What's On Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens & the Hunter Valley | Spring 2026
- intouch Magazine
- 2 days ago
- 12 min read
Updated: 11 minutes ago
Your complete guide to what's on in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens and the Hunter Valley...
SEPTEMBER 2026
Diesel By Request
Friday 4 September | Civic Theatre
DIESEL's By Request tour is going regional again, and the setlist is entirely up to you. Spanning his career from Johnny Diesel & The Injectors to Bootleg Melancholy, each intimate show is shaped by the audience in real time. No two nights are alike. More info: www.dieselmusic.com.au
Loca Vida
Friday 4 September – Sunday 4 October | Spiegeltent Newcastle (Civic Park)
Pull back the velvet curtain on sky-high artistry and choreography from the acclaimed producers Strut & Fret. As the creators of Blanc de Blanc Encore, this wild, seductive night of world-class circus and entertainment shines inside the glittering Spiegeltent and is set to be a night you won't forget. More info: www.strutnfret.com
Toni Childs 'Greatest Hits Live'
Saturday 5 September | Performance Arts Culture Cessnock
Toni Childs will perform a special two-hour show celebrating her remarkable musical journey. Audiences can look forward to hearing beloved classics including Don't Walk Away, Stop Your Fussin', Zimbabwe, I've Got to Go Now and Because You're Beautiful. More info: www.mypacc.com.au
The Lifespan of a Fact
Wednesday 9 – 12 September | Civic Theatre
Harvard grad Jim Fingal fact-checks celebrated writer John D'Agata's latest essay, only to uncover fabrications from sentence one. Their clash sparks a witty debate on truth versus storytelling. Directed by Patrick Campbell, starring Angela Robertson, James Chapman and Carl Caulfield, this sharp Broadway comedy makes its Newcastle debut.
More info: www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au
Wollombi Valley Sculpture Festival
Saturday 12 – Sunday 27 September | Wollombi Valley
Discover sculpture in unexpected places throughout the historic Wollombi Valley, from village streets to open bushland and vineyards. Featuring leading Australian and international sculptors alongside emerging artists, this celebrated NSW festival offers an outdoor sculpture trail, indoor exhibitions, artist talks, and workshops set among stunning heritage landscapes, with works available for purchase. More info: www.sculptureinthevineyards.com.au
Illuminate
Saturday 19 September | Boomerang Park, Raymond Terrace
Featuring stunning light installations, live entertainment, food and free family-friendly activities, Illuminate is expected to draw over 5000 people in celebration of everything that makes Raymond Terrace unique.
More info: Facebook event page
Macy Gray Live
Saturday 19 September | The Station
Following her sold-out 2024 Australian tour, Macy Gray returns for her largest ever regional tour. Expect a career-spanning celebration of hits from one of soul music's most distinctive and enduring voices.
More info: www.macygraylive.com.au
Living Smart Festival
Saturday 19 September | Speers Point Park
Held on the traditional lands of the Awabakal People, the Living Smart Festival returns to Lake Macquarie to celebrate sustainability with one of Newcastle's largest free community events, now in its 15th year. The festival features live music, multicultural food, hands-on workshops, eco-market stalls and expert talks. With over 10,000 attendees expected, the vibrant, family-friendly day encourages locals to embrace practical sustainability through engaging activities, demonstrations, and local produce. More info: www.lakemac.com.au
Bluey's Big Play
Saturday 19 – Sunday 20 September | Civic Theatre
Bluey's Big Play leaps off the screen and onto the stage! Join Bluey, Bingo, and the whole family in an all-new story from creator Joe Brumm, featuring larger-than-life puppets and original music. When Dad just wants a quiet afternoon on the bean bag, the pups have other plans, sparking a hilarious, heartfelt adventure the whole family will love.
