Public listings checked 25/10/2026. Dates use each event’s local time. Check organiser details before travelling.
Explore the region
Explore Lake Macquarie's lakeside towns and ocean beaches. The lake spans several communities; Newcastle and the Central Coast are separate destinations.
Listings across Belmont, Boolaroo, Catherine Hill Bay, Caves Beach, Charlestown, Morisset, Rathmines, Speers Point, Swansea, Toronto, Wangi Wangi, Warners Bay.
Upcoming events
16 matching events listed in the next 60 days. Admission prices are shown where supplied.
History Illuminated is Lake Macquarie's annual celebration of people, place and the environment through the lens of history.
Each November, the festival brings together authors, historians, artists and community voices for a dynamic program of talks, exhibitions, performances, tours and workshops.
Whether you're passionate about local heritage, curious about untold stories, or love a good yarn, History Illuminated invites you to explore the past in creative and thought-provoking ways.
Known for the soaring anthems of Little Birdy and the richly layered production of her solo work, Katy returns to where every song begins, revealing the heart of the music in its purest form.
Expect a raw, unfiltered performance with Katy stripped bare on stage. In an intimate duo setting, the songs are returned to their purest form- voice, piano, guitar and nothing to hide behind.
The Undressed album is a conscious unravelling of everything Katy has released before, featuring stripped-back interpretations of songs from her solo catalogue, beloved Little Birdy favourites, and timeless covers including Patti Smith's Because The Night, Lou Reed's Perfect Day, and Michael Jackson's Ben.
Written by award-winning Australian playwright Kieran Carroll and performed by acclaimed Melbourne actor, Paul Armstrong, NEWK (The John Newcombe Story) traces the life of the great Australian tennis champion of the 1960s and 70s, John Newcombe. NEWK has been a big hit all over NSW and Victoria since 2019.
Set in 2024 at Newk's 80th birthday in Sydney, Newcombe's journey travels from naïve 1960s schoolboy, to the No 1 player in the world in the 1970s, to his time as Davis Cup Captain, to the stroke he suffered in 2003.
Numerous well-known guests drop by to celebrate his special day and share the memories. Both drama and comedy, the play portrays a highly determined and ambitious man burning through a quickly changing world. Aware he's putting his family second emotionally while conscious of providing for them financially, the play exposes the exhausting schedules that even players of yesteryear endured. Volatile off-court politics are also rife as the game moves into full blown professionalism.
The play also captures hilarious moments from some of Newcombe's numerous commercials and business enterprises: Cinzano, bananas, Canon cameras and K-Tel tennis instruction albums!
Welcome to the inaugural Lake Macquarie Outdoor Living and Caravan Expo! Where adventure starts!
A must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts for over a decade, they're now bringing the excitement to the Morisset Showgrounds. You'll find a showcase of the latest in caravans, camper trailers, 4x4 gear and all things outdoor living – all in one place.
With exclusive show-only deals, industry experts and all the biggest brands in one place, this is your chance to gear up for your next escape.
Whether you're hitting the road or setting sail, get ready to explore, dream and discover!
Discover Lake Macquarie's creative community at Lake Mac Open Studios, with more than 80 artists across 35 studios opening their doors to the public for one weekend only.
Meet local artists, step inside the spaces where their work is created and get a behind-the-scenes look at their creative processes. Explore studios across Lake Macquarie, discover painting, sculpture, ceramics, textiles, jewellery and more, and purchase unique artworks and handmade pieces directly from the artists.
Haydn's London Symphonies reimagined: intimate, vibrant, and full of surprises.
Haydn's London Symphonies: Part 1
Part 1! How enticing. If a CD revival eventually eclipses the current vinyl vogue, can everyone look forward to a 300th birthday /Brisbane Olympics "boxed set" of all 12 by 2032?
Violinist and impresario Peter Salomon was the guardian angel (slash shrewd businessman) who put Haydn on a boat to London after a younger "less enlightened" (ok, philistine) Esterházy sacked all his musicians and kept the composer on for domestic duties. English audiences went wild, symphonies poured out and sterling poured in but these "tours" represented a genuine sea-change in music history: the fans were middle to upper-middle class music lovers, not diversion-seeking aristocrats. And in the absence of a foyer CD (let alone vinyl) stall, they were all ravenous to listen again at home. So… you guessed it, Salomon added a lucrative by-line in downsized arrangements for amateur parlour use.
