After nearly two decades, NZ’s iconic music festival is saying goodbye to the capital.
It’s the end of an era, Jim Beam Homegrown has officially announced that 2025 will be its final year in Wellington. Since 2008, the festival has been a cornerstone of the city’s music scene, celebrating Aotearoa’s finest talent with thousands of fans flocking to the waterfront every year. But after 18 epic years, Homegrown is packing up and heading elsewhere.
A 18-Year Legacy on Wellington’s Waterfront
Homegrown has been synonymous with Wellington’s vibrant music culture, delivering electric performances across multiple stages, stretching from TSB Arena to Frank Kitts Park. Over the years, it’s brought us unforgettable sets from legendary Kiwi acts like Six60, L.A.B, Shapeshifter, Fat Freddy’s Drop, Kora, and more.
Beyond the music, the festival has always been a celebration of Kiwi pride, where the smell of street food mingles with the bass drops, and the crowd, decked out in everything from bucket hats to gumboots, unites for one massive party by the sea.
Why Is Homegrown Leaving Wellington?
While Homegrown has become a staple in Wellington, organisers have revealed that 2025 will be the final edition in the capital due to evolving logistical challenges and opportunities elsewhere. Factors like unpredictable weather (Wellington, we love you, but you’re moody), capacity constraints, and shifting audience demands likely played a role in the decision to move on.
Though Homegrown’s next location hasn’t been confirmed yet, speculation is rife that Auckland or Christchurch could be next in line to host the iconic festival.
What’s Next for Homegrown Fans?
If you’ve never been, or if you’re a die-hard Homegrown veteran, 2025 is the year to go all in. Expect organisers to pull out all the stops, promising a stacked line-up and an epic farewell to the capital. With one last chance to dance under the unpredictable Wellington skies, it’s bound to be an emotional (and very loud) goodbye.
Wellington’s Music Scene Without Homegrown
With Homegrown moving on, Wellington’s festival landscape is set to change. While the city still boasts a buzzing live music scene with venues like San Fran, Meow, and the TSB Arena, the departure of such a major festival leaves big shoes to fill. Here’s hoping new events will step in to carry the torch.
For now, mark your calendars for 2025, grab your tickets, and get ready to send Homegrown off in style. This one’s going to be special.
