The Snowy Mountains’ Kesha Nevé won this year’s Australian Idol and will perform at Peak Festival. Photo: Channel Seven.
Is there a better way to kick off winter and the ski season than with a free music festival in Australia’s stunning Snowy Mountains?
Peak Festival, which will take place on the June long weekend (5 to 8 June) in the Perisher Valley, has dropped its 2026 line-up, which includes local musician-turned-recent Australian Idol winner Kesha Nevé.
From the eight-piece musical family FOOLS to the high-energy Tijuana Cartel and West African-inspired Jarabi Band in addition to trios, duos, singer-songwriters, DJs and more, there will be entertainment for everyone over the weekend.
“Peak Festival is where live music, snow and community all come together in the most incredible setting,” festival director and local businesswoman Belinda Shore said.
“Every year, the festival brings amazing energy to the mountains, with people moving between venues, discovering new artists and enjoying the fun atmosphere that makes the June long weekend in Perisher so special.
“The diversity of this year’s line-up is something we’re especially excited about; there’s truly something for everyone.”
Over three days, festival-goers can experience more than 75 performances in eight venues throughout Perisher Valley, featuring everything from folk, roots and acoustic music to indie, blues, world music and late-night party sets.
“The 2026 line-up celebrates the diversity of Australian live music culture, featuring emerging artists, festival favourites and nationally recognised performers sharing the stage across the weekend, including recent Australian Idol winner, our local Snowy Mountains star, Kesha Nevé,” Ms Shore said.
“And we are fostering new local talent, with our students performing on the Kids Stage and newcomers on the Open Mic Stage.”
There will, of course, be family-friendly entertainment, with children’s favourites Yabadoo returning with games, balloon twisting, magic, face painting, dress-ups and interactive fun.
Those attending the event can also see the Peak Festival Art Show, which spotlights local artists and draws art lovers from far and wide.
The performers will also include Alex Kosenko, Blackbird Hum, Charley Castle & The Boys in the Well, DJ Care Bear, Freddy Fingaz, Hussy Hicks, Irie Man, Jack Biilmann, Kalani, Kay Proudlove, Marshall & The Fro, Matty Rogers Band, Michael Fix, Nadia Sunde, Peak Village Choir, Pipin Trio, Rusty and Co, Shej, The Con Artists and TUGs.
The venues include the Smiggins, Man From Snowy River and Sundeck hotels.
A shuttle bus will operate between Smiggins and Perisher during the festival.
Peak Festival 2026 will be held from 5 to 8 June at Perisher Valley in NSW. All ages are welcome and entry is free to all venues. For more information on the event and to see the program, visit Peak Festival.
