Americana, alt-country, roots, folk, honky tonk, western swing ... call it what you will, but there is the unmistakable whiff of country in the air at Gold Roses.

Next year sees the unveiling of Bendigo's first alt-country music festival, so pull on your best cowboy boots and sashay on down to Handle Bar on Saturday, February 1, from 3pm.

This inaugural edition features a stellar line-up of some of the finest Victorian artists working in these genres.

You've seen them at the best country music festivals around the nation and beyond, playing everywhere from Tamworth to Nashville - from big stages to grungy dive bars and everything in between. You've heard them on Double J, RRR, PBS, ABC Country, and 94.7 The Pulse.

Now see them right here in your own backyard - and for free.

Full line-up announced:

James Ellis & The Jealous Guys
Four Lions
Katie Bates (Duo)
Kate & Hana
Nathan Seeckts