The Lakes Festival

This popular annual event will be making a splash across the entire Central Coast between 3-12 November 2023.

This huge 10-DAY celebration of our waterways includes over 30 events at 10 locations and 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.

Light Up The Lake is one of the main events held during The Lakes Festival and is not to be missed on Saturday 4 November, 4pm – 9pm - Memorial Park, The Entrance.

Be amazed by headliners Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers, and The Buoys, as well as RAThammock, Turpentine Babycino, and great local talent Stella Hannagan. Fun activities, roving performers and fantastic food will add to the sense of celebration in the air. Finish the night watching the jetpack show and fireworks display that will literally Light Up The Lake, bought to you by Halekulani Bowling Club!

Main stage program:

4:00pm – 4:02pm - Acknowledgement of Country
4:02pm – 4:05pm - Administrators Address
4:05pm – 4:35pm - Stella Hannagan
4:50pm – 5:35pm - Turpentine Babycino
5:50pm – 6:40pm - RAT!Hammock
7:00pm - 7:50pm - The Buoys
8:10pm – 9:00pm - Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers

There is plenty to keep the whole family entertained!

With aerial performances, Roundabout Circus's Splashabout Showcase, an exploration of water through art, and not to mention artisan markets and delicious local food to try, there is so much to do that will keep the kids and adults entertained during The Lakes Festival.

Be inspired to by the local makers and creators!

From repurposing plastic found in our waterways and creating meaningful murals, to sustainable weaving from local plants and installations to reflect our region, our talented makers and creators will showcase their works encouraging the community to get involved. 

Get outside and enjoy these family friendly outdoors activities

From coastal runs and kayaking ecotours to SUP experiences, dog walks plus scenic flights, the list of adventures for you to undertake is epic!

Live music and roving entertainment, The Lakes Festival has it all!

This year The Lakes Festival is filled to the brim with live comedy acts, bands, roving entertainment and artists. Follow our itinerary to dot your calendars with these fun events.

Something for the adults to enjoy!

From comedy, to cabaret and scenic flights over the Coast, how will you choose what to do first?

What you need to know 

Book and plan ahead

Be sure to check out each event’s dedicated event page to make sure you don’t miss out on some of our exciting events and secure your spot for events that require a booking!

Take a train, ride share or catch a bus!

We recommend you take advantage of public transport when travelling to the festival, so you can spend more time enjoying the events, and less time searching for a car park.
This includes:

Drive safely

Some key roads around event hubs may be affected on event days with delays due to increased traffic. -Please stick to the speed limit and remain vigilant for pedestrians (our events attract a lot of young families). Car parking is available near each location.

Whatever the weather

In the event of wet weather, check our Facebook page or stay tuned to Star 104.5 for updates.

Stay connected!

Stay up to date with all things The Lakes Festival including sneak peaks, event information and much more! Like us on Facebook and follow us using #lakesfestival

• Catching a bus – For detailed bus services please visit Busways website.
• Riding your bike – Check out the shared cycle pathways around the event hubs with our cycling guide. 
• Catching a taxi or Uber
• Walking from your home

The Lakes Festival is proudly presented by Central Coast Council

The Lakes Festival couldn’t happen without the generous support of our sponsors and supporters.

Major Partner

Media Partner

Event Partners