The festival, normally held in Tocumwal each November, was cancelled again this year due to uncertainty surrounding COVID-19 rules and regulations.
In its place, Strawberry Fields has announced a huge line-up for 2022, held over two separate weekends in March and April.
Tickets from this year have been transferred to the new dates, meaning it is already sold out.
Festival co-promoter Tara Benney said spreading the event over two weekends will assist organisers in managing crowd numbers, in line with COVID-19 restrictions.
“We’re so grateful to our fans, artists, staff and Tocumwal for enduring with us over the past 18 months of constant uncertainty and pivots,’’ she said.
‘‘It’s clear how desperate everyone is for the opportunity to come together as a community and enjoy music and art again.
‘‘‘We take this responsibility seriously, and will be doing everything in our power to deliver an unforgettable experience.’’
Weekend one of Strawberry Fields 2022 will be March 25 to 27, and weekend two will be April 1 to 3.
Each weekend will operate at 50 per cent of the festival’s normal capacity.
‘‘While that means a more intimate affair, the festival area will be in full swing as normal,’’ organisers said,.
‘‘There will be multiple wild stages, installations, a vibrant market, workshops, the Tea Lounge, Bush Spa, Gallery and Mirage Motel.’’
The line-up for the 2022 split event was announced last week, with some artists committing to performing both weekends.
There are 48 artists secured for weekend one, and 52 for weekend two.
All are Australian artists.
‘‘Australian artists deserve our support more than ever after the last two years,’’ the organising committee said.
‘‘This Strawberry Fields we are letting the amazing pool of local talent we have take centre stage.’’
‘‘The team has spent hundreds of hours designing a special edition of Strawberry to bring to you this summer.
‘‘We believe this format gives the festival the best possible chance of proceeding, while retaining the freedom and creativity that you love us for.’’
Strawberry Fields has, on average, attracted 6000 people to Tocumwal each year, mostly from metropolitan Melbourne.
Each event is estimated to inject at least $1 million into the local economy as a result of visitation and event expenses in the town.
The Tocumwal Chamber of Commerce has previously said an additional $100,000 is raised for community events and projects through the community barbecue at the event, manned by local volunteers.
The event is also usually followed by a Strawberry Fields grants program, for community initiatives.
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