As AHE listeners will know, these versions, often for string sextet and flute, are a long way from pale imitations: newly imagined for the medium, they are actually a refreshing listen when compared to the brass and drum heavy "warhorse" school of orchestral playing.
An exciting, dramatic and thoroughly satisfying season's end.
The Australian Haydn Ensemble is well known for its thrilling performances of historical chamber arrangements of large-scale symphonies. Performed up close and on historical instruments, they bring you as close as possible to the sound-world that composers like Beethoven and Haydn knew and loved.
Be amazed at what the seven superb musicians of the Australian Haydn Ensemble create, in this all-Haydn program.
Anh Do's bestselling book The Happiest Refugee has made readers laugh and cry. Anh's stage show takes it a step further, combining stand-up comedy with real-life stories, photos and filmed pieces to retell his amazing story.
When one of Australia's most talented comedians delves deep into his own life's joys and sorrows, the result is an unforgettable night at the theatre that leaves an audience uplifted and quite simply experiencing happiness.
Warners Bay Markets are held on the second Saturday of every month.
With a fabulous array of stallholders, selling everything from homewares, fashion, pet supplies, plants and street food.
Take in the scenic backdrop of Lake Macquarie whilst you browse.
Pet and child friendly.
Come along to the Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima and enjoy a free morning of fun and art.
Enjoy a unique story time on the big screen followed by fun hands-on activities. With projection and digital stories, artmaking and shadow play.
Suitable for children aged 2-5 years.
Digitales is held on the third Thursday of the month from February-November 2026.
Get ready to cast a line on Australia's largest coastal saltwater lake when Let's Fish Lake Mac returns.
This annual catch-and-release competition invites anglers of all ages to fish the beautiful waters of Lake Macquarie for bream, flathead, tailor and whiting, whether from the shore or a boat. Simply catch your fish, take a photo, release it, and try to land an even bigger one.
This year there's AUD52,000 worth of prizes up for grabs, including a major prize of a Quintrex 390 Explorer powered by a Mercury 25hp outboard motor.
Plus, every entry goes into the draw to win one of 14 fantastic prize packs, and if you enter before 19 November 2026, you'll also go in the running to win a three-night Lake Macquarie getaway for four people valued at AUD2,400.
The rules are simple. Choose when you, your mates or the family want to fish across the competition weekend and enjoy two days of fun on the water.
Entry is just AUD35 per competitor and includes a competition sticker and brag mat.
Fish, snap, release and win at Let's Fish Lake Mac.
Visit the website for more information and to enter.
This event offers swimmers the opportunity to race in the calm waters of one of the state's premier open water destinations. Whether you're taking on your first open water event or building towards bigger goals, this welcoming event provides the perfect opportunity to test yourself in a safe and enjoyable environment.
Designed for swimmers of all abilities, the accurately measured 2.5km course allows experienced competitors to chase a personal best, while newcomers can enjoy a supportive introduction to open water swimming in a stunning natural setting.
Friends, family and supporters can soak up the atmosphere from the open parklands surrounding the course, with excellent viewing opportunities to cheer swimmers on throughout the event. Combined with the vibrant community feel and picturesque lakeside location, it's an event that offers just as much enjoyment onshore as it does in the water.
Whether you're racing, supporting or simply looking for a great day out by the lake, the Swimming NSW 2.5km Classic promises an unforgettable open water experience.
Chipmunks Playland and Café Belmont is a vibrant indoor play centre designed for children aged 0–11, offering a safe, fun and engaging environment for families in the Lake Macquarie region. The centre is thoughtfully divided into three age-appropriate zones: a Baby Zone for little ones aged 0–2, a Mini Zone for toddlers aged 0–4, and a large Main Zone for older children up to 11. Each space is packed with colourful play equipment, climbing structures and a giant ball pit that keeps kids entertained for hours.
One of the standout features of Chipmunks Belmont is its flexibility - there are no time limits on play, so families can stay as long as they like without feeling rushed. The venue is fully enclosed, air-conditioned and designed with safety in mind, giving parents peace of mind while their children explore and play.
