Live Music Takes Over Charlotte Street for the Cooktown Discovery Festival Busking Competition
The sound of live music, street performance and crowd applause will fill the heart of Cooktown this June as the Cooktown Post Office Busking Competition returns to the Cooktown Discovery Festival program.
Held on Saturday 20 June 2026 from 8:30am to 3:30pm, the all-day event will transform Charlotte Street into a vibrant live music precinct, showcasing talented performers from across the region.
From acoustic artists and emerging young musicians to seasoned entertainers, the Busking Competition offers festivalgoers the chance to experience live performances throughout the day while exploring Cooktown’s historic main street.
Performers will compete across two categories:
- Junior Category: Ages 12–17
- Open Category: Ages 18+
Festival attendees will vote for their favourite acts through people’s choice voting, making the event one of the most interactive experiences of the Cooktown Discovery Festival weekend.
Cash prizes will be awarded in each category, with winners also earning the opportunity to perform as part of the official Discovery Festival program.
Buskers will perform from the designated Buskers Area on the corner of Charlotte Street and Furneaux Street, with performances scheduled throughout the day.
Think you’ve got what it takes to entertain the crowd? Register now and be part of the action.
Registrations are now open via the Cooktown Discovery Festival website.
For festival updates and information on how to register, visit the Cooktown Discovery Festival website.