Merry Heavy Xmas – A Festival With Heart

Every holiday season, music lovers flock to concerts and festivals to feel the joy of live music with friends. But few events combine the holiday spirit with a mission as meaningful as Merry Heavy Xmas. What started as a "work" Christmas party for friends in the music industry has transformed into a festival with a heartfelt purpose, bringing people together for music and giving back to those in need.

The idea for Merry Heavy Xmas took root back in 2014 when founder, Nate Rose was in a band called In Ashes We Lie. He wanted to create a small, festival like gathering where friends' bands could perform. While his original plan was to make this an annual event, this year marks only the third time it has come together. Each time, though, the vision has grown stronger and more meaningful. This year, Nate knew the festival had to support a cause, something beyond music that would make a real impact.

This year’s Merry Heavy Xmas is all about using music to help families affected by domestic and family violence. Inspired by seeing Crafter from I Killed the Prom Queen/Confession organising toy runs over the years, where bikers would gather to raise funds for shelters, Nate decided he wanted to do something similar.

After some research, he stubbled across RizeUp! Australia, a national organisation providing essential support for families facing domestic violence, including a Christmas Toy Appeal.

When Nate reached out to RizeUp! about partnering with him, they were thrilled. Supporting them through Merry Heavy Xmas felt like a natural fit, and he's committed to growing this festival into an annual tradition that helps make Christmas brighter for families in need.

"I want Merry Heavy Xmas to be the festival known for giving back"

Every single band and individual involved are donating their time, making this event both world class and incredibly affordable. With 14 bands performing across two stages at one of the best venues around, attendees can enjoy nonstop music for just $40, and it’s all going to a great cause.

For anyone who knows the Gold Coast music scene, Vinnies Dive Bar needs no introduction. It’s the heartbeat of underground music in the area and has been a home for bands and music lovers. Vinnie's has been with Nate through his days with In Ashes We Lie and now supports his photography career. With two stages in two rooms, Vinnie's provides the ideal setup for Merry Heavy Xmas. One band plays while the next sets up, so there’s never a break in the music.

"It’s pure, back to back excitement"

The lineup reflects the original vision of Merry Heavy Xmas, a gathering of friends who also happen to be some of the best hardcore bands in Australia. Nate reached out to friends and past collaborators, and everyone he contacted was straight on board and excited about the cause. While a few bands from the North Coast Hardcore scene couldn’t make it this year, Nate is hopeful he can pull it together for future festivals.

"I’m stoked to bring legendary acts like Dropsaw from Newcastle and No Control from the Central Coast, both making their first trip to the Gold Coast in years."

When Nate found RizeUp!, everything just clicked. Their mission aligns perfectly with what Nate wanted Merry Heavy Xmas to support. From their Christmas toy drive to their work helping families heal and rebuild, RizeUp! gives families a second chance and a safe space.

After having a conversation with Debbie and Lorraine from RizeUp! reaffirmed that this was the right partnership for Merry Heavy Xmas. The collaboration makes the festival about something much bigger than just music, it’s about supporting those who need it most during the holiday season.

"I’ve organised the whole thing on my own and trying to juggle work life, family life, shooting shows and also playing music has been tough but somehow it has all gone relatively smooth but I have to thank the venue and bands for being so easy to deal with"

For both hardcore fans and newcomers, Merry Heavy Xmas offers something special. All 14 bands are top notch, Nate says the real "must see" part is the entire lineup. From the openers to the headliners, every act brings something unique.

"Get out early catch the openers and stay all day you never know you might just find your new favourite band"

While Merry Heavy Xmas doesn’t have specific traditions yet, Nate is hoping to set up a “Photo with Santa” area where attendees can snap a pic with the festivals own Punk Rock Santa, provided If he can find someone willing to don the red suit, And if not,

"I might just do it myself"

Vinnies Dive Bar has always been more than just a venue, it’s a community hub. Bringing everyone together for a day of great music and even greater purpose feels special.

"Maybe one day one of those kids we have donated to finds Hardcore, becomes apart of our community, and continues our cycle of helping those in need"

Find tickets to Merry Heavy Xmas here