What's On Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens & the Hunter Valley | December 25 - January 26
- intouch Magazine
- 8 hours ago
- 8 min read
Your complete guide to what's on in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens and the Hunter Valley...
UNTIL FEBRUARY 2026
Model Newcastle at Newcastle Museum
Newcastle Museum recently opened its latest exhibit, and there's one notable difference to the items on display – their size. Model Newcastle: Big Stories, Little Things delves into the intricate world of models and miniatures that pack maximum impact despite their diminutive scale. The exhibition features items from the Museum's extensive collection alongside treasured creations on loan from the community, exploring how these tiny worlds serve big purposes. For more information, visit www.newcastlemuseum.com.au.
FRIDAY 5 DECEMBER
Sooshi Mango: Homemade at Civic Theatre
After 39 sold-out performances in 2024, Sooshi Mango returns with their encore tour. Joe, Carlo, and Andrew Salanitri deliver their signature relatable, nostalgic humour through outrageous characters, skits, and musical numbers. Catch classic favourites like Johnny, Vince, Sam, and everyone's beloved mums, Carmela, Angela, and Giuseppina, before they retreat for their well-earned pizza, pasta, and wine hibernation. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au.
SATURDAY 6 DECEMBER
The Dead South at Bar on the Hill
Canadian Bluegrass Four-Piece The Dead South return to Australia this summer, and they are taking over Newcastle Entertainment Centre for one night only! The Dead South flawlessly execute banjo rolls and lightning fast mandolin tremolos, 3-part harmonies, and songs of classic themes. Don’t miss out! Tickets on sale now, visit www.oztix.com.au.
SATURDAY 6 DEC – SUNDAY 4 JAN
Lavender Field Walk and Tour at Hunter Lavendar Farm
The Hunter Lavender Farm reopens for its 4th season, offering visitors a chance to explore lush lavender fields in full bloom. Enjoy scenic walks, photography sessions, and engaging workshops, making it a perfect addition to your Hunter Valley itinerary alongside wine tours. For more info, visit hunterlavenderfarm.com.au.
SATURDAY 6 DECEMBER
Christmas Carols in the Park at Huntlee District Park
Celebrate the holiday season with Christmas Carols in the Park at Huntlee 2025 – a joyful evening of music, community spirit, and festive cheer. Families and friends are invited to bring picnic rugs, relax under the stars, and sing along to all their favourite Christmas carols. For more information, visit www.huntlee.com.au.
SATURDAY 6 DECEMBER
Jimmy Barnes Working Class Man 40th Anniversary Tour at Bimbadgen
To celebrate his landmark album For The Working Class Man, Jimmy Barnes is hitting the road for the Working Class Man 40th Anniversary Tour, proudly presented by MG Live and Face To Face Touring. Barnesy, as he’s affectionately known, will be playing the iconic album from start to finish, taking the crowd from I’d Die To Be With You Tonight to Paradise, plus classic cuts from his chart-topping catalogue. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.mg.live/jimmybarnes
SUNDAY 7 DECEMBER
Carols at the Podium at Warners Bay Foreshore
Join Macquarie Life Church for a magical evening of Carols by the foreshore at Warners Bay. Bring your loved ones, pack a picnic, and settle in for a festive celebration the whole family will enjoy. With plenty of dining options along the Esplanade, live entertainment from 5 pm, and a possible visit from Santa, it's the perfect way to embrace the Christmas spirit. For more info, visit the Facebook event page.
SUNDAY 7 DECEMBER
Newcastle Toy Run at Connolly Park, Carrington
It’s time to rev your engines for a cause! Join the 47th annual Newcastle Toy Run, starting from Ballast Park and ending in a festive Family Day at Connolly Park. Help bring joy to families in need this Christmas through donations, live music, kids’ fun, market stalls, food trucks, and more! For more information, visit www.newcastletoyrun.com.au.
WEDNESDAY 10 DECEMBER
The Wiggles Tree of Wisdom Big Show Arena Spectacular at Newcastle Entertainment Centre
The Wiggles Tree of Wisdom Big Show Arena Spectacular is coming to Newcastle! Packed with bubbles, lights, and DJ Dorothy dance parties, this 360° live show is their biggest yet. Sing, dance and wiggle along to classic hits and new favourites in a magical all-ages celebration. For more information or to get tickets, visit www.nec.net.au.
FRIDAY 12 DECEMBER
Clyde St Arts Open Markets at 50 Clyde Street, Hamilton North
Discover the vibrant community of Clyde St Arts at their Open Market, a celebration of creativity and culture from 4-9pm. Wander through open studios, browse market stalls filled with second-hand treasures and handmade goods, and enjoy delicious bites from local food and beer trucks. For more information, visit www.50clydestart.com.au.
