Catch the incredible Ruby Fields (NSW) headlining a night of epic tunes, alongside the vibey sounds of Dear Sunday (WA), Dizzy Days (QLD), Chloe Parché (NSW), and Elaskia (NSW).
But that’s just the beginning! Dive into a world of fun activities, roving performers, and mouth-watering eats that’ll keep you buzzing all evening.
And when the stars come out, the sky will explode with colour in a spectacular fireworks show that will literally Light Up The Lake, proudly brought to you by Halekulani Bowling Club!
Accessibility: Memorial Park has accessible toilets and changing facilities, accessible play spaces, accessible parking, and connectivity to shops and restaurants on the Waterfront Plaza. There will also be a mobile sensory room with an occupational therapist available to help for the duration of the event.
Main Stage
Catch the incredible Ruby Fields (NSW) headlining a night of epic tunes, alongside the vibey sounds of Dear Sunday (WA), Dizzy Days (QLD), Chloe Parché (NSW), and Elaskia (NSW).
Eat & Drink
Feast your way through delicious meals and sweet treats from some of the region’s favourite food trucks, plus all the tasty options from the waterfront restaurants at The Entrance. Whether you're craving something savoury or sweet, we've got your taste buds covered!
Cheers to good times!
Adults can kick back with a refreshing selection of alcoholic beverages in the licensed area. It’s the perfect spot to relax, soak up the vibes, and enjoy the night, but just be mindful that capacity is limited and is strictly 18+!
Roving Entertainment
Watch as roving LED performers light up the night, shimmering with colour, sparkle, and pure magic! Towering on stilts, they’ll glide through the crowd, creating unforgettable moments and glowing interactions that bring the whole event to life.
Activities
There are plenty of activities for the kids at this year’s Light Up the Lake!
From crafty fun like painting nature-themed pebbles and building colourful windmills, to face painting and messy play, there’s something for every little adventurer.
Let them burn off energy at the Mega Play Climbing Centre, and if they’re feeling overwhelmed, they can take a break with some sensory play, or for our special needs guests they can access the exclusive mobile sensory room — perfect for resetting nervous systems after all the excitement!
Education & Information
- Make a splash at the Water & Sewer Education Tent! Test your knowledge with fun activities and learn all about the water systems that keep our community flowing!
- Splash into learning at the Waterways Education Stall! Enjoy hands-on activities and meet Parker the Platypus!
- Learn about our region’s rich biodiversity with the Natural Assets and Biodiversity Team,and sign up for the Environmental Volunteering Program to help protect it.
- Join the crew making waves for ocean conservation! Visit Sea Shepherd’s powerful display to discover how you can take action to protect our oceans.
- Meet the heroes behind the hose! Firefighters from Fire NSW will be on-site to share essential home fire safety tips and answer all your burning questions.
- Dive into safety with our local surf lifesavers! Volunteers from Surf Life Saving Central Coast will be showcasing their rescue gear and sharing expert tips to help you stay safe in the water as the weather heats up.
- Ocean Beach SLSC ‘Ask me How to be Safe at the Beach’
The Lakes Festival is celebrating its tenth year! This popular annual event will be making a splash across the entire Central Coast between 7-16 November 2025.
This huge 10-day celebration of our waterways brings locals and visitors together to enjoy exciting family-friendly activities, cultural and educational programs hosted by local organisations and businesses.
The Lakes Festival is a great opportunity for everyone to get out and about, rediscover some places right on your doorstep and celebrate our diverse lakes and waterways with your family and friends.
Click here for the full program.
