The Mid North’s much-loved festival earns dual nominations and gears up to reveal its 2026 line-up
The tiny Mid North town of Caltowie is hitting all the right notes this year, with the Caltowie Chilled Out ‘n’ Fired Up Music Festival (COFU) having been named a finalist in the 2025 South Australian Music Awards. Recognised in not one but two major categories – Best Regional Music Venue, Festival or Event and Best Small Festival – this is a massive recognition for a volunteer-run event that’s become a highlight of South Australia’s live music calendar.
Presented by Music SA, the South Australian Music Awards celebrate the best of the state’s live music scene – from festivals and venues to artists, producers, and promoters who keep the industry thriving. This year’s finalists include big names like WOMADelaide, Spin Off, One Electric Day, Handpicked Festival, and Adelaide Guitar Festival, alongside regional favourites such as A Day on the Green at Seppeltsfield, UneARTh Whyalla, and Caltowie COFU, who are proudly flying the flag for the Mid North.
For a town with a population of around 50, that’s no small feat. Each March, this paddock-turned-party brings nearly a thousand festivalgoers together for a full day of live music, camping, good food, and local brews. It’s an event with heart, built on volunteers, community spirit, and a shared love of original South Australian music.
Festival Director Ben Van Boekel says the team couldn’t be prouder.
“We’re absolutely stoked to be recognised alongside so many incredible events and festivals that make SA’s live music scene so special. A huge thank you to our amazing crew, artists, partners, and of course YOU – our COFU family – for keeping the fire alive.”
Early bird tickets and line-up reveal
Adding to the excitement, early bird tickets for Caltowie COFU 2026 go on sale on Wednesday, October 15, with the Part 1 line-up reveal dropping the same day.
If the 2025 festival is anything to go by – headlined by The Superjesus and featuring fan favourites Molly Rocket, Oliver Goss Band, Dojo Rise, Fridge Junkies, and Lickity Split – next year’s event is set to be another powerhouse mix of original acts and regional talent.
Over the years, COFU has hosted 54 live bands, with over 80% from South Australia and 13 artists from within 100km of Caltowie. More than 35 local volunteers help bring it all to life, and a portion of every ticket sold supports Lifeline, raising awareness and funds for mental health.
Caltowie Chilled Out ‘n’ Fired Up Music Festival
When: Saturday March 21, 2026
Where: Caltowie Memorial Oval
Tickets: Early bird tickets on sale October 15 via www.caltowiecofu.com
The 2025 South Australian Music Awards ceremony will be held on Monday October 28, at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre Theatre. Tickets are available now via Moshtix.
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