THURSDAY 26 – FRIDAY 27 FEBRUARY 2026
COME A DAY EARLY, AND DON’T MISS OUT
The beloved Fringe event returns as It Takes a Village transforms Cobargo into a hub of creativity and joy from Thursday afternoon—the perfect Festival taster before the main event kicks off.
Spreading the festival fun with music and art into the heart of Cobargo village, this free celebration offers something for everyone. This year brings something extra special: the inaugural Cobargo Heats of the Australian National Busking Championships (ANBC) on Thursday 26 February, with around 20 talented buskers showcasing their talents throughout the village from 10am–4pm, and winners announced at 6pm.
We’re thrilled to welcome 2025 NSW Young Folk Federation Artist and former busking champion Gabi Forman and the Wayward Pilgrims, alongside beloved regional artists Pete Wild, Pepper and Davies and the Southern Groove, Kate Burke, and Benji and the Saltwater Sound System. Emerging band Daisy Chain will make their Fringe debut, while the Bega District Band and Randy Dandy Shanties add their distinctive sounds to the mix.
Experience the power of choral harmony as Bega Valley Male Voice Choir and Riverbend Choir fill the School of Arts Hall, or catch intimate concerts at the Cobargo Pub, Valiant Coffee Van, and CoCo Living Room.
Art enthusiasts won’t want to miss Bethany Thurtell’s Faces of Cobargo exhibition at the RSL Hall, while bookworms can experience our new Meet the Author at Well Thumbed Books. From Question Time to Crime brings acclaimed crime writers Chris Hammer and Michael Brissenden into conversation with former ABC journalist Phil Williams—grab your signed copies afterward, but get in quick as seating is limited.
Between performances, wander through local shops, savour delicious food, and browse beautiful art and crafts. Best of all? Every event is free, generously funded by the Yuin Folk Club and our wonderful sponsors and supported by the Cobargo Folk Festival.
You won’t want to miss this unforgettable celebration!
Sponsored by CUB.
FLYER
PROGRAM
AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL BUSKING CHAMPIONSHIPS – COBARGO HEATS
This year brings something new: the inaugural Cobargo Heats of the Australian National Busking Championships (ANBC) on Thursday 26 February.
The Yuin Folk Club has partnered with the ANBC to bring this exciting competition to our village, joining eight regional festivals showcasing Australia’s vibrant street music culture to over 20,000 people annually. Around 20 talented buskers will showcase their talents throughout the village, with heats running from 10am–4pm at various venues. Winners will be announced at 6pm at the Cobargo Hotel, who then progress to the National Final.
CALLING ALL BUSKERS!
Are you a talented street performer ready to showcase your skills? We’re looking for approximately 20 buskers to participate in the inaugural Cobargo Heats. This is your chance to:
- Perform throughout the beautiful Cobargo village
- Compete for a place in the Australian National Busking Championships National Final
- Be part of Australia’s premier celebration of street music culture
- Perform in front of an enthusiastic, supportive audience
Competition Details:
Date: Thursday 26 February 2026
Heats: 10am–4pm at various village venues
Winners Announcement: 6pm at Cobargo Hotel
Prize: Progression to the National Final
Applications Close: All busking spots are filled. Applications are now closed.
Whether you’re a seasoned street performer or emerging artist, this is a fantastic opportunity to be part of something special in the heart of the Bega Valley.
Sponsored by the Yuin Folk Club, Cobargo Hotel, Bendigo Bank, Bega Group, Cobargo Show Society and Bermagui Country Club.
