Battle of the Bands

Kick off the festival weekend with the Waterview Winter Music Festival Battle of the Bands, where emerging and regional artists take the stage to perform in front of a live festival audience.

Held on Friday night from 6:00pm – 10:00pm, this showcase gives artists the chance to share their music, energy and stage presence in a relaxed outdoor festival setting at Baffle Creek Retreat.

The Battle of the Bands is designed to highlight new talent while creating an exciting start to the weekend. Each act will perform a short live set, with performances considered on musicianship, originality, audience connection and overall stage presence.

There will be two winners selected:

• Best Band

• Best Solo/Duo Act

Both winners will receive a paid featured performance slot during the main festival program, performing alongside established artists across the weekend.

With space for up to 12 acts, this is a great opportunity for local and upcoming artists to be part of the festival — so get in early to secure your spot.

Whether you're a blues band, rock group, roots act, or something in between, this is your chance to perform in front of a supportive festival crowd and be part of the Waterview Winter Music Festival experience.

Participation in the Battle of the Bands is offered in exchange for complimentary festival tickets for performing artists, allowing you to enjoy the full festival weekend while being part of the opening night lineup.

Who Can Apply

We welcome applications from:

• Emerging bands
• Solo artists and duos
• Regional artists
• Rock, blues, roots, and related genres
• Acts ready to perform live in a festival environment

Applicants must be available to perform on Friday night of the festival weekend.

How to Apply

Bands and artists wishing to take part must complete the application form below.

Please include links to your music and provide the required technical details so our production team can plan the event schedule.

Applications are now open, with limited spaces available.

Open Mic

Alongside the Battle of the Bands, the festival will also host an Open Mic session on Friday from 4:00pm – 6:00pm.

Festival attendees — including solo performers, duos and musicians — can add their name to the Open Mic sign-up board on the day and take part in the evening’s music program.

This is a great opportunity to jump on stage, share your music and be part of the opening night atmosphere.

Be Part of the Festival

The Battle of the Bands is about celebrating live music, discovering new artists and creating a vibrant start to the festival weekend.

We look forward to hearing your music.