More info: www.blueylive.com
New Annual 2026
Friday 25 September – Sunday 4 October | Across Newcastle
Now in its sixth year, Newcastle's flagship arts festival returns with its biggest program yet: 402 artists, 40 events and seven new commissions across beaches, ocean baths, laneways and parks. Highlights include SOAK: Live at the Baths, four free sunset concerts at Newcastle Ocean Baths curated by Urthboy and featuring Hermitude, 92Wrld and Karen Lee Andrews; Petite Suite, seven intimate theatrical works staged inside the Oriental Hotel; and Izabela Pluta's tide-responsive installation Cavitation at the Canoe Pool. More info: www.newannual.com
Spring School Holidays
Saturday 26 September – Sunday 11 October | Hunter Valley Gardens
Wander ten themed gardens, meet baby lambs, wander through a live butterfly aviary and discover the buzzing world of bees. Little ones will love daisy chain making, face painting and amusement rides, while green thumbs can soak up horticultural talks, bonsai workshops and nursery finds. More info: www.huntervalleygardens.com.au
Brickfest
Saturday 26 – Sunday 27 September | Newcastle Jockey Club
Newcastle Brickfest returns for a full LEGO fan experience. Exhibitors travel from across NSW, QLD, ACT and VIC with breathtaking creations on display, alongside a Play Zone, Speed Build Competition, Minifigure Hunt, cosplayers and a dedicated Sunday morning Sensory Session. Something for everyone.
More info: www.trybooking.com/DIVZE
Boots and Bass
Saturday 26 September | The Valley Brewhouse
Get your boots on this September for a day packed with live country music, from Viper Creek Band, Whiskeyfyre, Dirt Road Tribute Band, and Lucy Watson. Enjoy bucking bull rides, face painting, a jumping castle, and smoked meats, with bands on the lawn from 4:30pm. More info: tvbh.com.au
Taste of the Hunter Valley
Saturday 26 September | The Station
The best of the Hunter Valley comes to the foreshore this Spring, highlighting the local wineries, distillers, chefs and market stalls all in one place. Discover stage tastings, mini golf, lawn games, jumping castles and food trucks, it's a full day out for the whole family. More info: www.events.humanitix.com
OCTOBER
Colour Frenzy Fun Run
Sunday 4 October | Stockton Foreshore
Colour Frenzy's family-friendly colour walk/run is here! Choose your distance with our flexible 1km loop. Complete 1 lap, 2 laps, 3 laps, or go all the way to 5km, suited to all ages and fitness levels. Enjoy colour stations, bubbles and foam, inflatable obstacles, and participation medals. All in support of local animal rescues.
More info: www.colourfrenzy.com.au
Paul Lewis: Mozart+
Wednesday 7 October | Newcastle City Hall
British concert pianist Paul Lewis, acclaimed for his Beethoven and Schubert, now turns to Mozart's piano sonatas; works he believes are unfairly overshadowed by the concertos. This recital juxtaposes them with Poulenc and Debussy, tracing unexpected threads of contrast and connection. More info: www.musicaviva.com.au
Hunter Valley Rodeo
Friday 9 October | Maitland Showground
Get ready, Maitland! The Hunter Valley Rodeo brings world-class bull riding, bronc events, and barrel racing to Maitland Showground. Part of Australia's premier Stampede Series, featuring top cowboys competing for thousands in prize money. Gates open at 4pm, and the rodeo starts at 6pm. Includes food trucks, bars, kids' activities, and live music.
More info: www.nationalrodeoco.com.au
Jazz Music
Friday 9 October | MAP Mima
Experience jazz like never before as a live three-piece ensemble performs inside MAP mima's breathtaking 360-degree projection Cube. Dynamic visuals respond to every note in real time, blurring the boundaries between sound and sight for an unforgettable multisensory experience that places you at the heart of the music.
More info: www.lakemac.com.au
Pseudo Echo
Friday 9 October | Belmont 16s
Prepare to be taken to Funky Town on Pseudo Echo's national tour! Showcasing a dynamic six-piece line-up that promises to elevate the live experience to new heights. Fans can expect an unforgettable blend of pulsating rhythms, electrifying keytars, blazing guitars, and visuals that will transport you back to the vibrant 80s with a modern edge.
