In partnership with Grill Mates and Stubb’s BBQ Sauce.
As the final notes rang out across the Byron Events Farm on Easter Sunday, Bluesfest 2025 cemented itself as one of the most memorable editions in the festival’s rich 35-year history. Across four sun-drenched days from April 17 to 20, over 80 acts delivered pure magic to thousands of music lovers — but it wasn’t just the music that had tongues wagging.
This year, the sweet, smoky scent of southern BBQ became an unofficial stage, thanks to a crowd-pleasing activation from Grill Mates and Stubb’s BBQ Sauce. The sizzling pop-up was impossible to miss (or resist), with festival-goers lining up for smoked beef briskets and barbecued chicken flavoured with Stubb’s sauces and Grill Mates seasonings. The combo of bold flavours and good vibes made the BBQ tent one of the most talked-about hangouts of the weekend — the unofficial meeting point for mates between sets and the perfect pairing for a cold one in hand.
Musically, Bluesfest 2025 delivered the goods in spades. From the legendary Chaka Khan’s soul-drenched set on Sunday night to the thunderous riffs of Tom Morello on Friday, there was no shortage of jaw-dropping moments. Crowded House returned home to a rapturous welcome, playing to a packed-out crowd who sang every lyric like gospel. Vance Joy, ever the crowd-pleaser, delivered a golden hour set that felt tailor-made for Byron’s balmy autumn air, while The Cat Empire brought their signature genre-blending energy to a sweaty, stomping dance floor.
Gary Clark Jr. was a standout, melting faces and hearts with a set that swung from blues to psychedelic rock to gospel, while local legends like CW Stoneking and King Stingray kept the Aussie roots strong and soulful.
The weather, too, came to the party — delivering that perfect Byron blend of warm days and cool, clear nights. It was gumboots-optional all weekend, with sunsets casting a golden glow over the hills and punters sprawled on picnic blankets, sipping local brews and soaking in the soundtrack.
But more than just a festival, Bluesfest has always been about community — and this year that spirit felt stronger than ever. Whether you were front row for your favourite artist, vibing in the dance tent, or swapping stories over pulled pork and coleslaw, there was an unmistakable feeling of connection and celebration.
And just as the last amps cooled down, organisers gave fans something else to cheer about: the announcement that Bluesfest will return in 2026. After a few turbulent years and whispers about the festival’s future, it’s official — the music (and BBQ) will play on.