Chipmunks Belmont is also a popular destination for birthday parties, offering packages to suit every celebration style, including Basic, Bash and Bonanza options. With a variety of fun themes available, families can create a memorable party experience with minimal stress.
For larger celebrations, private venue hire is available, giving guests exclusive access to the entire centre.
Alongside the play areas, the on-site café serves freshly made food and barista-quality coffee, making it just as enjoyable for adults as it is for kids.
The baths are a great facility for people who enjoy swimming or simply relaxing by the beautiful lake.
The facility incorporates protective mesh on all three sides, which encourages people to use the area for swimming.
The area includes a new jetty that is 70 metres long, with a 45-metre-wide swimming enclosure and an access ramp to a deep-water platform for people with mobility restrictions.
There are toilet facilities, cold showers, picnic tables and undercover areas.
The amenities building also stores a mobi aquatic chair to borrow for wheelchair access into the baths (available upon council request).
Nearby is a playground, ping pong table and cafes.
Fernleigh Awabakal Shared Track (FAST) is a scenic extension of the popular Fernleigh Track, offering locals and visitors a peaceful route through the stunning Belmont Wetlands State Park and Belmont Lagoon Reserve.
Perfect for walking, running, and cycling, this shared path connects Belmont to Blacksmiths, improving access to nature while supporting active lifestyles. Whether you're a local looking for a new way to explore or a visitor wanting to experience the beauty of the area, the FAST track is an ideal choice for outdoor recreation.
Together, the Fernleigh Track and the Fernleigh Awabakal Shared Track provide a 27-kilometre continuous active transport route from Adamstown to Murrays Beach. The Fernleigh Awabakal Shared Track forms part of the Coastline R1 Regional Cycleway, part of the Greater Newcastle Principle Bicycle Network.
Features include an elevated boardwalk over Belmont Lagoon and a birdwatching loop.
Start at the southern end of the existing Fernleigh Track in Belmont, with parking available near the old Belmont railway station or join the track from the Pacific Highway at Blacksmiths, making it convenient for surrounding areas.
Green Point Foreshore Reserve is a scenic lakeside destination connecting Belmont and Valentine, offering a mix of easy foreshore walks, bushland trails, picnic areas, and stunning lake views.
Visitors can enjoy a flat, shared pathway suitable for prams, wheelchairs, bikes, and scooters, or explore bush tracks with stairs and boardwalks winding through eucalyptus forest and small rainforest pockets.
Highlights include the grassy lakeside point, a public jetty, and elevated lookouts such as Sea Eagle Lookout and Rocky High, which provide panoramic views across Lake Macquarie and are known for sightings of white‑bellied sea eagles.
With picnic shelters, barbecues, toilets, calm waters for fishing and paddling, and interpretive signage sharing the area's coal‑mining and timber history, Green Point is an ideal destination for families, walkers, and nature lovers seeking a relaxed outdoor experience by the lake.
Dogs are not permitted in the reserve or along the walking track.
The lakeside boardwalk on Pirrita Island showcases the unique landscape and heritage of Swansea foreshore.
The 250-metre boardwalk crosses Pirrita Island's mangroves and looks out over the turquoise waters of Swansea Channel.
'Pirrita' is the Awabakal word for oysters from the mangroves, while Miners Point references the coal mining families who lived on the island throughout the 1900s.
Interpretive signage has been installed along the boardwalk, showcasing the heritage of the area, as well as the unique flora and fauna that call the island home.
As well as this new edition, the existing car park on the western side of Pirrita Island has been upgraded to improve access. A new outdoor fitness trail has also been installed along Channel Street between Swansea Swim Centre and Thomas Humphreys Reserve.
Redhead Beach is at the northern end of a nine mile stretch of coastline, and is known for its stunning cliffs, rocky outcrops and shark tower. Redhead is patrolled in the warmer months, is home to the Redhead Surf Life Saving Club, and is popular with swimmers and surfers alike.
Plenty of parking is available as well as public toilets and cafe "Cargo Espresso Bar".
Dog friendly with designated on - leash and off - leash areas.
Nearby is the pump track for keen bikers and skateboarders, Webs Park playground and Owens Walkway which is an easy boardwalk and wheelchair accessible.
Based in Rathmines Theatre, Rathmines Heritage Centre hosts a range of exhibitions focused on the history of Rathmines RAAF base and the wider story of Lake Mac during World War II.
