If you were on the fence about attending the Howlin’ Country festival in Mulubinba/Newcastle next month, let me twist your arm. It’s just gotten even cooler, with Alabama’s Kashus Culpepper, Aussie favourites Paul Dempsey’s Shotgun Karaoke, Sweet Talk, The Wet Whistles, Lewis Love, and local legends Grand Pricks and Sharnee Fenwick just added to the bill. That’s in addition to the already announced talents of Lainey Wilson, Morgan Evans, Kaitlin Butts, Flatland Cavalry, Adam Newling, and Tyla Rodrigues. Yes, this lineup is absolutely stacked. Visit the Howlin’ Country website to see all the set times.
The music is the main attraction, but it’s not all that’s on offer. Since this year’s festival lands on Valentine’s Day, the Love Truck will be selling roses, Lil’ Howlers will have handmade love and friendship bracelets, and Ladies Love Country will host some speed dating. Traveller Whiskey will offer samples of Chris Stapleton’s spirits and Tooheys will sponsor the bungee run. The Lil Howlers kids zone has free face painting, a jumping castle, and heaps more for the little ones.
Howlin’ Country hits Newcastle Foreshore on February 14. The long-range forecast says we can expect a perfect day with highs in the mid 20s, so what better way to spend it? Tickets are still available from Oztix, but with the new additions to the lineup don’t expect them to last too long.
Photo credit: Dan Boud