In 2022, Inner West Council resolved to expand a community-led and live-music-focussed event program across the Inner West Local Government Area (LGA) that commenced in 2023, with 5 pilot projects receiving funding. This program model is based on the success of the Stanmore Music Festival delivered in Stanmore by local community members. This live music initiative focuses on events, developed and delivered by the community with support from IWC, that harness and promote the creative power of live music in the Inner West.
2026 Live Music Activations
2SER In Your Hood
Saturday 21 February, 1-6pm
Mort Bay Park, Birchgrove
Join your favourite community radio station 2SER for an inclusive, all-ages music event. With a picturesque Sydney Harbour backdrop, enjoy live performances from Toby Martin (Youth Group), Malaika Mfalme, Moussa Diakite and Julia Why? with the Departure Lounge DJs soundtracking between acts.
For more information, visit 2ser.com
Sham Fest
Saturday 21 February, 12-9pm & Sunday 22 February, 12-8pm
Petersham Bowling Club
A free weekend of live music, featuring Jack Ladder, Palms, Memory Motel, The Melodrones, Lucienne, and more. Expect line dancing, Finska, lawn bowls, a ‘Sculptures by the PBC’ recycled-material art competition, an outdoor pop-up bar on the green - plus live closed captioning for every act!
Muddy River Festival
Saturday 28 March, 2-7pm
Marrickville Golf Club
Get ready for an afternoon of music, colour and community at the Muddy River Festival - a free, family-friendly celebration of the Cooks River and its vibrant surrounding neighbourhoods.
Set beneath the towering gums of the iconic Marrickville Golf Course, this is not just a concert or a picnic, it’s a joyful riverside street-party. Enjoy an exciting line-up of local bands and creatives, meet local community groups, and learn about our precious river, its ecosystems and the wildlife it supports.
Whether you’re curious, creative or just here for the tunes, there’s something for everyone. Come for the music, stay for the adventure, and leave inspired to connect with and care for #ourbackyardriver.
For free registration, updates and merch, head to muddyriverfestival.com or @muddyriverfestival
GENERATE
Sunday 29 March, 10am - 5pm
Yeo Park, Ashfield
GENERATE Youth Music Festival celebrates youth talent from the Inner West with live music, markets and family-friendly activities.
For more information and free registration, head to https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1549630
Enquiries
For all enquiries about the Live Music Activation program, please contact events@innerwest.nsw.gov.au or call 02 9392 5259.
For individual community-led activations, please contact event organisers directly via the weblinks above.