Bluesfest, one of Australia’s most iconic music festivals, has announced that it will come to an end after its 2025 event. The festival, which has been a staple of the Australian music scene since its inception in 1990, will take its final bow next year over the Easter weekend.

Originally known as the East Coast Annual Blues Festival, Bluesfest began in Byron Bay with headliners like Charlie Musselwhite and Canned Heat. Over the next three decades, it evolved from its blues roots into a diverse musical celebration, welcoming artists across all genres. From blues legends like BB King and Bob Dylan to modern icons like Kendrick Lamar and Mary J Blige, the festival has been a gathering place for music lovers from all walks of life.

Festival director Peter Noble reflected on the festival’s legacy, stating, "Bluesfest has been a labour of love, a celebration of music, community, and the resilient spirit of our fans."

Despite its success, Bluesfest has faced significant challenges in recent years, including the cancellation of its 2020 and 2021 events due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Noble confirmed that the 2025 event will go ahead, promising to make it an unforgettable farewell. The first lineup announcement is expected next week.