Summer by the river hits different – especially when the soundtrack is live, loud and echoing beneath centuries-old gums. The Riverboats Music Festival returns to Echuca-Moama from February 13–15, 2026, bringing three days of sunshine, soul and serious musical firepower to the banks of the Murray on Yorta Yorta country.
What started as a laid-back regional weekender has grown into one of Australia’s most cherished festivals, blending a single-stage intimacy with line-ups that rival the big city bills. This year, it’s bigger than ever.
Friday night kicks off with alt-folk newcomer Norwood, Brisbane psych-rockers Full Flower Moon Band and a headline blast from Baker Boy, the Yolngu superstar who turns any crowd into a dance floor.
Saturday loads up the energy – from The Wildlings, Queenie and Felicity Urquhart & Josh Cunningham to Arnhem Land favourites the Andrew Gurruwiwi Band and the new all-star project Bleak Squad. Then comes Emma Donovan’s soulful Take Me To The River, Cash Savage & The Last Drinks’ rock ‘n’ roll catharsis, and a closing set from Aussie legends The Living End.
Sunday winds things down with Daisy Kilbourne, The Counterfeit ft. Freya Josephine Hollick, Merpire, Paul Dempsey’s Shotgun Karaoke and a finale from the ever-spiritual Xavier Rudd.
MC Brian Nankervis returns with his trademark wit, and the beloved paddlesteamer shows aboard the PS Pevenseypromise another year of sold-out, river-cruising magic.
Accommodation across Echuca-Moama disappears fast, so plan ahead. Riverboats 2026 isn’t just a festival — it’s a summer ritual. Tickets at riverboatsmusic.com.au.
