Maitland’s young people take centre stage this Youth Week 2026

Young people aged 12 to 24 across Maitland are invited to participate in Youth Week 2026, taking place from 16 to 26 April. The week features a variety of free and low-cost events, including live music, creative workshops, outdoor adventures and skill-building activities.

Held annually across NSW, Youth Week celebrates the achievements and ideas of young people, while providing opportunities to connect and get involved in the community. This year’s theme, ‘Dream. Dare. Do’, encourages young people to try new experiences and be active contributors to the city.

Maitland City Council is hosting a program of events at a range of venues across the city including Maitland Regional Art Gallery, Maitland Aquatic Centre and Maitland libraries. Activities include live music, creative workshops, outdoor adventures and skill-building opportunities such as cybersecurity challenges and lifeguard courses, giving young people many ways to get involved.

Maitland Mayor Philip Penfold said, “Youth Week is an important opportunity to recognise the role young people play in shaping the future of the city – a connected and thriving Maitland.

“Maitland’s population is growing and changing, with more young people moving to the area alongside an ageing population, and it’s vital we provide spaces and opportunities where everyone can engage, participate and thrive.

“This week is all about recognising youth as active contributors to the city we all share.”

Highlights of the Youth Week program include:

Maitland Aquatics Winter Launch (16 April)

Celebrate the start of the winter swim season with free pool entry, free sausage sizzle and hot chocolates as well as a range of family-friendly activities including laser tag, Easter egg hunt, aqua fitness and learn to swim classes.

Youth Week live at Maitland Regional Art Gallery (17 April)

Enjoy live music from talented young musicians from schools across the Hunter and local up-and-coming bands. Performances take place indoors during the final days of the ARTEXPRESS exhibition, with larger acts on the Gallery lawn. Bring friends, family and a picnic blanket, and enjoy free pizza from Ometto Pizza Bar & Deli.

Burton Automotive Hunter Valley Steamfest (18 and 19 April)

All aboard for Hunter Valley Steamfest, where the steam locomotives take centre stage! Celebrate steam, history and family fun with classic trains and historic displays. Enjoy live music, roving performances and market stalls, and drop by the Council’s engagement tent to meet local Councillors and share your ideas.

Councillor Ben Worth, Maitland’s youngest-ever Councillor, said, “Youth Week is about empowering young people to get involved in their community and share ideas on issues that matter most to them.

“This year’s program offers a mix of creative, educational and recreational activities, from live music and art workshops to community events, giving young people practical ways to connect and be recognised for their contributions to Maitland.”

For more information about Youth Week 2026 and to check out the full program, visit mait.city/YouthWeek2026