FRIDAY 12 DECEMBER
Frank Sultana Music Presents Big Blues Bash 4 at Stag & Hunter Hotel
Frank Sultana's acclaimed Blues Bash 4 is taking over the Stag and Hunter Hotel this summer with a little Toohey’s. The stellar lineup features American blues legend Eugene "Hideaway" Bridges, alongside Australian favourites Jeff Lang, Karen Lee Andrews, and Fiona Boyes. The Ray Beadle Band and Memphis IBC finalist Nadia round out the bill, with the debut of Brothers featuring Sultana, Nathan Beretta, and Dan Sullivan. To purchase tickets, visit www.stagandhunter.com.au.
SATURDAY 13 DECEMBER
Newcastle Bass Floor Biggest Christmas Party Race Day at Newcastle Racecourse
Get ready for a day of excitement at Newcastle Racecourse’s biggest Christmas party race day! Gather your friends or colleagues and celebrate the festive season with trackside entertainment, lively celebrations, and a special visit from Santa. It’s the perfect way to enjoy summer racing and Christmas cheer all in one. For more info, visit www.newcastleracecourse.com.au.
SATURDAY 13 DECEMBER
Feast Fest: The Twilight Food Festival at Blacksmiths Beach
Embark on a Festive Flavourful Journey at FEAST FEST, featuring mouthwatering food trucks, premium wine and beer, and live music as the sun sets over Blacksmiths Beach. Shop unique gifts from local vendors, let the kids enjoy our family zone, and bring your leashed pets along for the fun. It's the perfect evening to kick off the holiday season! For more info, visit www.browseau.com/feast-fests.
SATURDAY 20 DECEMBER
Caves Coastal Christmas Carols at Caves Coastal
Experience the magic of Christmas by the ocean at Caves Coastal's annual Christmas Carols. Gather your loved ones for an afternoon of festive joy, live carols, delicious food, and family-friendly fun. From 3pm till late, enjoy carols on the green, complimentary kids' entertainment, and refreshing summer drinks with stunning ocean views. For more information, visit www.cavescoastal.com.au.
TUESDAY 23 DECEMBER
The Greatest Christmas Show at Civic Theatre
Australia's #1 family Christmas event features Master Illusionist Anthony Street with breathtaking magic, soaring vocals, incredible dancers, and jaw-dropping cirque aerial acts. From high-flying feats to heartwarming moments and Santa's special visit, this spectacular show creates unforgettable memories and captures true Christmas magic for the whole family. For more information, visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au.
FRIDAY 26 DECEMBER
Hot Dub Time Machine at Newcastle Racecourse
Hot Dub Time Machine lands at Newcastle Racecourse this Boxing Day for a show that's pure energy. Prepare for an electrifying journey through decades of music history as Hot Dub spins the biggest anthems, ultimate sing-alongs, and legendary dance floor moments. For more information, visit www.events.humanitix.com.
WEDNESDAY 31 DECEMBER
Maitland New Years Eve at The Levee
Ring in 2026 along the charming banks of the Hunter River this New Year’s Eve. This family friendly celebration offers something for everyone, featuring free entertainment, live music, and a variety of delicious food and dessert trucks and stalls. Join in for a festive evening filled with joy and laughter, culminating in a dazzling fireworks display lighting up the night sky at 9 pm. For more information, visit www.mymaitland.com.au.
6-9PM EVERY FRIDAY STARTING JANUARY
Music in the Podium at Warners Bay Foreshore
Sit back and unwind in an inviting outdoor setting by the lake, and soak in the beautiful sunset with friends. Pack a picnic or indulge in delicious offerings from on-site food trucks and nearby eateries in Warners Bay. This creates a relaxed and casual lakeside atmosphere ideal for enjoying great music and good food. Visit www.facebook.com/musicinthepodium.
THURSDAY 15 JANUARY
The Lumineers at Newcastle Entertainment Centre
The beloved American folk-rockers and 2 x GRAMMY® nominees The Lumineers are back in Australia, bringing their hugely anticipated AUTOMATIC World Tour to the Newcastle stage! Renowned for their soul-stirring live shows and emotive songwriting, this is a show you don’t want to miss! For tickets, visit www.nec.net.au.
TUESDAY 20 JANUARY
Fisherman's Friends at Civic Theatre
The original buoy band from Cornwall is sailing into Newcastle for the very first time. With voices as deep as the Atlantic, the group offer an unforgettable evening of music, storytelling and laughter! For more information, visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au.