Rathmines RAAF seaplane base played an essential role in the defence of Australia during WWII. From 1939 – 1962 thousands of people and hundreds of seaplanes operated and trained at the base.
Rathmines RAAF seaplane base is the most intact surviving example of its type in Australia. Established in 1939 the base was the main centre for training during World War II. It was the largest flying boat base established in Australia and considered to be the ‘headquarters’ of flying boat operations during the war.
Rathmines Heritage Centre tours are by appointment only.
Explore the history of Rathmines further along the Rathmines RAAF Base Heritage Trail, a 1.1 kilometrem trail through Rathmines Park and along the foreshore of Catalina Bay.
For further information about the importance of Rathmines RAAF base please visit the Lake Mac History website, which has a large and comprehensive archive of oral histories, photographs and documents.
This beautiful heritage venue is brimming with character and history. In 2019 Rathmines Theatre – along with Rathmines Heritage Centre – was refurbished as a unique and memorable space for live performances, exhibitions, festivals and as well as corporate events and private functions. The old boiler room has been repurposed as a charismatic bar space where audiences love to grab a drink before the show.
The Rathmines Theatre is a 200-capacity theatre available for professional and amateur musical, theatre, dance, and cultural groups to host and perform quality stage productions.
Toronto Baths is a much‑loved lakeside swimming spot set along the scenic foreshore of Lake Macquarie, popular with families and locals alike.
Following upgrades completed in October 2024, the historic baths (operating since 1925) are now fully enclosed and feature new jetty decking, safety netting, multiple entry points, and an accessible ramp with handrails, creating a safer and more inclusive swimming experience.
Visitors can enjoy a range of on‑site amenities, including toilets, outdoor showers, shaded picnic areas, and nearby parking. With cafés, the Toronto Foreshore Playground, and the revitalised waterfront promenade all within easy walking distance, Toronto Baths is an ideal place to swim, relax, and take in the tranquil lake views.
Lake Macquarie’s love affair with outdoor art is nowhere better on display than with the Creative Lake Sculpture Trail, a five-kilometre trail linking larger-than-life artworks along the foreshore.
In the popular precincts of Speers Point, Warners Bay and Eleebana, you’ll discover an eclectic collection of contemporary artworks – from sculptures to conceptual installations and 3D murals – by Australian and international artists including Guan Wei, Guy Maestri, Alex Seton, Naidee Changmoh and Antone Bruinsma.
You can walk, bike and even rollerblade between the sites via the Warners Bay Foreshore Shared Pathway, or drive between them with on and some off-street parking available
Download the Culture Trails guide from the Lake Macquarie City Council website to not only discover what you might see while wandering the route but also explore other Lake Macquarie cultural highlights, including galleries and historic sites.
This serene bushwalk through towering trees gives you the feeling you’re a million miles away from the suburbs, though it’s not too far away at all. Listening to the birds feeding on the eucalypt blossoms, looking up at the huge eucalypts, and seeing the lake shimmer in the sunshine is a wonderfully relaxing experience.
Birdwatchers will also enjoy admiring the waterbirds along the way, such as cormorants, white-faced herons, and white-breasted sea eagles. Wildflower-lovers should come in spring or in winter to look for orchids. And when you’re on the shores of the lake, look carefully for sea turtles swimming around in the shallows.
This reserve is a peaceful natural area designed for passive recreation, with walking trails that protect the environment while showcasing diverse vegetation and scenic viewpoints. Two lookouts provide expansive views over Lake Macquarie, adding beautiful stops along the way.
The tracks wind through bushland filled with wattles, coastal banksia and orchids, leading to lookouts across to Pulbah Island. Wildlife is abundant, visitors may spot green sea turtles, dolphins, sea eagles, squirrel gliders, kangaroos, lorikeets and even the threatened pied oystercatcher.
There are four walks to choose from, offered as both linear and loop tracks. They range from 20 minutes to one hour, covering 500 metres to 2.2 kilometres, with easy to moderate grades. All walks begin at the main car park, and as part of the Lake Macquarie State Conservation Area, pets and open fires are not permitted.
Please note, there are no toilets or drinking water, so prepare before you arrive.
Wangi Point Holiday Park, boat ramp and jetty are in close proximity.
