For perennially popular Float Your Boat competitor Megan Evans, the annual tradition of igniting the light and letting it shine has fast become a family affair.

As Newcastle Fringe Festival rolls into its second decade, something has quietly shifted. This is no longer a homegrown, determined start-up proving its worth. Nor is it a novelty on the cultural calendar. Newcastle Fringe has grown up, and in doing so, it has become something rarer and more powerful: a festival the city can genuinely claim as its own.

Entering its fourth year, the Lake Macquarie One Act Play Festival has evolved into a vibrant celebration of fresh storytelling, with playwrights contributing new work from across Lake Macquarie and the wider Hunter region, as well as America, New Zealand and beyond - all competing for a share of the $1,900 prize pool.

Maitland’s road network is set for some serious safety improvements, with Maitland City Council securing close to $1 million to upgrade two major intersections.

Every public-school student in NSW can now access opportunities to pursue their talents and potential at their local school, with the ground-breaking Inspire program rolling out as part of the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to put high potential and gifted education (HPGE) offerings in every public school.

The next generation of Newcastle’s music scene is ready to turn up the volume.

Tickets for the Burton Automotive Hunter Valley Steamfest 2026 go on sale Monday 2 March, with two of New South Wales’ most celebrated steam locomotives confirmed to headline this year’s ARTC Rail Program.

A new Newcastle Art Gallery will open its doors this weekend after more than 16 years of fundraising and perseverance, ushering in a new era of cultural tourism in the city.

The Local Women of the Year Awards celebrate visionary thinkers, everyday heroes, social advocates, and trailblazing role models who make a meaningful difference in their communities.

A historic period of growth and investment in Newcastle Airport has seen outgoing Chair of the Board, Jude Munro AO, recognised with a Key to the City.

Your complete guide to what's on in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens and the Hunter Valley...

Hunter Drama is set to start its 2026 season with a bang and a whole lot of glitter. Once Upon A One More Time brings together rebellious princesses, girl-power storytelling, and the irresistible hits of pop superstar Britney Spears for a night of theatrical fun at the Playhouse, Civic Theatre Newcastle, from 9–19 April.

Performance Arts Culture Cessnock (PACC) has kicked off its 2026 season in spectacular style, with a stunning new exhibition by internationally recognised local artist Dani Marti now open to the public and running until 18 April.

Support live music this March with our local gig guide for Newcastle, the Hunter and Lake Macquarie.

Your guide to local farmers & artisan markets in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and the Hunter.