More info: www.oztix.com.au
Disney's Frozen The Broadway Musical
Saturday 10 – Sunday 25 October | Civic Theatre
The Very Popular Theatre Company's production of Disney's FROZEN The Broadway Musical brings the animated classic to life with iconic songs like 'Let It Go', plus new numbers written for the stage. Featuring stunning sets, costumes, and special effects set in Arendelle, this celebration of love, courage, and family starring Elsa, Anna, and Olaf is not to be missed. More info: www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au
Festival of Sweet Treats
Sunday 11 October | The Station
Newcastle's sweetest day out is back and better than ever before; packed with cakes, lollies, food trucks, live music, kids' activities, and more. It's a sugar-filled celebration for all ages; don't miss the ultimate dessert lover's dream!
More info: www.festivalofsweetsandtreats.com.au
Strummingbird
Saturday 17 October | Foreshore Park
Strummingbird returns to Newcastle, bringing country music to Awabakal Country for another day of live performances, line dancing, BBQs, and a mechanical bull. Headlined by Tyler Childers and Bailey Zimmerman, with Cooper Alan, James Johnston and more, this festival, from the team behind Spilt Milk, is one for the calendar.
More info: www.strummingbird.com.au/newcastle/
Morisset Lake Macquarie Agricultural Show
Saturday 17 – Sunday 18 October | Morisset Showground
Two days of classic country show await at the Morisset Lake Macquarie Agricultural Show! Enjoy live music, horse events, dog shows, dairy goats, wood chopping, medieval displays, reptile shows, and thrilling competitions including Wife Carrying and Dog High Jumping. Round it all off with a spectacular rodeo and fireworks!
More info: www.morissetshow.org.au
Regency Masquerade
Saturday 17 October | Newcastle City Hall
Crown & Corset invites you to an immersive experience transporting you to the elegance of 1813 in support of White Ribbon Australia, as together we unmask the realities of gender-based violence in Australia.
More info: crowdcatcher.com
Karuah Oyster and Timber Festival
Saturday 17 October | Longworth Park, Karuah
The Karuah Oyster and Timber Festival is an annual celebration featuring championship wood-chopping competitions drawing competitors from across the country, alongside a showcase of the region's finest local oysters and prawns.
More info: Facebook event page
Fernleigh 15
Sunday 18 October | Fernleigh Track
The Fernleigh 15 is a recreational running event for everyone, including runners, walkers, kids and adults, set along the scenic 15km Fernleigh Track from Adamstown to Belmont. Once a rail line, the track now winds through forested backyards and natural beauty across Newcastle and Lake Macquarie. Tackle the full course or in a team, with relay options covering two- to four-kilometre legs. More info: www.fernleigh15.com.au
Pavilion Film Festival
Thursday 22 – Sunday 25 October | MAP Mima
Celebrate bold, independent storytelling through short films, experimental cinema, and immersive audiovisual experiences from local, national, and international filmmakers. Beyond screenings, enjoy Q&A sessions, masterclasses, and workshops. More info: www.lakemac.com.au
Oktoberfest in the Gardens
Saturday 24 October | The Station
Experience the magic of Germany's famous celebration of beer, food, and fun in the luxury of your own home! Arriving in Newcastle for one day of epic bands, DJs, roving performers, and much more, there's entertainment for everyone. Sip on beers from the world's most iconic breweries and feast on mouthwatering pretzels, bratwurst, and pork knuckle.
More info: www.oktoberfestinthegardens.com.au
Mayfield Day
Saturday 24 October | Dangar Park, Mayfield
Join the community for a free, family-friendly day packed with live music, local food and drinks, market stalls, kids' workshops, face painting, and special performances. Bring your friends, family, and furry companions to celebrate everything that makes Mayfield special.
More info: Facebook event page
Christmas Lights Spectacular
30 October 2026 – 26 January 2027 | Hunter Valley Gardens
Hunter Valley Gardens is transforming five hectares into a dazzling world of colour and light for its biggest and most interactive Christmas Lights Spectacular yet. Wander through richly themed festive displays, take a spin on the fairground rides, and grab a bite from the food vendors as roaming performers bring the gardens to life after dark. The season builds to a New Year's Eve fireworks extravaganza.
