Wingham is gearing up for a weekend of music and community spirit as hometown hero James Johnston is set to headline the Wingham Music Festival. A special three day event dedicated to flood recovery and community, taking place on November 21 - 23 at the Wingham Showground the festival will celebrate the strength of the community following the devastating floods earlier this year.

Currently on his Where You’ll Find Me Tour, fresh off the release of his second studio album of the same name, Johnston will make a return to his hometown of Wingham, which will no doubt be an emotional moment for both Johnston and the community that raised him. 

“I knew I wanted my first show back in my hometown to be something truly special. After everything this past year has thrown at this community, there’s no better reason to come together and celebrate how far we’ve come. I’m so proud to be a Wingham boy and seeing the way everyone stood shoulder to shoulder and rebuilt after the floods was truly inspiring. I know there’s going to be a little bit of magic in the air that night, and I’m honoured to stand on that stage and share it with every single one of you,” said Johnston.

Joining Johnston on stage will be an impressive lineup of Australian acts, including Backsliders, The Badloves, Bill Chambers, Hat Fitz and Cara, Round Mountain Girls, Blues Arcadia and more.

Johnston’s rise in Australian country music has been nothing short of remarkable. With over 134 million global streams, six #1 airplay singles and astonishing 118 consecutive weeks in the Top 20 on the Countrytown Hot 50 National Airplay Chart, he’s also had wins at the Golden Guitars and Countrytown Awards proving he’s become one of the genre’s most exciting modern voices. 

Festival Coordinator Donna Ballard said the event holds special meaning this year:

“This year’s Festival feels more meaningful than ever. Our community needs a celebration, and having James Johnston return home to headline makes it all the more special.”

The 2025 Wingham Music Festival invites visitors from across NSW and beyond to enjoy three days of world class music while supporting a region that is still rebuilding after the devastating floods in May, which saw over 50,000 residents evacuated and thousands of homes and businesses damaged across the Manning River catchment.

Proceeds from ticket sales will go directly toward local recovery efforts and local business chambers helping restore livelihoods and strengthen communities across the Mid Coast.

Wingham Music Festival 2025

Friday 21, Nov - Sunday 23, Nov

Wingham Showgrounds

Tickets on sale now: winghammusicfest.com.au