WOMADelaide 2025 – Adelaide, South Australia

Event Dates:
Friday, March 7 – Monday, March 10, 2025

Event Location:
Botanic Park / Tainmuntilla, Adelaide, South Australia

Event Description:

WOMADelaide—the World Of Music, Arts & Dance—is Australia’s premier open-air festival celebrating global cultures through music, dance, visual arts, and thought-provoking discussions. Set in the lush surroundings of Adelaide’s Botanic Park / Tainmuntilla, the festival offers a unique blend of performances and experiences that foster cultural understanding and appreciation.

Event Highlights:

• Diverse Musical Acts: Featuring over 700 artists from 35 countries, the festival presents a rich tapestry of global sounds and rhythms.

• The Planet Talks: Engaging discussions on environmental and social issues with leading thinkers and activists.

• Taste the World: Culinary demonstrations where artists share recipes and stories from their homelands.

• Workshops & Street Theatre: Interactive sessions and performances that invite audience participation and cultural immersion.

Event Visitors:

WOMADelaide attracts a diverse audience, from local families to international travelers, all united by a shared curiosity and appreciation for global cultures. The festival’s inclusive atmosphere ensures that attendees of all ages and backgrounds feel welcome.

Event Systems:

• Stages: Multiple stages are strategically placed throughout the park, each equipped with state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems to enhance the performance experience.

• Amenities: Attendees can enjoy a variety of food and beverage options, merchandise stalls, and rest areas.

• Accessibility: The festival is committed to providing accessible facilities and services for all guests, including wheelchair-accessible pathways and viewing areas.

Artists:

Headliners and Notable Acts:

• PJ Harvey (UK): Returning to Australia after eight years, the Mercury Prize-winning artist headlined the festival’s opening night.

• Khruangbin (USA): The psychedelic trio closed the festival with a mesmerizing performance.

• Nils Frahm (Germany): Known for blending classical and electronic music, Frahm delivered a captivating set

• Mariza (Portugal): The fado superstar brought soulful melodies to the stage

• Goran Bregović & His Wedding & Funeral Band (Serbia): Delivered energetic Balkan rhythms that had the crowd dancing.

• Yemi Alade (Nigeria): The queen of Afropop made her Australian debut, electrifying the audience.

• 47SOUL (Palestine/Jordan): Returned to the festival, captivating attendees with their unique blend of traditional and electronic music

• Róisín Murphy (Ireland): Delivered a dynamic performance that blended electronic beats with theatrical flair.

• Digable Planets (USA): The 90s hip-hop trio reunited for a nostalgic and energetic set.

• Sun Ra Arkestra (USA): Brought their avant-garde jazz ensemble to the stage, mesmerizing the audience.

• Ngaiire (Papua New Guinea/Australia): Delivered a powerful performance blending soul and electronic music.

• Emily Wurramara (Australia): Shared heartfelt songs in both English and Anindilyakwa, connecting deeply with the audience.

• Queen Omega (Trinidad & Tobago): Brought reggae vibes and messages of empowerment.

• Duo Ruut (Estonia): Offered minimalist folk harmonies that captivated listeners.

• Amaru Tribe (Australia/Colombia): Fused traditional Latin American sounds with contemporary beats.

• Ana Carla Maza (Cuba/France): Delivered a fusion of classical cello with Cuban rhythms.

• Delgres (France/Guadeloupe): Presented a mix of blues and Caribbean influences.

• Ela Minus (Colombia): Blended pop and house music in a captivating set

• Etran de l’Aïr (Niger): Brought Saharan guitar music to the stage, enchanting the audience.

• Shabaka (UK): Delivered a powerful jazz performance that resonated deeply with attendees.

• Bangarra Dance Theatre (Australia): Presented “The Light Inside,” a moving dance piece celebrating Indigenous culture.

• Yoann Bourgeois Art Company (France): Performed “The Unreachable Suspension Point,” a mesmerizing acrobatic installation.

• Restless Dance Theatre (Australia): Showcased “Seeing Through Darkness,” a performance exploring perception and inclusion.

Note: This is a partial list. The full lineup includes over 700 artists from 35 countries

Tickets:

• General Admission: Single-day and four-day passes were available, with early bird pricing offered ahead of the event.

• VIP Passes: Provided exclusive amenities and viewing areas.

• Age Restriction: All ages were welcome, with free entry for children under 12.

Note: Tickets for the 2025 event have concluded. Future festival dates are scheduled for March 6–9, 2026.

Accommodations:

Adelaide offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Given the festival’s popularity, early booking is highly recommended.

Transportation:

• Public Transit: The festival site is accessible via Adelaide’s public transportation system, including buses and trams.

• Parking: Limited parking is available; attendees are encouraged to use public transit or rideshare services.

• Cycling: Bike racks are provided at various locations for those opting for eco-friendly transportation.

Additional Notes:

• Weather Considerations: Attendees experienced high temperatures during the 2025 festival; it’s advisable to prepare for sun exposure and stay hydrated.

• Health and Safety: Medical stations and security personnel were present throughout the festival grounds to ensure attendee safety and well-being.

• Sustainability Initiatives: WOMADelaide is committed to reducing its environmental impact, implementing recycling programs and encouraging sustainable practices among attendees.