Overview
When Splendour in the Grass made a comeback in 2022 after two pandemic-affected years, it was hugely anticipated. Due to wet weather and flooding, however, the event's big return sadly turned into Splendour in the Mud — Splendour in the Pool, too. That didn't work out well for the festival's 20th birthday, but organisers are hoping its 21st will be better, locking in July dates for its 2023 run.
Pop Friday, July 21–Sunday, July 23 in your calendar, and start searching for your gumboots now — while hopefully this year's fest won't be as boggy, sturdy footwear is always a Splendour must. As usual, the fest is returning to North Byron Bay Parklands for its latest big birthday party. If you're wondering who'll be on the bill, though, that hasn't yet been revealed.
Dave Kan
Pre-COVID-19, Splendour's lineups would start dropping between February and April, so expect further details soon. So far, the fest crew has advised that 2023's event will feature "the world's most prolific artists and national music treasures" if you want to start speculating.
Splendour's confirmed 2023 dates arrive a week after the festival crew issued an apology for 2022's event, stating that "Splendour in the Grass 2022 was, without a doubt the most challenging and difficult year ever... it was not what any of us wanted".
Claudia Ciapocha
"While we can't control the weather, we can manage how we respond and for that we are deeply sorry. We thank all of you who took the time to complete our survey and share your experience at Splendour 2022," the festival team continued.
"We want you to know we have listened to your feedback and we have acted from all that we learned. We continue to work furiously behind the scenes to make #SITG23 the sweetest, most comfortable and exciting music festival to date with the best experience possible for you, the local community and all who participate in the event."
Charlie Hardy
Ahead of the 2023 lineup announcement, Splendour Member applications are now open for guaranteed tickets in a dedicated presale. To qualify, you need to have purchased tickets and attended Splendour five times or more. And, if approved, you can buy up to four tickets.
If that's you, you've got until 5pm AEDT on Friday, March 10 to register.
Ian Laidlaw
Splendour in the Grass will take over North Byron Bay Parklands from Friday, July 21–Sunday, July 23, 2023. We'll update you with the lineup details when they're announced. For more information in the interim, head to the festival website.
Top image: Jess Gleeson.