Dougstock Music Festival began in 2020 on a privately owned, spectacular property in the Willunga Hills. What started as a small and carefully curated gathering, pairing breathtaking views with Adelaide’s finest original music, has since evolved into one of South Australia’s most distinctive boutique music and camping events. Today, Dougstock blends an impressive lineup of artists with an artisan market, local food and wine, dance and wellness sessions, a dedicated kids’ zone, and a relaxed, community-driven atmosphere.
With its sixth instalment in December 2025, Dougstock has consistently showcased a remarkable spread of talent. Past lineups have featured ARIA Award-winning guitarist James Muller; Dweezil Zappa collaborator Chris Norton; rising Adelaide favourites Tonix; New York Blues Hall of Fame inductee Chris Finnen; jazz virtuoso and Ronnie Scott’s regular Carl Orr; award-winning vocalist Zkye Compson-Harris; neo-punk outfit The Empty Threats; and multi-instrumentalist and festival favourite Adam Page. The festival’s scope extends beyond South Australia, with standout interstate acts including Claire Anne Taylor (Tasmania), Jeb Cardwell Band and Hana & Jessie-Lee’s Bad Habits (Melbourne), and Key Grip (Canberra), all enriching the musical tapestry of Dougstock.
Collaboration and community have been fundamental to the festival’s growth. An ongoing partnership with Biodiversity McLaren Vale has enabled an ambitious ecological restoration project across the 300-acre festival site, ensuring Dougstock’s environmental footprint remains regenerative rather than extractive. Willunga-based artist Deborah Tapfield has become integral to the festival’s visual identity, with her stunning watercolour artworks featured across merchandise and promotional design.
Dougstock also maintains strong ties with the Elder Conservatorium, led by Dustan Cox and his students, who have performed in several festival ensembles. In a milestone for arts education, a 2024 performance of original music at Dougstock was formally included in the University of Adelaide’s music curriculum. The festival’s creative footprint expanded further through a partnership with Dragonfly Dreaming Festival and its founder Tric Tuckfield, whose expertise has enriched Dougstock’s markets, decorative elements, creature comforts, and programming – including the addition of a second stage.
Set against the rolling landscapes of the Fleurieu Peninsula, Dougstock Music Festival is a vibrant, all-ages celebration of artistry, connection, and place. The 2025 edition provided an unforgettable weekend of music, food, wine, and spectacular views, featuring internationally acclaimed percussionist Alexander Flood, WOMADelaide debut artist Ms Chipeta, the return of James Muller, the enigmatic Sons of ZÖKU and many more exceptional performers.