CresFest reveals stellar 2027 line-up featuring Bustamento, The Spooky Men’s Chorale and Stiff Gins.
Creswick’s much-loved folk and roots music festival, CresFest, has unveiled an exciting first wave of artists for its 2027 edition, bringing together acclaimed Australian performers, international folk traditions, powerful storytelling and infectious rhythms.
Public tickets go on sale Sunday 1 November for three days of exceptional live music, intimate performances and small-town festival magic in Creswick, Victoria.
Returning from 2–4 April 2027, the three-day festival will transform the historic Goldfields town into a vibrant celebration of music and community, with public tickets going on sale 1 November.
Leading the announcement is Bustamento, the high-energy calypso-reggae ensemble fronted by four-time ARIA Award winner Nicky Bomba. Known for their irresistible Caribbean rhythms, brass and steel pans, the band promises a lively addition to the festival weekend.
They’ll be joined by the wonderfully unpredictable The Spooky Men’s Chorale, whose theatrical performances move effortlessly between breathtaking harmonies and absurd humour, and acclaimed First Nations duo Stiff Gins, renowned for their powerful voices, rich cultural storytelling and more than two decades of music-making.
Also featuring are celebrated singer-songwriter Ainslie Wills, electrifying blues, roots and soul outfit Checkerboard Lounge, and much-loved First Nations folk-pop duo Microwave Jenny.
For regional music lovers, the appearance of The Dead Salesmen Duo promises a particularly special homecoming. Formed in Ballarat in the late 1980s, the band developed a devoted following through its distinctive songwriting and dynamic performances. With public appearances now rare, their inclusion is sure to resonate with longtime fans across the Goldfields.
Judy Turner, President of CresFest, said the festival’s appeal extends well beyond its impressive line-up.
“Our aim has always been to create a festival where the music feels close and the town feels welcoming. You can hear exceptional artists in intimate venues, discover music you didn’t know you loved, and experience Creswick coming alive around you amid beautiful historic buildings.”
“The 2027 line-up captures exactly what we love about CresFest: extraordinary musicians, wonderful musical surprises and a genuine sense of community.”
The announced program reflects an impressive breadth of musical influences and traditions. Audiences can look forward to the soulful Fijian folk sounds of Andrea Kirwin, the dynamic vocal harmonies of Akasa, the Brazilian forró rhythms of Fuá da Tita, and the distinctive songwriting of Skyscraper Stan and Oskar Herbig.
International and traditional music also feature strongly, with Allison de Groot and Nic Gareiss bringing their remarkable interplay of banjo, percussive dance and traditional music, while Glasgow-based duo Roo & Neil will share their interpretations of Scottish folk.
Event CresFest 2027 — Creswick’s Folk & Roots Festival
Dates Friday 2 – Sunday 4 April 2027
Location Creswick, Victoria
Public ticket sales Sunday 1 November 2026
Tickets and information https://cresfest.com.au/tickets/
