Frankston’s Waterfront Festival is set to return to the Frankston Foreshore on 6 and 7 February 2026, with organisers promising a stronger focus on Australian performers and clearer on-site information to help people navigate the event.
Frankston City Council says the festival has received a $95,000 Australian Government investment through the Revive Live initiative, on top of Council’s major events funding. The money is intended to go directly towards performance fees for original, contemporary Australian artists, supporting a bigger mix of established and emerging acts across the weekend.
A key change this year is the addition of large LED screens on the main stage. Council says the screens will improve sightlines and be used to share real-time accessibility information, safety messaging and program updates during the festival.
Line-up: indie, singer-songwriters and dance favourites
The 2026 program includes Hockey Dad, Jack Botts and Gordi, alongside a broader bill featuring Sunshine and Disco Faith Choir, John Course, The Gnomes, Cool Out Sun, Sunday Lemonade, Ruby Mae, DJ Cooper Smith and Sundance.
Council has also highlighted John Course as a long-running favourite with strong ties to the local scene.
Accessibility focus linked to wider summer program
Council is framing the accessibility upgrades as part of a broader push around inclusive access on the foreshore this summer, including the “Australia’s Most Accessible Beach” pilot at Frankston Beach.
What people can expect
The Waterfront Festival remains free, and Council says it typically attracts more than 40,000 people each year. Alongside the music program, the event is expected to include food and drink options, market stalls and family activities across the foreshore precinct.
Key details
- When: Friday 6 February and Saturday 7 February 2026
- Where: Frankston Foreshore
- Entry: Free