FRIDAY 23 – MONDAY 26 JANUARY
Lake Mac Festival on the Shores of Lake Macquarie
The Lake Mac Festival returns this January with a vibrant mix of live music, family-friendly festivals, artisan markets, and community celebrations. Make the most of the Australia Day long weekend and enjoy everything Lake Macquarie has to offer. For more information, visit www.lakemac.com.au.
SATURDAY 24 JANUARY
Red Hot Summer Tour at Speers Point Park
The Red Hot Summer Tour is kickstarting the year with the much-loved singer-songwriter Paul Kelly headlining an unforgettable day of superb live music. Joining him are crowd favourites Missy Higgins, The Cruel Sea, The Cat Empire, Kasey Chambers, and Jess Hitchcock for a celebration of Australia's finest musical talent in one epic lineup. For more info, visit www.redhotsummertour.com.au.
SATURDAY 24 JANUARY
UB40 with Ali Campbell at Civic Theatre
UB40 featuring Ali Campbell returns to Australia for their Big Love World Tour, including one night only in Newcastle! The reggae-pop collective, behind hits like "Red Red Wine" and "Kingston Town," has sold 70 million records and scored 50 UK chart singles. Ali Campbell leads a nine-piece band performing four decades of UB40 material, staying true to the band's authentic reggae roots. For more information, visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au.
SUNDAY 25 JANUARY
Beach 5's Australia Day Weekend Festival
Beach 5s offers an inclusive and fun summer sport that combines Rugby Union and Rugby League on the sand for a weekend of fun! Designed to bring fun and excitement to players and spectators in the warmer months of the year while celebrating the beach culture of our country, you don’t want to miss out. For more information, visit www.beach5s.com.au
SUNDAY 25 JANUARY
Hunter Wedding Expo at Nex Newcastle
If you’re a bride or groom-to-be, and you don’t know where to begin when it comes to wedding planning, look no further! Meet some of the region’s most talented wedding professionals and local businesses all in one place at the Hunter Wedding Fair. Enjoy live music, food and drinks onsite. For more info, visit www.hunterweddingexpos.com.au.
MONDAY 26 JANUARY
Australia Day in Maitland at Various Locations
Celebrate Australia Day at Maitland Park with a day full of fun! Enjoy a free BBQ, craft activities, live entertainment, and free access to Maitland and East Maitland Aquatic Centres. As evening falls, dive into a unique movie experience at the Dive In Cinema at Maitland Pool! Bring your floaties or relax by the poolside for an unforgettable night! For more information, visit www.maitlandevents.com.au.
FRIDAY 30 JANUARY – SUNDAY 1 FEBRUARY
Newcastle Caravan Camping Lifestyle Expo at Newcastle Showground
Experience the freedom of the open road at the Newcastle Caravan Camping Lifestyle Expo, returning for three big days of outdoor adventure inspiration. Explore the latest caravans, motorhomes, campervans, trailers, and tents, plus all the gear you need for your next getaway. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or planning your first trip, it’s the perfect place to start your next adventure. For more info, visit www.caravanexpo.com.
SATURDAY 31 JAN – SUNDAY 1 FEB
Surfest Pro Junior at Newcastle Beach
Head to Newcastle Beach for an action-packed weekend at the Surfest Pro Junior Qualifying Series. Watch the region’s top young surfers take on the waves as they compete for points and a chance to qualify for the World Junior Championships. With great surf, summer vibes, and plenty to see along the shoreline, it’s an event not to be missed. For more information, visit www.surfest.com.
SATURDAY 31 JAN – SUNDAY 1 FEB
Island Triathlon Festival at Griffith Park, Stockton
The Island Triathlon Festival event is staged over three days and includes something for everyone in the family to get involved in! The festival features a sunrise run, suitable for all abilities, allowing participants to walk or run to their best ability for distances of 5km, 10.55km, or 21.1km. It also includes an Aquathlon, a shortcourse Triathlon, a Sprint Triathlon, a Standard Triathlon, and an Aqua Event. The event is open to athletes of all standards and encourages participants to push their fitness to a new level! For more info, visit www.hevents.com.au.
SATURDAY 31 JAN – WEDNESDAY 4 FEB
Kitty Flanagan's 'Glad Game' Tour at Civic Theatre
Award-winning comedian Kitty Flanagan brings her brand-new stand-up show to Newcastle! Expect sharp observations and hilarious takes on life's big questions: Were we actually smarter before social media? Has your call really been used for training purposes? And what on earth is an empath? For more information, visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au.
