Jimmy Rees will be one of the performers in the new Grand Pavilion this year.
The 2026 Deni Ute Muster is shaping up as one of the biggest and most family-friendly events in the festival’s history, with a raft of new attractions, live entertainment and crowd favourites set to transform the iconic ute gathering into a weekend-long experience for all ages.
Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content
Among the fresh additions making their Muster debut this year are Joey Presto’s Magic Show, the Deniliquin Can Assist Yabby Races, a giant-sized Guess Who game board and the Ultimate Gaming Trailer, a fully air-conditioned truck packed with the latest gaming consoles and interactive experiences.
Muster general manager Vicky Lowry said this year’s around the grounds schedule has been planned to ensure there’s something happening in every corner of the site “from sun-up to well after dark”.
“We’ve packed this year’s program with more action, more entertainment and more reasons than ever to get to Deni early and stay the whole weekend,” she said.
“What makes the Muster special is that it’s more than just a music festival, it’s a full experience.
“Whether you’re here for the music, the Ute culture or the family fun, 2026 delivers it all in a big way.”
A major feature of this year's family entertainment program will be the introduction of the new 1500-seat Grand Pavilion, which will host a series of performances across the weekend.
Whipcracker Nathan Griggs will put on a showcase.
Photo by
Holly Curtis
Taking to the stage for two shows each are 360 ALLSTARS, a high-energy production combining BMX riders, breakdancers, acrobats and live musicians in a fast-paced spectacle designed to keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
Also performing will be the internationally acclaimed Trash Test Dummies, whose unique blend of slapstick comedy, circus skills and inventive bin-based antics has earned a reputation as one of the most entertaining family performances on the festival circuit.
Adding plenty of laughs to the lineup, Australian comedian Jimmy Rees will also bring his trademark observational humour and energetic stage presence to the Muster, delivering two shows packed with relatable moments and crowd-pleasing comedy.
The popular Silent Disco will return this weekend. Photo by Ryan Heffer.
While the new attractions are expected to draw strong crowds, festival-goers will also be pleased to see the return of a long list of favourites, including the ARB M5 Bullride, Bogan Bingo, Carnival Corner, Bendigo Bricks, Guru Dudu Silent Disco, Matt Falloon’s Balloon Show, helicopter rides, camel rides, line dancing, wood chopping demonstrations and the ever-popular Nathan ‘Whippy’ Griggs whipcracking performances.
Free children's activities will once again run throughout the weekend at the Decentralised Demountables Family Centre, complemented by a sensory tent, miniature hobby farm, rock climbing wall, jumping castles, science shows and a host of interactive exhibits.
Competition remains at the heart of the Deni Ute Muster experience, with events such as the Walkabout Services Show 'n Shine, GME Circle Work, Ringers Western Barrel Race and Go to Wo competitions all returning.
One of the most anticipated challenges will again be the Tradie Challenge, proudly supported by On the Go Safety.
Four teams will battle it out on Friday to build The Great Aussie Chicken Coop, with $2000 and the coveted title of Tradies of the Year on the line.
Paul Bennet Airshows will again welcome people to Deni with some aerial acrobatics. Photo by Ryan Heffer.
The completed coops will be auctioned on Saturday morning, with all proceeds donated to the Country Education Fund Edward River Region branch.
The action begins from the moment the gates open at 8am on Friday, October 2, when the Paul Bennet Airshow team will officially welcome visitors to Deni with a spectacular flyover and flag drop.
Early arrivals will also be treated to a special Thursday night aerial display featuring parachute performances and pyrotechnics over the festival site.
Festival organisers say the expanded entertainment program reinforces the Muster's commitment to delivering a world-class event that offers something for every member of the family, both on and off the main stage.
And to cap off Saturday night's celebrations, Howard and Sons will once again light up the Riverina skies with a spectacular fireworks display, providing a fitting finale to another unforgettable Deni Ute Muster weekend.
The weekend will again conclude with an amazing fireworks display. Photo by Ryan Heffer.
