Emerging artist stage back for Festival of Sails

The Emerging Artist Stage will make its highly anticipated return to the 2025 Festival of Sails, allowing local performers the opportunity to showcase their talent in front of residents and visitors at the region’s largest sailing event of the year.

At this year’s Festival of Sails, the competition expands to two days with the addition of the “We Are the Youth!” Series for aspiring artists aged 12-17, alongside the original Emerging Artists Series, open to all ages.

Between eight and 10 performers will take the stage between 1pm and 6.30pm each day to deliver 20-minute sets, offering a perfect soundtrack to the festival’s bustling atmosphere.

“Prizes include $500 cash for the winner, features in Forte Magazine, airtime on K rock 95.5, and a performance spot on the Festival of Sails main stage in 2026,” a Royal Geelong Yacht Club spokesperson said.

“Two runners-up will receive $250 each, along with editorial mentions.

“The overall winner will also be invited to perform on the main stage at next year’s Festival of Sails.

This year will be the first time the event is co-presented between K rock and Forte, placing more potential exposure towards an even bigger prize pool for local performers.

Entries close on January 15 to be part of the exciting event.

Key dates:

Saturday, January 25, 2025: Emerging Artists Series

Sunday, January 26, 2025: We Are the Youth! Series

To register or for more information, head to festivalofsails.com.au