Community
1 December, 2025
Festival of Outback Skies eyes bigger, better 2026
The three-day festival in Hughenden will return from May 1 to 3.
Tickets to the 2026 Hughenden Festival of Outback Skies go on sale today, with organisers unveiling major new funding, programming and community partnerships that will elevate one of Outback Queensland’s fastest-growing events.
Flinders Shire Council confirmed the three-day festival will return from May 1 to 3, again bringing arts, culture and community together under the vast western skies.
The announcement comes as the event celebrates a major milestone, securing Bronze in the QTIC State Tourism Awards in the Festivals & Events category after entering for the first time.
Mayor Kate Peddle said placing behind two long-established events – the Abbey Medieval Festival and Rockynats – was an achievement the whole region could be proud of.
“To be recognised among Queensland’s best events in our first year entering is an outstanding achievement,” she said.
“This Bronze award is a testament to our community, volunteers, partners, and the unique experience we offer here in Hughenden.”
Tickets for the 2026 festival will be available from today, giving visitors months to lock in travel to Hughenden for an event that continues to grow in scale and reputation.
The festival has also secured a major boost through Tourism and Events Queensland's Homegrown Destination Events Fund.
Cr Peddle said the Homegrown funding would help the festival strengthen its foundations while supporting cultural leadership and local skills.
“We are delighted with this recent announcement of Homegrown funding, which demonstrates the Queensland government’s strong commitment to regional events,” she said.
“Importantly, it provides a solid financial base for festival planning and operations while also ensuring skills, knowledge, and cultural traditions are passed on locally.”
She said growing community involvement had been key to the festival’s success so far.
“The support and enthusiasm of our community has been instrumental in developing the new festival sub-group structure, and we want to thank everyone who has contributed ideas and energy so far. It is this sense of ownership and pride that will make next year’s festival our best yet.”
As part of the 2026 program, the Hughenden Bull Ride will return with an expanded format. Previously an opening-night favourite, the event will now include bronc riding alongside the bull ride, further celebrating the region’s strong country identity.
The council also acknowledged the volunteers who have driven the festival’s rapid growth.
“This festival truly belongs to the community, and it’s inspiring to see the ownership and creativity from our hardworking and passionate volunteers,” Cr Peddle said.
“Their dedication fills me with great excitement for what next year’s events will bring.”