Eco and Education - The Lakes Festival

Things to do

Eco and Education - The Lakes Festival

Things to do

Discover simple ways to protect our environment during The Lakes Festival and join eco-friendly workshops, help keep our waterways clean, and learn why preserving marine wildlife is vital for a thriving ecosystem.

The Lakes Festival returns for its 10th year from 7–16 November 2025, celebrating the Central Coast’s waterways with 10 days of family-friendly activities, cultural events, and educational programs. It’s a chance for locals and visitors to reconnect with the region and enjoy everything our lakes have to offer.

The Itinerary

Eco and Education

Get involved and protect our environment

Sat 9 Nov, 4-9pm, The Entrance

Light Up The Lake

Be amazed by headliner Boo Seeka, with BELLA AMOR, RAAVE Tapes, False London and Daytrip. Fun activities, licensed area, roving performers, and fantastic food, followed by fireworks display that will literally Light Up The Lake!

Sat 9, Sun 10, Sat 16 & Sun 17 Nov, The Entrance

Pelican Time

Join us for a brand new eco-friendly Pelican educational experience that gives locals and guests a unique insight into one of the region's special birds, the Pelican.

Fri 7 - Sun 16 Nov, 10am-2pm weekdays & 9.30-3.30pm on weekends, Terrigal

Marine Discovery Centre Open Day

Visit the CCMDC for free during The Lakes Festival! Enjoy weekday access to explore the centre at your own pace, discovering its exhibits and displays. On weekends, book a free guided tour (limited spots available) for a deeper dive into the centre’s offerings. A perfect outing for all ages! 10am- 2pm week days and 9.30-3.30pm weekends.

Fri 7 - Sat 15 Nov, 2-4pm & 6-8pm, Erina

Salt & Pepperberry

Embark on a culinary adventure celebrating native Australian flavours of pepperberry, lemon myrtle, and saltbush expertly crafted to honour the rich heritage of bush foods. Enjoy these vibrant tastes paired with botanical brews in an immersive experience led by Corey Grech, with support from Six Strings Brewing Co.

Fri 7 - Sun 16 Nov, Coast Wide

Soundscapes Story Trail

Soundscapes is a collection of creative audio stories inspired by natural and magical locations across the Central Coast. Each story has been thoughtfully designed to lead you on an imaginative, immersive, creative adventure in nature. These stories have been created by a range of artists, made up of writers, composers, musicians, and poets who all reside on the Central Coast.

Sat 8 Nov, 9-11am, The Entrance North

Beneath the waves

Explore Tuggerah Lake with Associate Professor Troy Gaston and the University of Newcastle team. Operate an underwater drone (ROV) and view live footage of aquatic habitats. This hands-on activity offers insights into estuaries and coasts, plus the chance to engage with marine science experts and ask questions.

Sun 9 Nov, 9am-3pm, Terrigal

Marine Discovery Family Fun Day

Marine Discovery Family Fun Day invites families to Terrigal Rotary Park and the Marine Discovery Centre for a free, ocean-themed celebration. Enjoy guided tours, kids’ workshops, crafts, face painting, story time, a scavenger hunt, disco, market stalls, live entertainment, and tasty eats. Bookings essential for tours.

Sat 15 Nov, 4-9pm, Terrigal

Marine Magic Outdoor Cinema

Marine Magic Outdoor Cinema transforms Terrigal Rotary Park into a vibrant festival space. Enjoy markets, food stalls, entertainment, and a movie under the stars. Bring a picnic rug or low chairs, grab dinner, and soak up the community vibes. Arrive early for the best spot and pre-movie fun!

Sat 15 Nov, 4-8pm, Avoca Beach

The Wonders of Water

Discover the magic of water at Avoca Lake with The Wonders of Water – Third Edition. Enjoy dance, music, storytelling, visual arts, cultural insights, hands-on workshops, and a sustainable pop-up stage. Celebrate creativity, connection, and community in this free, family-friendly Lakes Festival event by Heartdancers.

Sat 15 Nov, 8.30am-3pm, Tuggerah

Wyong River Catchment Crawl

Join Central Coast Waterwatch as we embark on an exciting bus tour of Wyong River and learn about the health and history of our waterways. Go dip netting for water bugs, learn about the plants and animals that call Wyong River home, including the iconic platypus.

Sat 15 Nov, 10am-3pm, The Entrance

Sustainable Future Festival

Celebrate sustainability at the free, family-friendly Sustainable Future Festival! Enjoy workshops, demos, speakers, and performances that inspire eco-living on the Central Coast. Discover practical ways to reduce waste, protect resources, and connect with your community. A vibrant day of learning and fun for all ages.

Sat 15 & Sun 16 Nov, various times, Ettalong Beach

Bombora SUP Festival

Bombora SUP Festival is back! Join us at Ettalong Beach for a weekend of SUP fun, with SUP Yoga, Sunrise Paddles, SUPball, SUP Races [beginner & Pro], Free kids races and a 10k Challenge! Beginners are welcome, plus there are awesome prizes and giveaways thanks to our amazing local sponsors! Gear provided or BYO board.

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Eco and Education

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Budgewoi

Terrigal

Toukley

Umina Beach

Woy Woy

Avoca Beach

Wyong

Ettalong Beach