Music enthusiasts from across Australia and beyond converged on Canberra for the much-anticipated Spilt Milk Festival on December 9, 2025. After last year’s cancellation, this year’s event drew a diverse crowd, eager to experience performances from top artists, including global rap sensation Kendrick Lamar.
Ben Packwood traveled a remarkable 21-hour flight from Leicester, England, to join the festivities. Clad in a Leicester City Football Club jersey, he was seen alongside his cousin Calum Harland, navigating through the bustling crowd at Exhibition Park. The excitement was palpable as fans gathered for what promised to be a memorable day.
The festival’s atmosphere was electrified by the packed light rail service, which ferried attendees to the venue. Young festival-goers filled the trains, with overhead displays warning of “Large crowds expected.” This influx of attendees was particularly notable as many from Sydney made the journey, despite challenges in securing accommodations in the capital.
Wendy Amid, Jennifer Spinola, and Elizabeth Ho, along with a group of friends, showcased their festival spirit with bright yellow duck headbands. “We all wore the yellow duck to identify ourselves in the crowd,” said Ho, as they awaited the arrival of the rest of their group. The trio had arrived in Canberra the day before, eager to enjoy the music festival’s vibrant atmosphere.
Having already seen Kendrick Lamar perform in Sydney just days prior, fans Akaash Narayan and Jaz decided to follow the rapper to Canberra. “The Sydney show was amazing, and we wanted to catch the Canberra one too,” Jaz remarked, sharing that they had booked their tickets back in May and managed to find accommodation in nearby Campbell.
The spectacle of Spilt Milk was not limited to music; it was also a showcase of fashion and creativity. Attendees donned a variety of colorful outfits and accessories. Among them was Lucca Paijmans from South Canberra, who attracted attention in his all-white attire and distinctive milkman hat. “It’s Spilt Milk, and nothing is more perfect than this,” he stated proudly.
Canberra locals, including Haidee Cavanagh and Lewis Hargrave, also joined the festivities, adding to the vibrant mix of attendees. The festival featured a lineup of performances from other notable artists such as Dominic Fike and Doechii, keeping the energy high as crowds continued to pour into the venue.
As the day progressed, the excitement surrounding the 2025 Spilt Milk Festival grew, marking a successful return for the popular event after its hiatus. The gathering not only highlighted the enduring appeal of live music but also showcased the strong community spirit among fans, uniting them through their shared love for music and celebration.
