Wellington songwriter Vera Ellen is one of Aotearoa’s most acclaimed indie artists, winning Best Alternative Artist at the 2022 Aotearoa Music Awards and the 2023 Taite Music Prize. Signed to iconic local label Flying Nun, her music combines sharp, intimate songwriting with infectious indie-rock melodies and moments of raw vulnerability. In 2026 she released her latest album, Heaven Knows What Time, continuing a remarkable run of critically acclaimed records.

Listen to Vera Ellen on Spotify

Pōneke favourites Tahini Bikini bring a groove-heavy blend of neo-soul and funk made for getting people moving. Formed in 2021 from a mix of old friends and chance encounters, they’ve become regulars at venues and festivals around Aotearoa. Expect soulful vocals, infectious rhythms and plenty of energy when they hit the Brooklyn stage.

Listen to Tahini Bikini on Spotify

Wellington four-piece Juna make big-hearted pop-rock built around soaring harmonies, crunchy guitars and flashes of 80s synth. Their songs tackle the messy business of growing up, falling in love and figuring life out, with plenty of hooks along the way. With a string of new releases in 2026, they’re an exciting young local band to catch live. Spotify

Listen to Juna on Spotify

Wellington singer-songwriter Tegan Nott brings an ethereal, folk-inspired sound to the Brooklyn Twilight Festival. With delicate vocals and an intimate acoustic style, Tegan's music offers a beautiful change of pace amid the bustle of the festival. One to catch for lovers of heartfelt, atmospheric folk music.

Listen to Tegan Nott on Spotify

Fables is the musical project of Tāmaki Makaurau singer-songwriter Jess Bailey, blending intimate indie-folk with alt-country, Americana and richly textured arrangements. Bailey’s songs find beauty in the details of everyday life, pairing vivid storytelling with elegant guitar work and a warm, expressive voice. After becoming a familiar presence in Auckland’s independent music scene, Fables released the album Change Is a Slow Moving Beast in 2026.

Listen to Fables on Spotify

Fun & Funner! brings together comedian and Wellington Paranormal star Karen O’Leary, musician and teacher Tom Watson, and saxophonist Eilish Wilson. Their music is genuinely made for kids but doesn’t forget the grown-ups, bouncing between silliness, punk-rock energy and gentler songs. They’ve performed everywhere from CubaDupa to shows alongside Orchestra Wellington, and are guaranteed to get the younger festival crowd involved.

Listen to Fun & Funner! on Spotify

The Wellington Carnival Street Band returns to us with bold brass, colourful costumes, and community spirit! They’ve been bringers of spontaneous joy and dancing in the streets for 29 years!

At this year’s Brooklyn Twilight Festival, they’ll perform another interactive concert for kids and families featuring all-in dance tunes along with hilarious versions of children’s classics like The Wheels on the Bus and Heads, Shoulders, Knees and Toes!

Both Ridgway School and Brooklyn School will be kicking off this year’s festival with a celebration of kapahaka. This has become one of the most special and celebrated moments of festival each year.

Martyn Pepperell is an award-winning Wellington music journalist, broadcaster and DJ with a deep knowledge of sounds from Aotearoa and around the world. His writing and mixes have appeared through the likes of The Wire, Resident Advisor, NTS, RNZ, Dublab, Bandcamp and Mixmag, alongside years behind the decks on New Zealand student radio. He’ll be keeping the music moving between acts throughout the festival.