll and Groove Armada. “We know this will be disappointing news to many of you, but good things take time,” a statement read. “We’re already working on future plans. We look forward to partying with you soon.”
Broader Festival Woes
Harvest Rock is produced by Secret Sounds, the promoters behind the seemingly defunct Splendour in the Grass festival, which took place in or near Byron Bay from 2001 to 2023. The long-running Bluesfest, also held in the Byron area, went into liquidation earlier this year, just weeks out from its traditional Easter long weekend slot. The cancellations reflect ongoing challenges in the Australian festival landscape, with rising costs and changing consumer habits impacting major events.
