Night at the Barracks | Under the Stars Again

One of Sydney's most loved live music events is back. Night at the Barracks returns to North Head Sanctuary this September and October for its fifth consecutive season, and the 2026 line-up might just be its best yet. With international headliners, iconic Australian acts, and that incomparable open-air atmosphere against one of the most historic backdrops in the country, this is a night (or several) you won't want to miss.

The concert series kicks off on Friday 11 September and runs across four magical weekends, wrapping up on Saturday 3 October. Presented by Toyota, Night at the Barracks has built a loyal following on the Northern Beaches and beyond, and this year it raises the bar again.

Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Aloe Blacc opens the international acts on Saturday 12 September, making his first Sydney appearance in seven years as part of his Wake Me Up tour. Then on Saturday 26 September, Emmy-nominated powerhouse Ben Folds takes to the stage for his Ben Folds & A Piano tour, drawing from both his solo work and the much-loved Ben Folds Five catalogue.

The local line-up is nothing short of exceptional. ARIA award-winners The Temper Trap, indie-folk favourites Boy & Bear, and the legendary JET are all confirmed, alongside The Cruel Sea with Magic Dirt in a special celebration of the 30th anniversary of their double-platinum album, Three Legged Dog.

Dave Gleeson (of The Screaming Jets and The Angels) premieres his award-winning show Long Way to The Top on Sunday 13 September, brought to you by Triple M, with songs spanning AC/DC, INXS, Cold Chisel, Midnight Oil, and Powderfinger.

Dance fans are well catered for too. Sneaky Sound System featuring Connie Mitchell and DJ Angus McDonald play Saturday 19 September with guests The Potbelleez, while PNAU bring their electrifying live show to Manly on Friday 25 September, hot on the heels of their new album AHHCade. Both shows are unseated, dancing only.

Closing out the cultural highlights is Katie Noonan on Sunday 27 September, performing her critically acclaimed live show Jeff Buckley's Grace, following a sell-out national tour of over 25 shows.

The venue itself is part of the magic. North Head Sanctuary is a genuinely extraordinary setting, steeped in Australian history, surrounded by natural bushland, and perched above one of the world's great harbours. It is the kind of place that makes even a familiar song feel new.

Tickets go on general sale Wednesday 20 May at 9am AEST. Head to nightatthebarracks.com.au for the full line-up and to secure your seats before they go

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