More info: www.huntervalleygardens.com.au
Walk for Encore
Saturday 31 October | Empire Park, Bar Beach
The Hunter community is invited to walk in support of local women at this annual event, which raises funds and awareness for ENCORE, a free eight-week exercise and education program supporting women recovering from breast cancer surgery and treatment. Everyone is encouraged to register, walk and fundraise, whether in celebration, in support of someone they know, or simply to help more local women access ENCORE.
More info: www.walkforencore2026.raiselysite.com
NOVEMBER 2026
Radium Girls
Thursday 5 – Saturday 7 November | Civic Theatre
Radium Girls tells the haunting true story of 1920s factory women poisoned by radium while painting luminous watch dials, only to face corporate denial and silence as their health failed. Presented by Hunter Drama, this searing play, a co-production with Knock and Run Theatre and The Actors Company, celebrates their courageous fight for justice and truth.
More info: www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au
Killswitch Engage
Thursday 5 November | Bar on the Hill
Celebrating 25 years, Killswitch Engage bring a career-spanning set to Australia and New Zealand, fresh off their new album This Consequence and its hit single. Expect era-defining anthems and new favourites delivered with the intensity that's seen them share stages with Iron Maiden, Slipknot, and more. More info: www.oztix.com.au
Sleap Festival
Saturday 7 November 2026 | Bar Beach Bowling Club
Pull on your best pyjamas and join the Sleap Walk, a family and pet-friendly night of fun, creativity and community. Walk with family, friends or a workplace team, and go in the running for the best dressed prize.
More info: Facebook event page
The Wiggles' Sparkle! Big Show
Saturday 7 November | Newcastle Entertainment Centre
The Wiggles have hit the road again! Join Anthony, Lucia, Simon, Caterina, Lachy, John, Tsehay and Evie, plus favourites like Dorothy, Wags, Henry and Captain Feathersword, for singalongs, laughter and unforgettable family memories.
More info: www.nec.net.au
Darby Street Festival
Saturday 7 November | Darby Street
Celebrate the Newcastle community in the spring sunshine as the beloved Cooks Hill strip transforms into a bustling alfresco precinct, embracing Newcastle's creativity and culture. This free, family-friendly event will feature live music, roving performers, pop-up bars, alfresco dining, markets, and hands-on activities. With the streets closed to traffic, festivalgoers can wander, explore, and enjoy the vibrant spirit of Newcastle's small businesses.
More info: Facebook Page
Crafted Festival
Saturday 7 November | Camp Shortland
Crafted Festival returns to the Foreshore for a full day of craft beer, live music and coastal vibes that the festival has become known for. Featuring a fantastic lineup of brews from across the country that will be on pour, such as lagers, hazies, fresh drops and familiar favourites covering all bases. From first pour through to last call, expect a steady flow of fresh beers, epic live tunes, smoky food vendors serving up festival favourites, and a crowd that knows how to settle in and make a day of it. More info: www.craftedfestival.com.au
Anh Do's The Happiest Refugee Live
Wednesday 11 November | Belmont 16s Sailing Club
Based on the bestselling book, Anh Do brings The Happiest Refugee to the stage, combining stand-up, personal stories, photos and film into an unforgettable night that moves between laughter, emotion and genuine happiness.
More info: www.oztix.com.au
Paint and Sip Sing Along
Thursday 12 November | East Cessnock Bowling Club
Enjoy 60s, 70s and 80s bangers, live vocals from Lotti Rem, singalong moments and cheeky games while you paint step-by-step. No experience needed and all art gear supplied, you'll leave with a finished canvas and a sore voice.
More info: www.paintjuicy.com.au
The Church with the George Ellis Orchestra
Saturday 14 November | Civic Theatre
The Church return with their most ambitious show yet: A Psychedelic Symphony with the George Ellis Orchestra. Backed by a 30-piece orchestra, reimagining beloved classics like Under the Milky Way, Metropolis and Reptile in luxe orchestral form. More info: www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au
Crystals Creatives & Mystics Fair
Saturday 14 – Sunday 15 November | Wallsend Diggers & Mezz Bar
Step into the ultimate indoor, all-weather, family-friendly event bringing together NSW's best makers, readers and healers. Browse crystals and handmade treasures, sit for a reading, join a workshop, or catch a Soul Talk. With kids' activities, henna, and over $1000 in lucky door prizes, there's something for everyone to discover.
