Boutique South Australian music event, Handpicked Festival returns in 2025 with one of its biggest line-ups yet.
Staged at Langhorne Creek upon the lush lawns of Lake Breeze Wines (8 November), Handpicked Festival will welcome thousands of festival goers.
They'll be entertained by the likes of local legends Hilltop Hoods, alongside Aussie music royalty Xavier Rudd (read our recent interview with Xavier), The Rubens, and Meg Mac, the ultimate party starter Hot Dub Time Machine, as well as emerging talent Mia Wray, Marlon and Lotte Gallagher.
"Handpicked Fans can expect nothing less than a high-energy, electrifying set that will leave the them buzzing," event organiser Kate Cooper says of the Hoods' headlining set that will feature their biggest hits – 'Leave Me Lonely', '1955' and 'Nose Bleed Section' – as well as their recent singles 'Don't Happy, Be Worry' and 'The Gift'.
"Xavier Rudd's career spans longer than 20 years in the music industry, we feel fairly special to think he will be playing in our backyard," adds Kate.
"We have been awaiting The Rubens return, after the year that got cancelled due to the freak storm we couldn't be more excited to finally get the guys up on our stage.
"Meg Mac has been an all-time favourite for me," continues Kate, "To think we have finally got her coming to Handpicked in 2025 is a joy. You may well find me at the front of the crowd singing along for Meg's entire set.
"Hot Dub was also involved in our year that shan't be named (the freak storm cancellation year) so to finally have Hot Dub, The Hoods and The Rubens back is wonderful. I've seen Tom perform many times and just know that the crowd will adore his set to end the event.
"I've known Marlon for quite a few years. In fact, I think I witnessed his first ever gig here in Adelaide. He has grown from strength to strength. I feel so happy to welcome him to the Handpicked stage and just know that we will all see big things from Marlon in the future."
Hidden amongst the vineyards and gumtrees at Lake Breeze, Handpicked is a complete sensory experience with award-winning wines, food trucks and a captivating cocktail forest.
"Last year, we were ecstatic to have 7,500 people bursting into our backyard. It was pure magic to see the sell-out crowd setting up their picnic rugs before grabbing a wine before settling in.
"Handpicked is where boutique meets festival, think world-class live music, incredible wines, curated food and stunning scenery, all in an intimate, friendly setting. No chaos, no stress, just pure magic," Kate says.
This year, the family behind Handpicked is introducing Wine Down Weekend encouraging festival goers to spend the full weekend in the glorious Langhorne Creek wine region. "Instead of just coming for the day, we want people to arrive early, explore Langhorne Creek, and indulge in the region's best food, wine, and hospitality.
"We hope to showcase more local wineries, restaurants, and accommodation providers. Handpicked has always been about more than just music. This initiative deepens the experience while driving real economic benefits for local businesses."
Tickets are on sale.
Handpicked Festival takes place at Lake Breeze Wines (Langhorne Creek) 8 November.
Handpicked Festival 2025 Line-up
Hilltop HoodsXavier Rudd
The Rubens
Meg Mac
Hot Dub Time Machine
Mia Wray
Marlon
Lotte Gallagher
