Battle of the Bands | 2026
Young band playing live

Astigmatism at the Lakeside Jam, 2025. Photo Corwyn Ross.

Heats: Saturday 10 October, 10:30am, 1:30pm & 4:30pm

Lakeside Jam: Saturday 21 November, 5 – 10pm

About Battle of the Bands

Battle of the Bands is a series of free music events for young people run by Tuggeranong Arts Centre (TAC).

Young musicians aged 13-25 with any connection to Tuggeranong are encouraged to apply for the opportunity to perform live onstage and gain experience working with other musicians and planning gigs.

Successful applicants will get to play at an open-mic style Heats. A limited number of finalists will be selected to play the summer “Lakeside Jam” as professional paid gig.

Heats

The best young bands in Canberra will take to the stage at Tuggeranong Arts Centre and go head-to-head for a place in the Lakeside Jam finals.

Expect high voltage performances of original songs and crowd favorites as these emerging musicians battle it out on Saturday 10 October.

Each band will perform a 15-minute set and get to WOW the audience and the friendly panel of judges.

Lakeside Jam

An electrifying afternoon of live music by the Battle of the Bands finalists. Come celebrate local talent at this free, all ages event on Saturday 21 November.

Enjoy an exciting blend of musical styles and talents. Bring a picnic rug, soak up the stunning lakeside views, and enjoy delicious food and drinks from pop-up stalls. 

Acknowledgements

Tuggeranong Arts Centre acknowledges the generous sponsorship received from the ACT Government to make this event possible.

David Smith MP is proud to support Battle of The Bands and the Tuggeranong Arts Centre.