NYE On The Hill. credit: https://www.nyeonthehill.com.au
Introduction:
As the world gears up to bid farewell to 2024, music lovers, nature enthusiasts, and festival-goers from across Australia and beyond will gather in one of the most enchanting locations in Victoria. NYE on the Hill is not just another music festival—it’s an immersive experience, a celebration of community, music, and the natural world. Held in the picturesque rolling hills of South Gippsland, this boutique festival has built a reputation for being an unforgettable way to ring in the new year.
Scheduled from December 30, 2024, to January 1, 2025, NYE on the Hill brings together a carefully curated lineup of over 30 musicians and bands, all set to perform amidst breathtaking views, majestic sunsets, and the serenity of a camping festival. The limited capacity of 3,000 attendees ensures that the atmosphere is personal, intimate, and brimming with positive energy.
Whether you’re drawn to the indie sounds of Mallrat, the upbeat anthems of Hockey Dad, or the vibrant folk vibes of The Dreggs, there’s something for everyone at this festival. But what truly makes NYE on the Hill special isn’t just the lineup—it’s the community spirit, the connection to the land, and the way the festival weaves together music, nature, and human connection.
As we step into 2025, there’s no better way to celebrate than with friends, old and new, under the stars, with incredible live performances and the shared joy of a festival experience like no other.
1. Festival Overview:
Location & Setting:
Nestled in the stunning hills of South Gippsland, Victoria, NYE on the Hill offers a breathtaking backdrop for an unforgettable New Year’s celebration. The festival site is surrounded by lush landscapes, sprawling fields, and rolling hills that offer attendees a peaceful escape from the chaos of city life. The area is rich in natural beauty, with panoramic views that make the festival feel more like a nature retreat than just another music event.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | South Gippsland, Victoria |
| Atmosphere | Immersive, intimate, surrounded by rolling hills and natural beauty |
| Setting | Lush fields, expansive views, perfect for both relaxation and celebration |
The venue is designed to complement its surroundings, with camping areas thoughtfully positioned to give festival-goers the best views of the surrounding landscape, especially at sunset. Imagine gathering around with friends, music in the air, and the golden glow of the sun setting behind the hills—a truly magical setting for a New Year celebration.
Dates & Schedule:
NYE on the Hill spans three days, from December 30, 2024, to January 1, 2025. The festival kicks off on December 30th, giving attendees a full day of music, community, and celebration to ease into the event. As the days unfold, the festival builds to an epic climax on New Year’s Eve, with special performances, a countdown to midnight, and fireworks that light up the night sky.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| December 30, 2024 | Festival opens with live performances, camping begins |
| December 31, 2024 | New Year’s Eve celebrations, performances & fireworks |
| January 1, 2025 | Final day of performances and festivities, festival closes |
Each day brings a fresh slate of performances, activities, and opportunities to connect with others. The festival is organized with a balance of structured performances and free time to explore, camp, or relax. Daytime sets provide a laid-back vibe, while evening performances bring high energy, leading to the ultimate crescendo of celebration on New Year’s Eve.
Exclusivity:
One of the key selling points of NYE on the Hill is its exclusivity. With a capped attendance of 3,000 people, the festival has maintained an intimate, welcoming atmosphere that larger festivals often lose. This limited capacity ensures that everyone has space to enjoy the music, the camping experience, and the natural beauty without feeling overcrowded.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 3,000 attendees for an intimate experience |
| Atmosphere | Friendly, community-driven, fostering connections |
| Size | Boutique, personal festival experience |
This exclusivity fosters a sense of camaraderie among attendees, where strangers quickly become friends. The smaller crowd also means that each set and performance feels more personal, as festival-goers have the opportunity to be closer to the artists and create meaningful connections with others who share their love of music and the outdoors.
Community Spirit:
At the heart of NYE on the Hill is the sense of community. The festival places a strong emphasis on creating a welcoming and inclusive environment, where attendees of all backgrounds can come together to celebrate. From the friendly volunteers to the supportive crowd, the festival fosters a positive atmosphere where everyone is encouraged to be their authentic selves.
| Community Aspect | Focus |
|---|---|
| Inclusivity | All are welcome, creating a positive, respectful environment |
| Vibe | “Good vibes only” ethos, emphasis on kindness and respect |
| Connection | Attendees forge connections through shared experiences |
The festival is known for its “good vibes only” ethos, where respect, kindness, and positivity are celebrated above all else. This creates a relaxed and joyful environment where festival-goers can unwind, meet new people, and enjoy the music without the pressure of large crowds or excessive commercialization. Whether you’re new to the festival scene or a seasoned festival-goer, NYE on the Hill offers an experience where you can feel right at home.
2. Music Lineup:
The music lineup at NYE on the Hill is one of the biggest draws for attendees, and for good reason. With over 30 performers spanning a variety of genres, the festival promises to be a non-stop celebration of live music, energy, and talent. The 2024 lineup includes some of the most exciting acts in the Australian music scene, ensuring there’s something for every music lover.
Headliners:
The festival boasts a stellar lineup of headliners that will bring the energy to the hills of South Gippsland. Here are some of the top performers to look forward to:
| Artist | Genre | Performance Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Mallrat | Indie-pop / Hip-hop | Known for catchy tunes and introspective lyrics |
| Hockey Dad | Surf-rock | Energetic surf-rock anthems, great for dancing and fun vibes |
| The Dreggs | Folk / Acoustic | Laid-back vibes with heartfelt lyrics, perfect for relaxing |
| Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers | Indie Rock | Raw, fun performances, perfect for indie rock fans |
| Jack Botts | Folk / Acoustic | Laid-back acoustic sound, great for relaxation and reflection |
| Rum Jungle | Psychedelic Rock | Rich mix of psychedelic grooves, perfect for adventurous ears |
Genres & Diversity:
NYE on the Hill features a broad spectrum of musical genres, ensuring that all tastes are catered to. From the indie-pop sounds of Mallrat to the folk-infused acoustic performances of Jack Botts, the festival offers something for every kind of music fan. The lineup also embraces genres like rock, surf, psychedelic, and blues, reflecting the diversity of Australia’s live music scene.
This variety creates a dynamic atmosphere, with each performance offering something new and exciting. Whether you’re in the mood to dance, chill, or simply enjoy good music under the stars, you’ll find performances that resonate with your taste.
Emerging Artists:
In addition to big-name acts, NYE on the Hill is known for spotlighting up-and-coming talent. The festival is a platform for emerging artists to showcase their music and connect with new audiences. By supporting local talent, the festival ensures that each year brings fresh, exciting performances from artists you may not have heard of yet—but will likely follow after the festival.
Festival Atmosphere:
The live music at NYE on the Hill isn’t just about the performances themselves—it’s about the shared experience of being part of something bigger. The festival’s layout is designed to make the most of the natural surroundings, with stages set against the backdrop of the stunning hills. This creates an immersive experience where the music blends with the environment, creating a magical, harmonious atmosphere.