Lainey Wilson & Morgan Evans Lead Stacked Howlin’ Country Lineup

After a wildly successful sold-out debut, Howlin’ Country is set to make its highly anticipated return to Newcastle Foreshore in February 2026 and it’s bringing a lineup that’s louder and even bolder than before.

Returning on Saturday 14 February, Howlin’ Country 2026 is already shaping up to be a must-attend event for country fans across Australia, delivering a high-energy blend of local legends, breakout stars, and global heavy-hitters.

Topping the bill is Lainey Wilson, with her only Australian festival appearance for 2026. The country trailblazer has been riding a whirlwind few years with eight #1 hits, over 1 billion global streams, a cameo on Yellowstone and collabs with legends like Dolly Parton, Post Malone and Miranda Lambert, Wilson is the name on everyone’s lips in modern country music. 

Joining her is Newcastle’s own Morgan Evans, making his triumphant hometown return for the first time since 2023. A multi-platinum ARIA Award-winner, Evans’ career has skyrocketed since his early days in NSW with global hits like Kiss Somebody and Day Drunk earning him over 800 million streams and fans from Nashville to London. Known for his electrifying live shows, Evans’ return to the Foreshore is bound to be a full-circle moment and a big one.

Also on the 2026 lineup are US roots country band Flatland Cavalry, fresh off their 10-year anniversary and a run of #1s on Texas Country Radio. Known for their infectious energy and heartfelt songwriting, they’ve shared stages with everyone from Luke Combs to Willie Nelson and they are in hot demand.

They’ll be joined by Oklahoma-born singer-songwriter Kaitlin Butts, whose 2024 album Roadrunner! a dazzling, theatrical concept record inspired by the musical Oklahoma! earned critical acclaim for its fearless storytelling and genre-blending charm.

On the local front, the festival welcomes rising stars Adam Newling and Tyla Rodrigues. With his raw vocals and poetic lyricism, Newling continues to push the boundaries of alt-country, while Rodrigues brings a fresh take on classic country with a thoroughly modern twist.

Locally owned and operated, Howlin’ Country isn’t just another festival, it’s a homegrown celebration of community, music, and regional talent. As festival promoter Moe Matthew explains, it’s all about giving back.

“From day one, Howlin’ was built to support our local music scene, artists, and businesses. Each year we put a strong focus on showcasing homegrown talent, and having Adam Newling and Morgan Evans on the lineup this year really captures what Howlin’ is all about,” says Matthew. “We’ve still got more acts to announce, but this already feels like a day out in an awesome city you’ll want to bring the whole fam to.”

Presale signups are open now, with tickets officially on sale from 1pm Tuesday 12 August. 

Multiple ticket types are available to make Howlin’ 2026 fun and accessible for everyone:

HOWLIN’ PREMIUM: Best view in the house + exclusive bar, toilets & sweet treats from Crumb Bakery

HOWLIN’ HOTEL / VIP: 18+ only, with upgraded perks

YOUTH TICKETS: For 16–17 year olds attending solo

KIDS UNDER 16: Must attend with a guardian

KIDS UNDER 3: Free entry

HOWLIN’ COUNTRY 2026 — FIRST LINEUP

Saturday 14 February – Newcastle Foreshore, NSW
LAINEY WILSON (USA)
MORGAN EVANS
FLATLAND CAVALRY (USA)
KAITLIN BUTTS (USA)
ADAM NEWLING
TYLA RODRIGUES
CHEAP WHISKEY DJs
More artists still to be announced!

Howlin’ Country 2026 is shaping up to be one of the standout events of the Australian music calendar. If you missed out last year, don’t make the same mistake twice!