Hamilton is ready for Homegrown. Are you?

This Saturday, Hamilton will host one of the biggest all-New Zealand music festivals ever staged, and the city is ready.

Jim Beam Homegrown will take over Claudelands Oval on 14 March 2026, bringing thousands of fans and more than 40 of Aotearoa’s best-loved artists across seven stages, with visitors travelling from across the country to be part of it.

For Hamilton locals, it is a rare chance to experience one of New Zealand’s most iconic music festivals without leaving the city, opportunities to experience an event of this scale in Hamilton do not come around very often.

“We have been counting down to this since the day it was announced,” said Vanessa Williams, General Manager of the Hamilton Central Business Association.

“The central city is buzzing and our businesses are ready. Accommodation providers across Hamilton are reporting strong bookings, with many visitors choosing to arrive early and stay the weekend to experience everything the city has to offer.

“Whether people arrive Friday night or make a full weekend of it, there is so much to see, eat and experience right in the heart of the city. Our restaurants, bars and retailers are gearing up for a fantastic few days and we are excited to welcome visitors into the CBD.

“Events like this bring incredible energy into the city. It is not just about the festival itself, it is about people exploring Hamilton, discovering new places and supporting local businesses along the way. We want every visitor to feel like a local while they are here.”

In a uniquely Hamilton twist, the Bridge to Homegrown walkway will connect the CBD directly to Claudelands Oval, transforming Claudelands Bridge into a lively festival link filled with performers, entertainment, food trucks and activations throughout the day.

Sean Murray, Hamilton City Council's General Manager Destinations Group, says the city is ready to welcome Jim Beam Homegrown this weekend, marking an exciting moment for Hamilton as it hosts one of the country’s biggest music festivals.

“Hosting a nationally recognised event like Jim Beam Homegrown is a big moment for Hamilton and something the city can be proud of,” he said.

“Events of this scale bring significant economic activity into the city, with thousands of people spending time in our central city, visiting local businesses and experiencing what Hamilton has to offer.”

“It will also showcase Hamilton as a place capable of delivering major national events and creating vibrant experiences for both locals and visitors.”

“The Bridge to Homegrown activation will help create a lively link between the CBD and Claudelands, adding to the atmosphere and giving people even more to experience across the day.”

“We encourage locals to come into the city, enjoy the entertainment and be part of what will be a fantastic weekend for Hamilton.”

With stages running from 1pm through to 11pm, Claudelands Oval will transform into a full-day celebration of New Zealand music.

The lineup

Headlined by SIX60, the lineup features L.A.B, Blindspott, Supergroove, Dragon, Devilskin, Hello Sailor, Katchafire, Head Like a Hole, Fur Patrol, Ladi6, The Black Seeds, Sons of Zion, Fly My Pretties, David Dallas and many more performing across seven stages.

Event details

Date: Saturday 14 March 2026Venue: Claudelands OvalGates open: 1:00pmFinish: 11:00pm

Tickets: homegrown.net.nz

Visitor information: hamiltonhostcity.co.nz