What's On Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens & the Hunter Valley | August 2025
- intouch Magazine
- 23 hours ago
- 6 min read
Updated: 19 hours ago
Your complete guide to what's on in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens and the Hunter Valley...
POSTPONED TO 30 AUGUST
Stomp Festival Cessnock at Cessnock TAFE grounds
After a short break, this beloved event returns, featuring local businesses, wineries, breweries, distilleries, food, kids' rides, grape stomping, markets, local produce, and music for the whole family to enjoy! Set in the heart of wine country, it’s a celebration of local flavour and community spirit that is perfect for both locals and visitors. For more information, visit www.visitstompfestival.com.au.
SATURDAY 2 – SUNDAY 3 AUGUST
NRLW Magic Round at McDonald Jones Stadium
Over one massive weekend, more than 60,000 people are expected to converge on Newcastle to experience all the thrilling action of the first-ever NRLW Magic Round. The event will bring together all NRLW teams for a blockbuster showcase of elite women’s rugby league, delivering non-stop excitement, fierce competition, and unforgettable moments both on and off the field. For more information, visit www.nrl.com/tickets/nrlw-magic-round.
TUESDAY 5 AUGUST
Beetle at Performance Arts Culture Cessnock
This charming, nostalgic, and uniquely Australian show invites children and families to join the adventure, encountering larger than-life beetles, stick insects, and other bush critters while discovering the remarkable nature and delicate balance of the bush environment. For more information, visit www.mypacc.com.au.
FRIDAY 8 AUGUST
Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase at Warners Bay Theatre
Featuring a top-tier lineup of Festival favourites and rising stars, this two-hour comedy spectacular is packed with big belly laughs and non-stop entertainment. Grab your mates and get ready for the funniest night of the year. For more information, visit www.arts.lakemac.com.au.
TUESDAY 12 AUGUST
The Simon & Garfunkel Story at Civic Theatre
Loved by audiences in over 50 countries, The Simon & Garfunkel Story is a powerful concert experience charting the duo’s rise from Queens to global fame. Featuring all the classic hits, moving storytelling, and evocative visuals, this critically acclaimed show brings to life the music and friendship that shaped a generation. For more information, visit
WEDNESDAY 13 AUGUST
Keith Urban at Newcastle Entertainment Centre
Global superstar Keith Urban returns home for his first Aussie tour since 2022, featuring country music sensation Chase Matthew! Expect new hits from the High and Alive album alongside fan favourites in an unforgettable, high-energy arena show. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.nec.net.au.
FRIDAY 15 AUGUST
Urzila Carlson ‘You Don’t Say’ Tour at Newcastle Entertainment Centre
Multi-award-winning comedian Urzila Carlson returns to Australian stages in 2025 with her brand-new show You Don’t Say. Packed with her trademark cheeky wit and hilarious storytelling, this tour follows a massive year for Urzila, including voice work in the animated film Ozi and a role in Netflix’s upcoming rom-com Kinda Pregnant. Fresh from a sold-out U.S. debut, Urzila is ready to deliver the laughs in her biggest tour yet! For more information, visit www.nec.net.au.
FRIDAY 15 AUGUST
John Waters: Radio Luxembourg at Warners Bay Theatre
Presented by The Harbour Agency, iconic performer John Waters brings the unforgettable sounds of the British Pop Invasion to life. With Stewart D’Arrietta and The Chartbusters, this powerful show reimagines hits from The Beatles, The Who, The Kinks and more - packed with stories, nostalgia, and irresistible music that defined a generation. For more information, visit www.arts.lakemac.com.au.
FRIDAY 15 – SATURDAY 16 AUGUST
Luke Kidgell - Good Intentions at Civic Theatre
Known for his viral crowd work and hilariously unfiltered interactions, Luke is back with his brand-new show Good Intentions. After touring the US, Canada, NZ, and Europe, he’s returning home to prove that despite his impulsive thoughts, he does mean well! For more information, visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au.
SATURDAY 16 AUGUST
Billy Missi'n Wakain Thamai Exhibit at Museum of Art and Culture, yapang
Celebrate the legacy of Billy Missi, a pioneering Torres Strait Islander artist from Mabuiag Island. Blending traditional carving, storytelling, and fish-bone motifs with contemporary linocut printmaking, Missi helped shape a bold new visual language. His work, grounded in Wagedagam cultural practice, gained international acclaim before his passing in 2012, leaving a lasting impact on Indigenous Australian art. For more info, visit www.mac.lakemac.com.au.
