Full On Arvo 2 returns to Newcastle’s Hamilton Station Hotel this weekend, bringing an interstate headline act, an international touring band and a packed lineup of local favourites across three stages.
After a successful debut in 2025, Full On Arvo is back for a second year, once again taking over the entire Hamilton Station Hotel for an afternoon and evening of live music.
The mini-festival has carved out its own niche on Newcastle’s gig calendar by delivering the energy of a full-scale music festival while kicking off early enough for punters to call it a night at a reasonable hour, or keep the party going if they choose.
Leading the lineup is Sydney outfit Mac the Knife, a band that has steadily built a devoted following thanks to its high-octane live performances and driving indie-rock sound.
Fresh from support slots with The Preatures and Teenage Dads, as well as a headline appearance at King Street Crawl, the group arrives in Newcastle with plenty of momentum behind them.
Joining them is Montreal trio Cola, who will make a stop in Newcastle as part of their first-ever Australian tour.
The acclaimed Canadian band is currently gearing up for the release of its third studio album, Cost Of Living Adjustment, following a string of critically praised records that earned recognition from major international music publications including Rolling Stone, Pitchfork and Stereogum.
The festival also shines a spotlight on Newcastle and Australian talent, with a diverse lineup featuring Deadshowws, Juno Eclipse, Binsad, Old House, Bardvarkk, Trophy Wyfe, The Nervous System, The Janes and Fenn Wilson & The Weather.
Meanwhile, in the beer garden, DJs Bon-Binary and Queerio will keep the atmosphere buzzing between sets, ensuring there’s little downtime across the venue takeover.
Full On Arvo 2 takes place at the Hamilton Station Hotel this Saturday, 13 June 2026. With three stages of live music, interstate and international acts, and a strong local contingent, the event promises a packed afternoon of entertainment for Newcastle music lovers. Tickets and further information are available through our Gig Guide.
