Bluesfest is one of the most popular music festivals in Australia, attracting around 100,000 music lovers to Byron Bay each Easter. With big name acts across multiple stages, Bluesfest tickets are always in high demand.
If you’re looking to get tickets to Bluesfest, here’s everything you need to know about how the ticketing system works.
When do Bluesfest tickets go on sale?
Bluesfest tickets generally go on sale around October or November each year, once the festival lineup has been announced. The specific on-sale date varies each year.
Here are the recent Bluesfest ticket on-sale dates:
| Bluesfest Year | Ticket On-Sale Date |
| 2023 | October 2022 |
| 2022 | October 2021 |
| 2021 | October 2020 |
| 2020 | October 2019 |
Bluesfest generally announces the lineup and ticket on-sale a few months before the festival. This gives fans time to check out the acts and plan their festival experience.
Where can I buy Bluesfest tickets?
There are a few different ways to get your hands on Bluesfest tickets:
Official Bluesfest website
The main way to buy tickets is through the official Bluesfest website. This is the only way to get legit tickets directly from the festival organizers.
Tickets can be purchased online through the Bluesfest website once ticket sales open up. Buying online allows you to secure tickets from the comfort of your home.
Official ticket outlets
Bluesfest tickets are also available through some authorized ticket outlets. This includes:
- Moshtix
- Oztix
- Humanitix
These ticket providers sell Bluesfest tickets on behalf of the festival. Buying through them gives you peace of mind that you’re getting valid tickets.
Unofficial resellers
Some people also resell Bluesfest tickets through unofficial third party sites like Viagogo, Stubhub and eBay.
However it’s generally not recommended to buy from these unofficial resellers. There’s a risk you could be sold invalid or fraudulent tickets.
Ticket giveaways
Radio stations and media partners sometimes run competitions to give away free Bluesfest tickets. Keep an ear out around the ticket on-sale period for any ticket giveaways.
How much do Bluesfest tickets cost?
Bluesfest ticket prices vary depending on the type of ticket you purchase:
| Ticket Type | Price |
| Single Day Pass | $185 + fees |
| 5 Day Standard Pass | $345 + fees |
| 5 Day First Release Pass | $595 + fees |
A standard adult ticket starts from $185 for a single day pass. A full 5 day pass costs around $345. First release tickets offer earlier access to the lineup announcement and cost $595 for 5 days.
There are also concession ticket prices available for teens, children, students and seniors.
What’s included with a Bluesfest ticket?
A standard Bluesfest ticket gets you:
- Access to the festival grounds
- Access to all music stages
- Entry for the day/s listed on your ticket
Bluesfest has 6 main stages and other smaller stages across the festival site. Your ticket will get you into any of the festival’s stages across your ticketed days.
Some extra add-ons you can purchase during ticketing include:
- Camping pass – Allows camping onsite
- Parking pass – Onsite parking spot
- Bus pass – Return shuttle bus transport
Food, drinks and merchandise at Bluesfest are extra costs not included with the standard festival ticket.
Does Bluesfest sell out?
In recent years, Bluesfest has generally come close to selling out each year. While not technically a ‘sell out’, demand for Bluesfest tickets is extremely high.
To secure tickets it’s highly recommended to purchase as soon as tickets go on sale. Waiting too long risks missing out, as ticket availability reduces closer to the festival.
Here’s a look at recent Bluesfest ticket sell through rates:
| Bluesfest Year | Approx Sell Through |
| 2023 | Over 90% sold* |
| 2022 | Over 95% sold |
| 2021 | Over 90% sold |
| 2020 | Over 95% sold |
* As of October 2022 prior to festival
As you can see, the last few Bluesfests have sold over 90-95% of total tickets. So there is very limited availability left in the final weeks before the festival.
Can you get a refund or transfer a Bluesfest ticket?
Bluesfest has a no refund policy, except in exceptional circumstances. This includes:
- Event cancelled
- Significant event change
- Health reasons (with medical certificate)
An administration fee applies for any refunds approved outside of a full cancellation.
Ticket transfers are allowed in some cases. You can transfer a Bluesfest ticket by contacting the ticket provider and paying a transfer fee.
Can you buy Bluesfest tickets at the gate?
A very limited number of tickets may be available for purchase at the Bluesfest entry gates. These are generally single day tickets released on the day.
However it is not recommended to rely on gate ticket availability. Your best bet is purchasing an advance ticket online to guarantee your entry.
Top tips for buying Bluesfest tickets
Here are some handy tips for securing your Bluesfest tickets:
- Get in early – Purchase as soon as tickets are released to avoid missing out
- Buy officially – Only purchase through authorized sellers to ensure valid tickets
- Checkout fast – Have your payment details ready for a speedy checkout
- Buy together – Coordinate ticket purchases with friends you want to attend with
- Consider upgrades – Splurge on first release or VIP tickets for the best experience
Conclusion
With world-class music and chilled Byron Bay vibes, Bluesfest is one of Australia’s most iconic festivals. Following the tips above will help you secure tickets before they sell out.
The key is acting fast once tickets are released, as demand is extremely high. Bluesfest continues to offer an amazing Easter destination for music fans year after year.
