melbourne cumbia fest 2026 feat. ghetto kumbé (colombia) + la descarga + djs + dance group at Howler

ISU TAKI and Howler proudly present Melbourne Cumbia Fest 2026. Cumbia is calling — and this Spring, Melbourne is answering. This October 4, Melbourne Cumbia Fest 2026 transforms Howler Theatre, Brunswick into a sonic carnival, a day of drums, flutes, marimba and dance.

For this year’s celebration we have the presentation of the renowned Colombian group Ghetto Kumbe making their Australian debut bringing their very distinctive sound, mixing in a unique way the indigenous and African music that converse between instruments, voices and visual elements with electronic beats. with supporting band la Descarga band, Australia’s long-standing Afro-Colombian powerhouse, blending deep basslines, hypnotic gaitas and psychotropic tropical funk. 

Behind the decks, selectors Cuerpo Negro, Otorongo, Soa Gabi and Zafiro will play a kaleidoscopic mix of tropical frequencies — from the raw roots of Afro-Caribbean cumbia to an electric mix of Peruvian chicha, Argentinean villera, Chilean neocumbia, Mexico’s narcotic rebajadas, cumbia digital, cumbia dub, and more!

Plus dance performances by Colombian Dance entertainment group.

At its core, cumbia is the groove that unites a continent — born on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, where Indigenous flutes, African drums, and coloniser’s melodies collided to create a rhythm that danced its way across Latin America. As it travelled, it absorbed new sounds and flavours at every stop, eventually becoming the musical backbone of the continent and a sound that keeps reinventing dance floors worldwide. 

Melbourne Cumbia Fest 2026 is co-financed by the grant “Portafolio Colombia en el mundo” by the Colombian minister of Culture and supported by Multicultural Arts Victoria (MAV) and Cumbia Massive.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::This event takes place on the land of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. The organisers respectfully acknowledge elders past, present and emerging. We acknowledge ancient knowledge not only from Kuli Nation, but all across both continents: Australia and Abya Yala. Always was, always will be.

VENUE INFO

Shows are Standing unless clearly stated. Check Ticket Type when purchasing.

Howler Bar & Grill The kitchen will be serving a full menu from 5pm (Tues - Fri) and 2pm (Sat - Sun) till late including vegan and vegetarian options. You can view the delicious offerings available by clicking here.

Booking are not essential but recommended here.

Accessibility Howler is Accessible. Both Garden and Theatre are 100% accessible for patrons including a central restroom and easy curbside access for car services. 

This venue accepts companion cards. Simply purchase your ticket and contact Moshtix to arrange access for your Companion. 

Parking A park and ride, council operated carpark is located immediately outside of Howler's doors.

Public TransportHowler is conveniently located just a two minute walk from both the Route 19 Coburg tram (stop 21), and Jewel train station on the Upfield line.

BicycleWe adjoin the Upfield Bike Path and have many designated bike parks on site.