What's On Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens & the Hunter Valley | March 2026
- intouch Magazine
- 7 hours ago
- 6 min read
Your complete guide to what's on in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens and the Hunter Valley...
FRIDAY 6 – SUNDAY 8 MARCH
Newcastle Belly Dance Festival at Wallsend Diggers & Mezz Bar
Australia's premier belly dance festival offers workshops for all levels, from beginners to advanced dancers, along with live performances and markets. Led by top Australian teachers and performers, the event covers choreography and technique across various dance styles. For more information, visit www.newcastlebellydancefestival.com.
SATURDAY 7 MARCH
The Big '90s Party at The Station
Dance to iconic anthems with DJs Peewee Ferris, Nick Skitz ft. Kidd Kaos and The Big Party Band. Dress 90's best, compete for prizes, and relive the ultimate decade. Expect a sellout! For more information, visit www.newcastlestation.com.au.
SATURDAY 7 MARCH
Sunset Sounds 4 – Live On the Lake at Toronto Hotel
Triple M Presents Sunset Sounds - Live on the Lake, bringing you the next instalment of Sunset Sounds to Toronto Hotel featuring The Angel, The Radiators, Swanee, DV8 and Mark Gable (Choirboys). Stunning lakeside views, iconic Aussie music, and good vibes all day – what more could you ask for? For more info, visit torontohotel.com.au/live-on-the-lake.
SATURDAY 7 MARCH
The Chopper Ball at Shoal Bay Country Club
The Chopper Ball 2026 fundraiser supports the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service Newcastle. This circus-themed black-tie gala features a three-course dinner, canapés, a beverage package, live music, and entertainment. Enjoy live/silent auctions and raffles with spectacular prizes while supporting your local community's vital rescue service. Brought to you by First National Real Estate Port Stephens. Book now, visit rescuehelicopter.com.au.
SATURDAY 7 MARCH
Mitch Tambo – Storytime and Musical Performance at Rathmines Theatre, Nawayiba
Join Mitch Tambo, the electrifying performer, didgeridoo player, dancer, singer and now author, for a storytime and live performance. Travelling across the country for the I AM ME tour, using music, storytelling and culture to inspire young people and encourage self-belief, this is a storytime you don’t want to miss.
SUNDAY 8 MARCH
Lake Mac Triathlon Festival at Speers Point Park
Swim, cycle and run in the beautiful Lake Macquarie! This welcoming event is perfect for all levels, from juniors and first-timers to experienced athletes. Enjoy calm, protected swimming waters, a flat closed road cycle, and a scenic lakeside run, the perfect place to chase a PB or to cheer on loved ones from the finish line. For more information, visit hevents.com.au/events/lake-macquarie-triathlonfestival.
THURSDAY 12 MARCH
Occasional Combustible Disaster at Playhouse, Civic Theatre
Freddy Ambit faces a crucial decision before turning 18: confess to police as a minor or carry lifelong guilt over a deadly secret. His sibling's return and parents' quarrels can't distract him. Local playwright Daniel Cottier's debut explores nuclear family dynamics with humour and heartbreak. For more information, visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au.
SATURDAY 14 MARCH
Shoal Bay Food & Wine Fest at Shoal Bay Road
This free coastal event showcases some of Shoal Bay's finest local food, wine, and entertainment. Attendees can sample dishes from regional restaurants, wineries, brewers, and distillers while enjoying live performances, cooking demonstrations and activities. Visit www.portstephens.nsw.gov.au.
SATURDAY 14 – SUNDAY 15 MARCH
Festival Of Two Palettes at Morpeth Gallery
The Festival of Two Palettes is a unique celebration of art and food, offering a rich cultural experience that blends creativity and culinary pleasure. Watch Australia's finest artists paint original works at their easels and enjoy gourmet food tastings downstairs at Morpeth Gourmet Foods, featuring fudge, cordial, and honey. For more information, visit www.morpethgallery.com.au.
SATURDAY 14 MARCH
A Little Bit of Broke at Multiple Venues Across Broke Fordwich
Discover the most incredible food, wine, and fresh produce the Hunter Valley has to offer at this festival-style weekend in the beautiful venues of Broke Fordwich. This showcase aims to encourage visitors to return to the fabulous participating locations outside the experience. Whether you’re into wine, gin and tonic, cocktails or anything else, there’s something to please everyone! For more info or to get tickets, visit www.brokefordwich.com.au.
