8 Country music fans from across the Hunter and beyond are preparing to descend on Muswellbrook for one of the region’s biggest new festivals, with the 2026 Going Country event set to take over the Muswellbrook Showground on Saturday, 17 October. The all-day celebration of country music and rural culture promises a vibrant mix of live entertainment, family attractions, food, markets and authentic country experiences, creating what organisers describe as a true “country vibe and festival feel.” The event is being presented by the Muswellbrook Chamber of Commerce and Industry and is expected to attract visitors from across regional New South Wales. Held at the Muswellbrook Showground, the festival will run from 3pm until 10pm, with gates opening shortly before the action begins. Organisers say the event is designed to celebrate the spirit of country Australia while also showcasing the Upper Hunter region and its strong community culture. A major highlight of Going Country 2026 will be its impressive live music lineup, featuring a mix of emerging and established Australian country artists. Acts announced include The Wet Whistles, Katie Jayne, Nathan Lamont, The Collective and Saralyn. Television personality and entertainer Farmer Dave will serve as MC for the festival. Beyond the main stage, festivalgoers can expect a packed program of country-themed attractions and activities. The popular Show N Shine Going Country Ute Muster will offer more than $5,000 in prize money, while visitors can also test their skills on the mechanical bull, take part in line dancing, enjoy the bungee run and experience the “Outback Thunda” monster truck ride. The evening will conclude with a fireworks spectacular lighting up the Upper Hunter sky. Families are expected to make up a large portion of the crowd, with organisers promoting the event as a fun and welcoming experience for all ages. Food trucks, entertainment zones and exhibits celebrating country living will be spread across the showground throughout the day and evening. Tourism operators believe Going Country will provide a valuable economic boost for the region, with accommodation providers, cafés, pubs and local businesses expected to benefit from the influx of visitors. Destination marketing bodies have described the festival as an important addition to the Upper Hunter events calendar and a strong showcase for the Muswellbrook region. With country music continuing to surge in popularity across Australia, Going Country 2026 is shaping up as one of the standout regional events of the year — a celebration of music, community and the unmistakable spirit of the bush. GOING COUNTRY UPPER HUNTER STYLE Tickets available through Eventbrite.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI3ODI1