The Valley Fiesta, which is now in its 24th year, originated as a celebration of the music venues and artists which make up Fortitude Valley.

About 150 Queensland artists have been announced including Jesswar, Beddy Rays, Saint Lane, Nerve, Nice Biscuit, and Hope D.

Singer-songwriter and recent Queensland Music Award winner Hope D said it is a welcome announcement for artists given the difficulties the live music industry has faced.

They said knowing that iconic events like Valley Fiesta were still pushing ahead in these times to give bands and music fans the chance to come together again, is exactly what we all need right now.

“We are so lucky to be at this stage (so to speak), and I can’t wait to be a part of such an incredible festival run by an incredible team for incredible artists to be enjoyed by incredible people,” she said.

The Festival will run across the Valley’s best venues including The Zoo, The Tivoli, The Triffid, Greaser, and more.

Valley Fiesta arrives during a difficult period for the live music industry, embattled by lockdowns and cancellations.

The Festival is partnered with QMusic, who have been vocal about the increased support required to stabilise the live music sector throughout the pandemic.

Valley Fiesta ran in 2020 indoors with seated audiences (Image: Dave Kan)

QMusic Chief Executive, Kris Stewart said they would forge ahead despite the challenges.

“It’s never been more challenging to plan and produce a live event, but we didn’t hesitate to continue Valley Fiesta’s legacy of putting homegrown heroes on homegrown stages,” Stewart said.

“Events like Valley Fiesta are absolutely critical to saving the music industry right now… for artists, venues, live gig fans and the future of Queensland culture.”

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner encouraged people to spend the Ekka long weekend supporting the live music industry.  

“There is no better way to revive our embattled music industry than to ensure the show goes on and Valley Fiesta will be a shot in the arm for our beloved music venues and artists who have lost their livelihoods due to snap lockdowns and restrictions,” he said.

“This year, the fiesta will fall on the rescheduled Ekka Friday long weekend, I want to see as many people as possible dedicate their long weekend to supporting our local live music industry.

“The Valley’s Brunswick Mall will also transform into a Music Marketplace on Saturday 30 October, with vinyl swaps, vintage clothing, and pop-up DJs.”

Valley Fiesta will run from Thursday 28 October to Saturday 30 October, with the full lineup on their website.