The Central Coast’s award-winning and much-loved Lakes Festival returns from 7–16 November 2025, celebrating 10 years of bringing people together to learn, play and celebrate our waterways.

This year’s milestone event features over 25 events across 11 locations, offering something for everyone, with live music and outdoor adventures, to art, education, and family fun.

Festival highlights

🎤 Light Up the Lake – Saturday 8 November
The festival’s flagship event returns to Memorial Park, The Entrance, for one unforgettable night of live music, food, and fireworks. Headlined by Ruby Fields, Dear Sunday, Dizzy Days, Chloe Parche, and Elaskia, this lakeside concert will be packed with roving performers, food trucks, and a spectacular fireworks finale that will literally Light Up the Lake!

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly fun
From Cinema Under the Stars and eco-kayak tours to interactive art installations and Pelican education experiences, the festival offers a diverse program designed to entertain and inspire all ages.

🎨 Celebrate local culture
The Lakes Festival is a platform for local artists, performers, and businesses to shine. Events like the Postcard Art Show, Plein Air painting by the lake, and community-led workshops showcase the creativity and spirit of the Central Coast.

⚽ Sports and outdoor
From coastal runs and kayaking ecotours to SUP experiences, beach netball and soccer, the list of adventures for you to undertake is epic!

🌱 Sustainability at heart
The festival continues to lead with purpose, having completed the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard with Ecotourism Australia. Initiatives include eco-friendly merchandise, wildlife protection messaging, and the use of PEFC-certified paper.

The Lakes Festival was recently awarded for Innovation in Special Events at the 2025 LGNSW Awards, recognising its creative and community-driven approach.

With record-breaking participation and new event hubs added each year, the festival continues to grow in scale and impact.

Be sure to join the adventure! Explore the program at lovecentralcoast.com/lakesfestival