Mullum Music Festival: The Best Spots to Stay and Eat in Mullumbimby

There’s something truly magnetic about Mullumbimby in July. Every winter, this leafy hinterland town in Byron Shire transforms into a stage—where the laneways echo with live roots music, the cafes buzz with artists on their second long black, and the community pulses with creativity.

Mullum Music Festival 2025 is more than a festival—it’s an immersion. Whether you’re grooving at the Civic Hall, exploring psychedelic light shows, or sampling gourmet bites between sets, this weekend is pure magic. And if you’re wondering how to do it right—where to stay, what to pack, what to eat, and how to wind down—this guide has you covered, including why Broken Head Holiday Park is the perfect off-town sanctuary for your musical journey.

Get to Know the Festival That’s All About Heart

The Mullum Music Festival isn’t your average music event. Set in the lush hinterlands of northern NSW, Mullumbimby (affectionately dubbed “Mullum”) transforms into a festival village, with performances staged in quirky, character-filled venues: from old pubs and churches to school halls and street corners.

Founded in 2008, the festival has built a reputation for showcasing everything from indie folk and world beats to jazz, soul, and spoken word. Over the years, the festival has welcomed names like Mojo Juju, Lior, Katie Noonan, Husky, Tash Sultana (pre-superstardom), and countless emerging artists.

What sets it apart is its emphasis on community, connection, and authenticity — you won’t find massive stages or corporate branding here. Instead, it’s a celebration of intimacy, artistic excellence, and grassroots vibes.

Held over July 12–13, 2025, Mullum Roots Festival invites you to leave behind the noise and connect with real music, real people, and a town that feels like home.

Festival features:

• Headliners: Jeff Lang, The Waifs, Claire Anne Taylor, The Versace Boys
• Venues: Civic Hall, RSL, Bowlo, Civic Club, Courthouse—all walkable
• Saturday: “Psychedelic Saturday” features visual art collabs and lightshows
• Sunday: “Hootenanny” vibes with alt-country and roots performances
• All-ages welcome with a genuine family-first, no-VIP vibe

With its intimate scale and all-access ethos, this is where fans meet artists over coffee and buskers become the festival’s breakout stars.

Where to Stay: From Local Vibes to Ocean-Side Calm

If you’re attending the Mullum Music Festival, accommodation fills up fast. But while many festival-goers compete for in-town rooms or showground spots, seasoned travellers know that Broken Head Holiday Park is the ideal base — peaceful, scenic, and perfectly positioned.

Beachfront Bliss

Wake up to the sounds of waves, not car horns. With direct access to Broken Head Beach, you can start your day with a sunrise dip or unwind with a sunset stroll after a day of music.

Accommodation Options for Every Traveller

• Powered campsites nestled among palms
• Ensuite sites for added privacy and comfort
• Architect-designed beach cabins perfect for couples or groups
• Eco-conscious stays that let you reconnect with nature

All the Comforts of Home

• Clean, modern amenities blocks
• Fully equipped camp kitchens
• Laundry facilities for longer stays
• Helpful on-site staff ready to assist

Grounded in Culture

As a park managed with the support of the Arakwal people, BHHP integrates Aboriginal culture into its visual identity, guest experience, and environmental stewardship. You’ll feel a deeper sense of place and history here that enriches your entire stay.

What’s the Weather Like in July? (And What to Pack)

Mid-July in the Northern Rivers is mild and breezy—perfect for layers, outdoor music, and fireside chats.

Typical Conditions:

• Day: 17–22°C (mild and sunny)
• Night: 8–12°C (brisk, especially near the coast)
• Rainfall: Occasional light showers

Packing Checklist:

• Day-to-night wardrobe: tees, hoodies, jeans, waterproof jacket
• Comfy closed shoes for dancing and exploring
• Festival essentials: water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, phone pouch
• Beach gear for Broken Head: swimmers, towel, reef-safe sunscreen
• Camping extras: headlamp, gumboots, extra blanket

What to Eat in Mullumbimby: Feast Between the Sets

Mullumbimby might be small, but its food scene packs a punch. Between sets, fuel up at these local favourites:

Breakfast & Coffee:

• Empire Café: Sunny courtyard, all-day breakfast, strong espresso.
• Baker and Daughters: Must-try sausage rolls, vegan donuts, and artisan sourdough.

Lunch & Light Bites:

• Rock & Roll Coffee Company: Creative Asian-fusion bowls and smoothies.
• Chincogan Store: Old-school takeaway with the best burgers in town.
• Farmers Market (Friday morning): Fresh juices, hot pastries, local produce.

Dinner Delights:

• Yaman Mullumbimby: Warm, home-style Middle Eastern dishes—perfect for groups.
• Rosetta Deli & Bistro: Italian with heart—think handmade pasta and fresh antipasti.
• Izakaya Yu: Stylish Japanese tavern with sake and chargrilled skewers.
• Baba Emma’s: Comforting Eastern European fare with dumplings and hearty soups.

Late Night Tip: Grab something sweet from Santos Organics or a cheeky dessert from a pop-up festival stall before the last set ends.

Your Ideal Weekend Flow: A 3-Day Festival Itinerary

Friday: Ease Into the Festival Vibes

• Morning: Check in at Broken Head Holiday Park, wander the beach, take a deep breath.
• Afternoon: Grab lunch in Byron or visit Crystal Castle.
• Evening: Head to Mullum for the Opening Gala, grab dinner at Yaman, then finish with drinks at The Middle Pub.

Saturday: Music, Markets, and Mullum Moments

• Morning: Hit the Mullum Farmers Market, then brunch at Baker and Daughters.
• Midday: Explore local galleries or take in an acoustic courtyard set.
• Afternoon: Dive into Psychedelic Saturday—catch Jeff Lang and explore the lightshow exhibits.
• Evening: Grab a woodfired pizza or pub meal before heading back to Broken Head for a quiet wind-down by the firepit.

Sunday: Wind Down and Reconnect

• Morning: Coffee at Empire, casual gospel set at Club Mullum.
• Midday: Visit Wandana Brewing Co. for local craft beer and tunes.
• Afternoon: Return to Broken Head for a sunset beach picnic.
• Evening: Reflect, recharge, and relish one last night under the stars.

Festival Hacks: 5 Unexpected Things You’ll Be Glad You Packed

1. Earplugs – For sleeping in shared or camping areas.
2. Tissues or wipes – Not all venues are restocked late at night.
3. Blanket or ground mat – For lawn sets or beach hangs.
4. Ziplock bags – For snacks, sunscreen, or wet swimmers.
5. Phone power bank – Because photos, maps, and Spotify use battery fast.

Final Words: Where Music Meets Soul and Sea

Mullum Music Festival isn’t just about gigs—it’s about feeling connected. To people. To music. To place. It’s a weekend where you can dance with strangers, laugh with locals, and remember what it means to just be.

And when the amps go quiet and the town winds down, you’ll be glad you chose Broken Head Holiday Park as your sanctuary. Whether it’s the salt air, the rolling waves, or the first morning coffee by the ocean, there’s something grounding about coming back to nature after a day full of song.

So book early, pack your layers, charge your speaker, and get ready to move to the beat of Mullum—and then let the sea carry it home.