After a lengthy seven-year absence from the Australian festival circuit, Rolling Loud is set to make an electrifying return in March 2026, with Atlanta rap star Gunna confirmed as the headline act for both events. The renowned hip-hop festival will host two consecutive one-day showcases, landing first at Sydney‘s Centennial Park on March 7 before moving to Melbourne‘s Flemington Racecourse on March 8, marking the festival’s expansion beyond its original Australian location.
The 2026 edition represents a significant evolution from Rolling Loud’s 2019 Australian debut, which featured artists like Future, Playboi Carti, Rae Sremmurd, and a then-emerging Kid LAROI. This time, organizers are promising an elevated experience with enhanced on-site amenities alongside the “epic performances” that have become synonymous with the Rolling Loud brand worldwide. Co-founders Matt Zingler and Tariq Cherif expressed their enthusiasm about returning to Australia, specifically mentioning the unforgettable energy they experienced in Sydney during their previous visit.
Gunna’s selection as headliner for both dates underscores the festival’s commitment to securing top-tier contemporary hip-hop talent. The Atlanta rapper’s consecutive performances are expected to generate substantial interest from both dedicated fans and casual attendees, cementing Rolling Loud’s position as Australia’s “ultimate home for hip-hop.” Fans can anticipate the complete lineup with additional international and Australian artists to be announced in the coming weeks.
The festival’s return comes through a partnership with local promoter Primuse Entertainment, who will help integrate international acts with prominent Australian artists on the lineup. For performing artists, events like Rolling Loud provide crucial live performance revenue that has become increasingly important in today’s music economy. Additional performers will be announced in the coming weeks through Rolling Loud’s official channels.
Eager fans can secure their spots beginning October 23, 2025, when presale tickets become available at 8 a.m. local time through the festival’s website. Standard ticket sales will follow, with organizers anticipating high demand for what promises to be one of 2026’s premier music events. The festival is expected to capitalize on strategic social media advertising to build anticipation and drive ticket sales across both Australian cities.
This Australian comeback follows Rolling Loud’s continued global expansion, including recent successful festivals in California and Mumbai. The dual-city approach demonstrates the organization’s strategic market engagement and recognition of Australia’s strong appetite for hip-hop culture, bringing the genre’s biggest international stars to audiences Down Under after a prolonged absence.
