We wish we could hit every single show at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, but let’s be real - there’s just too much amazing music happening to catch it all! Here are a few standout shows we think you should be adding to your diary.
1. Jake Banfield - Lasso Australian Tour
Wests Diggers - Saturday 17th Jan at 9:30pm
We could think of no better way to kick off your Tamworth Country Music Festival than with US breakout country star Jake Banfield. After landing his first #1 on Australian Country Radio in 2025 with his hit Lasso, this show promises a start to finish, non-stop party you can’t afford to miss.
Known for his infectious live energy and heart on his sleeve storytelling, Banfield is heading down under for his first-ever Australian tour and there was no way he was skipping Australia’s biggest country music hot spot.
Supported by our very own Bella Mackenzie this show will pack a punch.
2. Country At The Track
Golden Guitar Paceway - Friday 23rd Jan at 5:00pm
Get ready for Country at the Track, a brand new event at this year’s festival where country music meets country racing for the ultimate Friday night vibes. Expect live harness racing alongside a stacked lineup featuring Rachael Fahim, Nathan Lamont, Briana Dinsdale, Mack Geiger and Ethan Calway all in one high energy spectacle with FREE entry.
Now that’s too damn hot to pass up!
3. Her Sound, Her Story
Capitol Theatre - Thursday 22nd Jan at 7:30pm
Four women, four voices, one very special night. Her Sound, Her Story brings together Hayley Jensen, Taylor Moss, Tori Forsyth and Tyla Rodrigues for a stripped back, acoustic show filled with great songs and real stories. This first time showcase is all about celebrating the next wave of Australian women in country music, the influences, the inspiration, and the songs that got them here.
4. The Wolfe Brothers - Party at the Longyard
Longyard Hotel - Friday 23rd Jan at 4:00pm and 7:30pm
The Wolfe Brothers are back for their annual double-header at the legendary Longyard Hotel on Friday 23 January. Kick things off at 4pm with the Family Show, perfect for under 18s and then stick around for Party At The Longyard at 7:30pm, where the Wolfies turn the rowdiness all the way up and the roof comes off.
Joining them for both shows are rising duo Sons Of Atticus bringing humour, heart and raw talent to the stage.
With the Wolfies recently released album Australian Made and eight Golden Guitar nominations for 2026 awards, there is no better time to grab your tickets to a show.
5. Tyla Rodrigues
The Welders Dog - Wednesday 21st Jan at 1:00pm
One of Australia’s hottest rising stars, Tyla Rodrigues is stepping into first-ever headline ticketed show at Tamworth. Taking place at The Welders Dog, one of Tamworth’s not-so-hidden gems, this show will be extremely limited and your chance to catch Rodrigues up close and personal before she really takes off.
6. Toyota Star Maker Grand Final
Toyota Park - Sunday 18th January at 7:00pm
The night we find out who will be crowned the 46th Toyota Star Maker is nearly here! Each artist will get the chance to wow the crowd and impress the judges with two show-stopping performances. This career-making moment is one of the festivals’s biggest highlights and a must-see for all attendees.
The Top 10 finalists this year are Bryce Sainty, Jarrad Wrigley, Jaydin Shingleton, Jess Crossman, Josie, Liam Maihi, Mackenzie Lee, Mackenzie May, Ruby Jane and Sarah Catania.
Good luck to all the finalists!
7. Catherine Britt - Album Launch
Capitol Theatre - Thursday 22nd Jan at 2:30pm
Catherine Britt’s ninth studio album The Hardest Thing drops on Friday Jan 23, so if you want to be the first to hear the new tunes before they’re released into the world, this is a show you need to be at!
Supported by Pagan Newman (formerly from Darlinghurst) this will no doubt be an unfiltered and unapologetic evening to remember.
8. Wade Forster - Dying Breed Tour
Longyard Hotel - Monday 19th Jan at 3:00pm
Undoubtedly one of the biggest tours to roll through Tamworth this festival will be 2024 Toyota Star Maker Winner Wade Forster. Set to light up the Longyard after selling out shows across the country and the United States throughout last year.
One of the most exciting and authentic acts to come out of Australia, this Queensland cowboy has built a loyal following through grit and hard work.
9. Loren Ryan
The Press - Tuesday 20th Jan at 1:00pm
Loren Ryan is one of those artists who makes you stop mid-conversation and actually listen. Her witty songwriting and effortless vocals caught the attention of fans and judges as she was crowned the Toyota Star Maker winner in 2023.
Bringing a full band to The Press Basement Bar, you’ll be able to witness Ryan’s full throttle vocals and arena level energy in an intimate setting.
10. Americana In The Park
Toyota Park - Monday 19th Jan at 7:00pm
Americana is taking off in Australia, blending classic roots sounds with a uniquely alternative and sometimes Aussie twist. Americana In The Park, hosted by Andrew Swift, is your chance to soak up this growing scene in a relaxed, feel good setting.
Featuring performances from Lachlan Bryan and the Wildes, Riley Catherall, The High Street Drifters, Piper Butcher and Rusty Pickups this is a night you definitely don’t want to miss out on.
Tickets to all ticketed shows can be found at the TCMF website.
Countrytown brings you Australia’s best country music news, interviews, charts and more every week! This post was authored by Countrytown and originally published on the Countrytown website. It has been re-published with permission.
