BLUESFEST TAKES OVER BYRON BAY
Whether Blues ‘n’ Roots is your forte or not, you will not want to miss the Bluesfest in Byron Bay from April 17-21. Get ready for a bandana-clad John Mayer, chill-king Jack Johnson, The Doobie Brothers, India.Arie, The Dave Matthews Band, John Butler Trio and even Elvis Costello – to name an absolute but seductive few.
A once in a lifetime opportunity PEARL-ers, see www.bluesfest.com.au for details.
BUDDAH’S DAY
From April 26-27 Federation Square will be awash with celebratory feasts, performances, ceremonies and workshops all in honour of Sakyamuni Buddha – the founder of Buddism. Whether or not you practice the faith, it is sure to be an enlightening and enriching experience for the entire family.
See www.buddahday.org.au for more details.
CROONERS UNITE
From May 30-June 8 immerse yourself in Melbourne’s International Jazz festival and get in touch with your inner crooner. Over 100 local and international acts will perform at notable venues across Melbourne, including the ‘unique’ Bennett’s Lane Jazz Club and CUB Malthouse.
See www.melbournejazz.com for artist line-ups and performance schedules.
LIKE WINE?
What is better than a festival that sells wine? A festival of wine. On April 20, over 20 wine-makers will unite at the Strategem Bendigo Winemakers Festival and showcase their finest Pinots, Shiraz’s and Cabernets – all in a serene Botanical Gardens setting.
Music, cuisine and entertainment are provided, see www.bendigowine.org.au for details.
MORE ARTISTS TO GROVE WITH
Those lucky patrons heading to Bendigo’s sold out Groovin’ the Moo Festival on May 3 are in for a treat. Triple J have announced that six more acts, discovered during their revered Unearthed competition, will be joining the phenomenal line-up, performing alongside Vance Joy, The Jezabels, Architecture in Helsinki, Violent Soho and many more.
See www.gtm.net.au for more details.
SPLENDOUR RUMOURS IN FULL FORCE
An undeniable favourite, the Splendour in the Grass festival is a must do for avid festival-ites. Although no artists have yet to be confirmed, London Grammar, Outkast and even Kanye West have been suggested to headline the July 29-31 event.
Watch this space PEARL-ers or check out www.splendourinthegrass.com for more details.
THE ST. KILDA FLICKS
Said to be one of the oldest and largest short film festivals, the St. Kilda Film Festival kicks of May 22 to 31. Showcasing hundreds of ‘short flicks’, including a myriad of different themes and unique perspectives on life, the St. Kilda Film Festival is a fantastic opportunity for unrecognised Australian talent.
See www.stkildafilmfestival.com.au for program details.
HEIDI BOND