Two decades of song, connection, and pure joy – Tasmania’s Festival of Voices returns as the beating heart of the season.
Tasmania’s winter skies are about to ring with the sound of pure joy as the Festival of Voices returns for its spectacular 20th anniversary edition.
From 27 June to 6 July, Hobart will transform into a vibrant hub of song and connection, with nearly 70 incredible ticketed events and more than 220+ free performances spanning world-class concerts, immersive workshops, and unforgettable community experiences.
This milestone year promises to be the Festival’s most exciting yet, blending two decades of singing excellence with fresh new voices and performances.
This is no ordinary off-season – it’s when voices rise together around the metaphorical fire of song, transforming the island into a radiant celebration of music and connection.
Since 2005, the Festival has defied winter’s chill with the undeniable warmth of shared singing, proving Tasmania’s coldest months can be its most vibrant.
Whether you’re a seasoned performer or simply love the thrill of singing along, here are the top irresistible reasons to join Australia’s biggest celebration of voice in 2025.
1. For Community Spirit: The Big Sing is a Singing Celebration
The Big Sing has grown into the Festival of Voices’ most iconic event – a roaring celebration of Tasmania’s winter spirit and an iconic Australian communal singing experience.
Friday, 27 June marks the start of the Festival and there’s no better way to kick it off than by joining thousands of voices in this free, all-ages singalong.
Whether you’re a seasoned performer or just love belting out a tune, this is where strangers become choir mates, and the simple joy of singing together transforms a chilly evening into something unforgettable.
Rug up, grab a hot drink, and settle in as local and interstate artists including Beccy Cole, Michelle Brasier, Salama, and John O’Hara, plus local legends Uncle Gus and the Rimshots and The Stranded Wailers, lead the crowd in an electrifying mix of songs– from nostalgic classics to uplifting anthems.
2. For Choir Lovers: World-Class Choral Experiences
As Australia’s leading singing Festival, the Festival of Voices brings together elite local, interstate and international choirs for breathtaking events.
One of this year’s standout events sees three world-renowned choirs unite for a single, unforgettable performance. Luminata Voices from New Zealand – last year’s World Choir Games female choir champions – will share the stage with Veus, a dynamic youth ensemble from Catalonia, and the ethereal Sjaella from Germany. It’s a rare opportunity to witness some of the finest vocal groups on the global stage in one place.
Closer to home, the festival showcases over 70 choirs from across Australia, including Tasmania’s own, performing everything from classical choral works to contemporary compositions. Highlights include performances by the acclaimed Gondwana Children’s Choir and a special collaboration between the Cairns-based choir and Tasmanian artist DENNI.
Whether you’re a seasoned choir aficionado or a first-time festivalgoer, the 2025 program features everything from classical masterpieces to contemporary vocal innovations.
Choir groups can also take advantage of special choir packages including tailored performances and networking opportunities.
3. For Aspiring Singers: Transformative Workshops
Hone your craft with hands-on workshops led by acclaimed vocal coaches and artists.
From songwriting, to celebrating Maloya dance and music, to talking with composers, to even cooking and singing in Welsh (!) a range of choir packages cater to all skill and interest levels. It’s a rare chance to learn from the best in a supportive, inspiring environment.
4. For Families: Free & Fun-Filled Events
With plenty of family-friendly programming like Teddies & Bin, Rhyme & Sing, or the Song Trivia and Community Singalong, it’s the perfect introduction to the magic of music while creating unforgettable memories.
5. For Music Fans: Stellar Concert Lineup
From intimate spoken word performance, world music celebrations, and grand choral spectacles, the Festival showcases an eclectic mix of genres and styles from across Tasmania, making this a must for any music lover.
Don’t miss performers like Vika and Linda Bull – which is a part of their national tour, jazz icon, Vince Jones, who is playing over in the garden, the Frankston Ladies Choir, Chantefique, and the Ukrainian Choir, plus many more.
Jazz aficionados, take note: Jones & Grebowsky. In 2015, jazz icon Vince Jones and piano maestro Paul Grabowsky dropped Provenance—a lush, ARIA-winning album. Nearly a decade on, they’re reuniting for a special Festival of Voices set.
6. For Team Building: The Corporate Choir Challenge
Looking for an innovative team-building activity? The Corporate Choir Challenge returns, inviting workplaces to bond through music.
No experience needed – just enthusiasm! It’s a fun, uplifting way to strengthen connections among colleagues while supporting a great cause.
7. For Social Singers: The Vibrant Singers’ Lounge
Make new friends and unwind at the end of each night during the Festival at the Singers’ Lounge, a dedicated space for casual mingling and impromptu jam sessions.
It’s the perfect spot to connect with fellow music lovers in a relaxed, creative atmosphere.
8. For Explorers: Surprise Pop-Up Performances
Discover spontaneous musical magic as choirs pop-up in unexpected places – from Salamanca Market to kunanyi’s slopes and cozy fireside lounges.
These surprise performances turn all of Tasmania into a stage, creating unforgettable moments of harmony around every corner.
9. For First-Timers: Accessible & Welcoming
New to singing? The festival’s inclusive atmosphere makes it easy to dive in. With beginner-friendly workshops, free events, and welcoming spaces like the Singers’ Lounge, there’s no barrier to joining the celebration.
10. For Everyone: A Winter Celebration Like No Other
There’s something magical about singing together during Tasmania’s winter. Against a backdrop of crisp air and stunning landscapes, the Festival creates warmth and connection through shared music. It’s an experience that stays with you long after the final note.
Join the Celebration
This year’s Festival of Voices promises to be its most memorable edition yet.
Whether you come for the world-class performances, the life-affirming workshops, or simply the electric joy of singing with thousands of others, you’ll leave with a full heart and melodies in your memory.
Tickets and full program details available here.
