Bluesfest Byron Bay has been cancelled at short notice, with a liquidator appointed to wind up the festival amid rising costs and weak ticket sales.

The 2026 lineup had included major acts such as Parkway Drive, Erykah Badu, The Wailers, Earth, Wind & Fire, Sublime, Counting Crows, The Black Crowes, and Buddy Guy.

Festival Director Peter Noble said the decision followed extensive consideration to maintain the standard expected by audiences, artists, and partners.

The Pogues were slated to perform to celebrate 40 years of their album Rum, Sodomy & the Lash, marking a notable moment in the festival’s history.

Details and updates are expected to continue through Bluesfest’s official site and other formal channels.

Fans reacted with disappointment on social media, raising concerns about refunds and communication from organizers.

Media outlets learned of the cancellation from artists and industry contacts rather than the organizers, prompting questions about communication and administration steps.

Organisers were expected to announce further details on refunds and provide an official confirmation.

Contact attempts with Bluesfest PR or Byron Bay Council did not yield immediate responses from Rolling Stone AU/NZ.

The lineup notes included The Pogues and Split Enz, highlighting their significance and timing in Bluesfest’s history.

Reports cited poor ticket sales as a factor, though the official statement cited a mix of cost pressures, demand, and uncertainties.

Refunds, if any, will depend on the liquidator’s assessment of debts and remaining funds, with outcomes often limited for unsecured creditors in insolvency.