THE Big Chill Festival has once again proven regional events are more than just a good time – they’re a powerful force for economic growth and long-term resilience in communities like the Armidale region.

This year’s sold-out festival delivered a staggering $3.6 million in total economic benefit, including $2.3 million in direct visitor expenditure.

With a 47 per cent increase in ticket sales from the previous year and a sold-out weekend that drew more than 5000 attendees, the numbers speak volumes — but they only tell part of the story.

At the heart of this success is ARC’s annual investment into the festival of $350,000, which acted as a catalyst for growth.

That contribution generated a tenfold return into the community, amplifying the festival’s impact far beyond the event itself.

Across Armidale, local businesses felt the buzz.

Hospitality and retail operators reported trading levels rivalling the Christmas rush.

Cafés were bustling and local boutique stores thrived as the city came alive.

“The visitors had the cash registers spinning and we had the best sales since Christmas,” said Ross Patch, owner of Lifestyle Outfitters.

“The excitement and buzz in Armidale over the Big Chill weekend were rewarding for retailers. Our store catered for the needs of the Big Chill goers with plenty of wet weather gear sold.

“Sometimes the weather can be an advantage. Looking forward to next year’s gig,” he said.

This year the Big Chill festival delivered $3.6 million in total economic benefit to the region, including $2.3 million in direct visitor expenditure.

Local business owner, Matthew Neary, highlighted the importance of events like the Big Chill Festival on small businesses like his.

“During the Big Chill, we had our biggest week we have ever had — the town was electric,” Mr Neary said.

“Every year that the event continues to grow, the economic flow-on is amazing for small businesses like ours.

“We saw a 30 per cent spike in sales on Sunday alone. The foot traffic was incredible, and it wasn’t just locals – it was visitors discovering our shop for the first time.

“Events like this are a lifeline for small businesses,” he said.

Regional Activation manager Renata Davis said the influx was “not just about sales”.

“It’s about visibility, connection and showing off what Armidale can do. The festival creates a ripple effect that lasts well beyond the weekend,” she said.

Weekend activities like the Chilly Dip at Dumaresq Dam and local markets gave residents and visitors a uniquely Armidale experience and extended experiences beyond the festival walls.

The event’s reach also extended far beyond the city limits.

Some 45 per cent of ticket-holders travelled from outside the region, and more than 1 million people were reached across social media platforms, putting the region firmly on the map for future tourism and investment.

Armidale mayor Sam Coupland said this year’s The Big Chill Festival wasn’t just a celebration of music, food and community – it was a major economic boost for the Armidale region.

“I can’t overstate the importance of these events,” Cr Coupland said.

“They showcase our region and bring people together while giving a huge boost to our local retailers and business community.

“The Festival is also a fantastic vehicle to promote and support the depth of local talent we have in the region in music, the arts, and food and beverage production,” he said.

Cr Coupland said the emergence of the festival as a staple event on the regional calendar, and its substantial growth in recent years shows the demand for high quality events like The Big Chill in the region.

“Council is proud to deliver a regional music festival that has grown to stand confidently alongside established and renowned festivals in the industry,” Cr Coupland said.

We look forward to continuing the momentum in 2026 and delivering a festival that celebrates the cool climate of the Armidale region.”