History festival brings the past to life through food, film and fashion

Australian Haydn Ensemble will perform Beethoven’s Eighth at Rathmines Theatre as part of the festival.

A Beethoven masterpiece, a vintage fashion parade, crime stories and comfort food are just a taste of what’s to come at Lake Macquarie’s annual History Illuminated Festival.

Returning to the city from Saturday 1 to Sunday 9 November 2025, the event focuses on the importance of uncovering, capturing and sharing histories of people, place and environment. 

Lake Macquarie City Council Manager of Arts Culture and Tourism Jacqui Hemsley said the program featured workshops, author talks, exhibitions, walking tours, community open days and plenty more. 

“Audiences can experience the Australian Haydn Ensemble’s stunning performance of Beethoven’s Eighth at Rathmines Theatre on 8 November,” she said.

“We also have a fashion parade run by the Australian Museum of Clothing and Textiles which is destined to draw the eye on 9 November.

“On 6 November, people can spend an evening with Kylie Kwong at Warners Bay Theatre.

“She’s become synonymous with modern Chinese cooking in Australia and has drawn on her heritage, combining uniquely Australian ingredients with traditional Chinese cooking methods and flavours.”

Another highlight is The Australian Dream? with Tim Ross on 8 November at Warners Bay Theatre, which will explore how Australian homes have evolved and shaped our national identity.

On 2 November, Film Harmonic: Cinema Classics at Warners Bay Theatre will see the Lake Macquarie Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Dr Steven Stanke, bring iconic film scores to life.

Tim Ross will speak about how Australian homes have evolved and shaped our national identity.

The Historic Dobell House will mark its 100th anniversary with a free celebration on Sunday 2 November, inviting the community to explore the legacy of one of Australia’s most iconic artists.

The venue will also extend its open house hours throughout the festival, offering visitors a glimpse into the life and work of Sir William Dobell.

Complementing this milestone, a curated selection of Dobell’s works from the city’s cultural collection is now on display at the Museum of Art and Culture, yapang.

“The festival brings history to life in surprising, moving and often entertaining ways,” Ms Hemsley said.

“It’s about connecting with our past through creativity, food, music, storytelling and even fashion.”

History buffs can dive into a diverse range of talks, from coal mining and motor racing to crime, creativity and local stories.

Highlights include sessions with Ed Tonks, Scott Bevan, Colin Bond, Mark Dapin, Damien Linnane and Tea Cooper.

To view the full program, head to library.lakemac.com.au.