THURSDAY 21 AUGUST
Omega Ensemble: Elevator Music at Civic Theatre
Legendary UK clarinettist Michael Collins joins Omega Ensemble and David Rowden for a bold, genre-blending performance of classical meets contemporary. Featuring Copland’s Clarinet Concerto, Anna Clyde’s Stride, and the world premiere of Graeme Koehne’s Double Clarinet Concerto, this footstomping concert is a high-energy celebration of sound and style. For more information, visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au.
SATURDAY 23 AUGUST
Whisky & Craft Spirits Festival at Bartholomew’s
The Newcastle Starward Whisky & Craft Spirits Festival offers a rare opportunity to sample over 100 premium spirits from more than 30 local and international producers. The festival celebrates whisky, gin, rum, vodka and liqueurs with tastings, expert-led masterclasses, and the exclusive STARWARD VIP Lunch. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or new to the scene, enjoy an afternoon of flavour, discovery, and connection at one of the Hunter’s finest venues. Tickets include tastings, food and a souvenir glass. For tickets or to find more information, visit www.wacsfestival.com.au.
SATURDAY 23 AUGUST
Hunter Valley Highland Games at Saltire Estate
Honour the deep connection between Australia and Scotland at this family-friendly celebration of Scottish heritage in Wine Country. Enjoy traditional games, bagpipes, dancing, and more. Dogs on leashes and kids welcome! Tickets are available for purchase at the gate or online to skip the queue. For more information or to puchase tickets, visit
SATURDAY 23 AUGUST
Dave Hughes at Newcastle City Hall
Comedy legend Dave Hughes returns with his brand-new show - WTF? - an hour of sharp, laugh-out-loud stand-up inspired by the everyday moments that make us all say “What the...?” With his signature Aussie wit and unbeatable stage presence, Hughesy delivers another unmissable performance. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au.
THURSDAY 28 – FRIDAY 29 AUGUST
Impact Dance Festival - Triple Bill
Performance at Warners Bay Theatre The Impact Dance Festival is a Contemporary Dance feast showcasing emerging and professional artists. To kick off the weekend, the festival invites audiences to experience the world premiere of Triple Bill. Performed by Catapult Dance, the show features three bold new dance pieces by leading Australian choreographers Tra Mi Dinh, Anton and Sara Black. For tickets or to view the complete program, visit www.catapultdance.com.au.
FRIDAY 29 – SUNDAY 31 AUGUST
Sculpture on the Farm at Dungog Common
Australia's premier outdoor sculpture exhibition is returning to Dungog Common with over 170 works by 116 artists! Wander the scenic Sculptural Trail discovering large-scale masterpieces, explore the Indoor Exhibition marquee, and meet renowned artists like Deborah Halpern and Gillie and Marc. With nature walks, artist talks, local food, and music, this three-day celebration offers inspiration for all ages. Entry just $10, under 18s free. For more information, visit www.sculptureonthefarm.com.
FRIDAY 29 – SUNDAY 31 AUGUST
Newcastle Outdoor Adventure & Lifestyle
Expo at Newcastle Entertainment Centre Over three jam-packed days, explore the best in outdoor living, such as caravans, camper trailers, 4×4 accessories, camping gear, boating equipment, and much more. Whether you're a seasoned explorer or new to the lifestyle, you'll find inspiration, expert advice, and top-quality products all in one place. Enjoy live expert demonstrations, family friendly entertainment, and discover new travel destinations to kick-start your next big adventure. For more information, visit www.newexpo.com.au.
FRIDAY 29 AUGUST
Resin Workshop at Alletare Dezigns
Unleash your creativity with this hands-on resin art workshop! Perfect for beginners and seasoned crafters, you’ll learn essential techniques and create your own dazzling cheeseboard, coasters, and cheese knives. With expert guidance and high-quality materials, you’ll leave with stunning, handmade pieces and the skills to continue creating. All supplies and refreshments included! For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.allettaredezigns.com.au/shop/art-workshops/3.
FRIDAY 29 – SUNDAY 31 AUGUST
Newcastle Jazz Festival at Newcastle City Hall
The 36th Newcastle Jazz Festival returns to City Hall for three days of world-class music, featuring over 50 bands across four stages. From swing and bebop to blues, gospel, gypsy jazz and more, enjoy an immersive celebration of jazz in all its forms. With artists from across Australia and NZ, plus rising local talent through a new NIMA collaboration, this iconic festival offers something for every jazz lover. For more information, visit www.newcastlejazz.com.au.