TUESDAY 17 MARCH
Bernard Fanning - Tea & Sympathy 20th Anniversary Tour at Civic Theatre
Bernard Fanning celebrates Tea & Sympathy's 20th anniversary with an Australian tour, with an exceptional performance in Newcastle. Following a sold-out QPAC show that sold out in two minutes, Fanning will be joined by special guests Sam Cromack from Ball Park Music and Georgia Mooney from All Our Exes Live in Texas. Book now, visit www.civictheatre.com.au.
THURSDAY 19 MARCH
The Rions at King Street Hotel
Following their #1 debut album Everything Every Single Day, Sydney indie favourites The Rions are hitting the road for a massive 19-date regional tour. The Everywhere Every Single Day Tour spans WA, VIC, NSW, QLD, and TAS from February to April 2026, featuring new songs and support from Chloe Parché. For more info, visit www.kingstreetnewcastle.com.au.
SUNDAY 22 MARCH
Newcastle Chilli Festival at The Station
The weather may have cooled down, but things are about to heat up! Mark your calendar for the Hottest Day in Newcastle at The Station! If you're a fan of all things spicy, this event is made for you. Chilli lovers will be in paradise with an array of chilli products, fiery food options, and even a chilli-eating competition for the brave. For more information, visit the Facebook Event.
THURSDAY 26 MARCH
Newcastle Fabulous Ladies Wine Soiree at Signal Box
Third-generation winemaker Natalie Pizzini debuts in Newcastle, featuring an eight-wine tasting with a multi-course dinner, hosted by Pizzini and FLWS founder Jane Thomson OAM. Guests will enjoy Italian wines from Prosecco to Nebbiolo, plus prizes and networking opportunities. For more information, visit fabulousladieswinesociety.com.
SATURDAY 28 MARCH
One Act Play Festival at Warners Bay Theatre, Baramayiba
The Lake Macquarie One Act Play Festival is a vibrant theatre competition featuring a series of short one-act plays written and submitted by local, national and international playwrights. The festival, directed by Charlotte De Wit, highlights local talent and promotes the region’s arts scene. Reserve your tickets at www.arts.lakemac.com.au
SATURDAY 28 MARCH
Rocking The Green at Stockton Bowling Club
Five incredible bands, one epic location, and a whole day of live music await. Experience tributes to legends, including The Whispering Jack Show, Elton John, Damnation and a '90s throwback with All Access, and Fabba's ABBA celebration. Get ready for non-stop entertainment, good vibes, and great company in this ultimate tribute band lineup. For more info, visit stocktonbowlingclub.com.au.
SATURDAY 28 MARCH
Newcastle Beer Festival at King Edward Park
Returning for its 10th year of chaos, Newcastle Beer Fest is back for its next round of sun, fun, and beers. Prepare for a fantastic lineup of beers, great vibes, live music and moments you'll remember. The event will feature a diverse selection of beverages from a range of independently owned Australian brewers, with a variety of delicious food vendors. Grab your picnic blanket, gather your friends, and get your tickets now! For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.newcastlebeerfest.com.au.
SATURDAY 28 MARCH
Soundbites Food & Wine Festival at Newcastle Racecourse
Prepare for a full-day celebration of the region’s best chefs, wineries, brewers, distillers and producers, paired with live music, tastings, live chef demonstrations with Miguel Maestre and six local chefs and headline entertainment from Hindley Street Country Club. For more info, visit www.newcastleracecourse.com.au.
SATURDAY 28 – SUNDAY 29 MARCH
Sailfest at Newcastle Harbour
Whether you’re looking for a fun weekend activity or are someone who enjoys walking the foreshore, SailFest has something to show you. As Newcastle’s celebration of sailing, the event promotes life on the water to the local community. With race locations across Newcastle, it will be easy to find a spot to watch the event unfold. For more information, visit sailfest.com.au.
SUNDAY 29 MARCH
Hill To Harbour at Bar Beach to Carrington
Whether you're an avid runner or just looking for a fun day out, this event offers something for everyone. The 12km course takes you on a breathtaking journey from Bar Beach to Carrington, showcasing the city's stunning coastline. For those seeking a shorter challenge, the Halfa Hill to Harbour 6km event is the perfect fit, and the 2K-4-FUN is ideal for kids or those wanting a more relaxed pace. For more information, visit www.hilltoharbour.com.au.
SUNDAY 29 MARCH
My Greatest Walk at Dixon Park
Myeloma Australia's My Greatest Walk 2026 invites thousands nationwide to raise funds and awareness for myeloma. Participants receive a complimentary t-shirt with their ticket and enjoy a family and pet-friendly community event. Following 2025's success with over 2,200 walkers across 30 locations, the walk supports research and those affected by myeloma. Register now, visit shop.myeloma.org.au.
