Imagine this: the sun dips below Sydney’s horizon, casting that pink-gold glow across the Harbour, and you’re nestled in the lush surrounds of Taronga Zoo. But instead of lions roaring or birds chirping, it’s DMA’s guitar riffs, or Boy & Bear’s folksy tunes filling the air. Welcome to Twilight at Taronga 2025, where the beats are wild, the backdrop is unbeatable, and every ticket sold helps fund a new Wildlife Hospital for the critters who call Taronga home.
So grab a friend, your favourite festival hat, and mark Monday, November 4 at 10 am AEDT on your calendar, because this lineup is a literal zoo of talent—and you’re invited. Here’s a sneak peek at the lineup that'll have you dancing with views of Sydney Harbour’s glistening twilight.
The Lineup: Paws, Claws, and Applause
Feb 7 – DMA’s
Twilight 2025 roars to life with DMA’s, whose gritty rock sound will have you head-banging against the skyline. With support from Finnoguns Wake, it’s the perfect way to kick off a lineup with something for every kind of music animal.
Feb 8 – The Cruel Sea
If you thought ocean rock was just a category for sea lions, think again. The Cruel Sea brings their signature, raw Aussie sound to the zoo with the talented Loose Content. Picture yourself swaying to moody guitars and gritty vocals while the stars emerge overhead.
Feb 14 – Boy & Bear
Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Boy & Bear set the mood with indie-folk romance. Grab your partner, a picnic, and get ready to swoon as Haley Holgate opens the night. Romantic sunsets included, courtesy of Mother Nature.
Feb 15 – Justine Clarke’s Lil’ Twilight & Comedy Gala
Start your morning with Lil’ Twilight and Justine Clarke’s fun tunes for the pint-sized crowd. Then, trade the toddlers for tears of laughter at the evening’s Comedy Gala, featuring stars like Joel Creasey and Georgie Carroll. It’s kid-friendly by day, comedy chaos by night.
Feb 21 – Peter Garrett & The Alter Egos
Former Midnight Oil frontman Peter Garrett brings his unmistakable voice to the stage, joined by Jem Cassar-Daley. It’s high-energy, it’s iconic, and the only thing missing is a protest sign—or maybe a call for an encore.
Feb 22 – Emma Memma’s Lil’ Twilight & David Campbell
Emma Memma’s morning Lil’ Twilight show is the kids’ ticket to singalongs and dance moves galore, while David Campbell takes the evening shift with his soulful new show Good Lovin'—a swing through the swinging 60s. Karen Lee Andrews kicks things off with blues that’ll melt your heart.
Feb 28 – Spiderbait
They’ve been rocking for over three decades, and they’re showing no signs of slowing. Spiderbait and support from DOWNGIRL are here to make you feel 20 again. Pack your air guitar; you’ll need it.
March 1 – Middle Kids
If you like your indie rock with a sprinkle of alt-pop, Middle Kids (and dream-pop support from EGOISM) are your jam. Come prepared to sway, sing, and maybe even shed a tear. You know, for that "indie music nostalgia" effect.
March 7 – Baby Animals & Killing Heidi
Double headliner night! Baby Animals and Killing Heidi bring serious rock cred to the zoo with hits that’ll have you belting out tunes louder than the nearby lion den. Joan & The Giants open the night, so bring your voice and get ready to roar.
March 8 – Bjorn Again
For the grand finale, it’s disco delight as Bjorn Again takes you back to ABBA’s greatest hits. It’s the one night of the year where your flares and sequins are not just acceptable—they’re mandatory.
A Ticket With the Power to Protect
Here’s the twist: every ticket sold isn’t just a golden ticket to live music heaven; it’s a lifeline for Taronga’s future Wildlife Hospital. You’ll be dancing, laughing, and singing for conservation, with every beat bringing us one step closer to building Australia’s first dedicated Wildlife Veterinary Teaching Hospital. Imagine—your night of musical bliss funds lifesaving care for creatures great and small. Now that is music to the ears.
Art with Heart
Adding an extra layer of magic, this season’s visuals come from the talented Caitlin Trindall of Mirii Art. As a proud Gomeroi woman, Caitlin’s contemporary work bridges tradition and modernity, celebrating Aboriginal culture and ensuring it has a place in our everyday lives. Her art is more than eye-catching—it’s a reminder that Twilight at Taronga is a celebration of connection, community, and conservation.
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Words by AW.