More info: Facebook event page
Kim Wilde's Closer Tour
Friday 27 November | Civic Theatre
Pop icon Kim Wilde returns to Australia for The Closer Tour, bringing the hits that defined a generation. From Kids in America to You Keep Me Hangin' On, fans can expect a night packed with chart-topping classics and the electrifying live performance that has kept audiences coming back for decades. More info: www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au
Liquid Therapy: Sunset Beach Bug
Friday 27 November | Allettare Dezigns
Chase the sunset with Liquid Therapy at Allettare Designs. Paint a vintage VW bug parked by a glowing beach sunset. All supplies included, with easy step-by-step guidance perfect for beginners. Bring your favourite drink and nibbles for a relaxed night where the beach meets the brush. More info: www.eventbrite.com.au
The Big Pour Beer & Wine Festival
Saturday 28 November | Club Kotara
Newcastle's latest beer and wine festival is bringing craft beer, premium wines, spirits, live music and local food together for one epic afternoon. Presented with The Bottle-O Lambton, it's the perfect day out for beer lovers, wine enthusiasts and anyone chasing good times. More info: www.clubkotara.com.au
Run Port Stephens
Sunday 29 November | Nelson Bay
Lace up for one of Australia's most scenic running events, set against Nelson Bay's stunning foreshore and parklands. Enjoy coastal views, fresh ocean air and just enough hills to keep it interesting. With Marathon, Half Marathon, 10km, 5km and a 2.5km Fun Run, there's a distance for every ability. More info: www.therunportstephens.com.au
Spring Gig Guide
Date | Artist | Venue |
Thursday 3 September | Davisson Brothers Band | Flamingos Live |
Saturday 5 September | Toni Childs | PACC |
Friday 11 September | MKTO | King Street Hotel |
Friday 2 October | GANGgajang | King Street Hotel |
Friday 9 October | Kesha & Kehlani | Shoal Bay Country Club |
Sunday 11 October | Macy Gray | Shoal Bay Country Club |
Tuesday 13 October | Guttermouth | The Hamilton Station Hotel |
Saturday 17 October | Lazy Eyes | The Stag & Hunter Hotel |
Friday 23 October | Mudhoney | King Street Hotel |
Thursday 29 October | Conrad Sewell | Flamingos Live |
Friday 30 October | Viper Creek Band | Muswellbrook RSL |
Saturday 31 October | Ross Wilson and The Peaceniks | Wests, Nelson Bay |
Thursday 5 November | Killswitch Engage | Bar on the Hill |
Saturday 7 November | Frenzal Rhomb | The Hamilton Station Hotel |
Saturday 14 November | Little Hornet | Flamingos Live |
Spring Market Guide
When | Market | Location / Time |
Every Saturday | Glendale Farmers & Artisan Market | Stockland, Glendale, 8am–2pm |
Every Sunday | Lions Club of Adamstown Market | Cnr of Brunker and Glebe Rd, Adamstown, 6.30am–12pm |
Every Sunday | Newcastle City Farmers Market | Newcastle Showground, 7am–1pm |
First Saturday of the month (5 Sep, 3 Oct, 7 Nov) | Pelican Foreshore Markets | Pelican, 9am–1pm |
First Saturday of the month (5 Sep, 3 Oct, 7 Nov) | The Olive Tree Market | Civic Park, 9am–2pm |
Second Saturday of the month (12 Sep, 10 Oct, 14 Nov) | Homegrown Markets | The Station, 10am–2pm |
First Sunday of the month (6 Sep, 4 Oct, 1 Nov) | Maitland Community Markets | Maitland Showground, 9am–1pm |
We make every effort possible to be correct, however events do change. Please check individual events online before planning.
