The Central Coast Makers Trail celebrates the artisan food and drink trail that will thrill you with new sensations and behind the scenes experiences. With 13 makers offering a unique insight into their craft, the self drive tour takes you around the Central Coast where you can sample amazing food and drink while taking in the region's most spectacular scenery.

Step behind NSW's only Pearl Farm and discover the rare Akoya pearls nurtured in Brisbane Waters and the Hawkesbury River for nearly two decades. From behind the Shellar Door meet the local pearl markers as they share stores and tales and showcase the precious pearls and jewellery. Enjoy delicious local oysters while overlooking the picturesque Hawkesbury and book an experience to learn about the history and secrets of pearl farming in our local waterways. 

Step inside Gosford's coffee roastery the 'Slowbbar' and as the name suggests this is a unique space to expereince special coffees slow roasted by Legend. Shop for speciliaty beans after you have learned about the production, the roasting and brewing. 

Award winning beers, ales, IPAs and ginger beers are what you can expect to find at Six String Brewing. The craft brewery amplifies itself to creating new and different ales, and you can learn about this on brewery tour seeing firsthand what goes into brewing on a small scale, tasting the end result as you go. Head to the Taproom where 12 taps of ever-changing beers await and take a seat in rustic warehouse restaurant to tuck into a tasty lunch.

The sweetest place on the Coast will be a mouthwatering experience for chocolate lovers.  Learn first-hand how the factory creates nougat, marshmallows and decadent chocolates on the guided factory tour or book an exclusive chocolate workshop to learn the art of tempering chocolate from an experienced chocolatier. Shop the shelves for sweet treats in the rustic style retail store and with free tastings available, we are sure you will go home with a range of quality tasty delights!

Tucked away amongst tranquil and enchanting fragrant gardens in Erina is Distillery Botanica, an award winning distillery where you can indulge in sensory delights and immersive experiences. Set on 3 acres, walk the garden to see the diverse array of plants and herbs, learn about the distillery process and taste the gin, spirits and liqueurs discovering their unique flavours.

Be amazed by headliner Ruby Fields, with Dear Sunday, Dizzy Days, Chloe Parche and Elaskia. Fun activities, licensed area, roving performers, and fantastic food, followed by fireworks display that will literally Light Up The Lake!

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.

Acoustic Life of the River celebrates the embedded stories reflected along the waterways of the Lower Hawkesbury River. Step aboard for a river journey winded through sandstone cliffs and untold histories. Departing from Spencer.

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.

Sea Food Fest debuts at Canton Beach with fresh seafood, global flavours, market stalls, and lakeside fun. Enjoy cooking demos, kids’ activities, and a guided paddleboard tour of Tuggerah Lake. Bring your floatie or kayak for the colourful parade. 

 Bouddi Coastal Run offers breathtaking trail views across Bouddi National Park. Choose from 14km or 21km runs, plus a 1km kids’ beach dash. Explore Putty Beach, Maitland Bay, Bombi Point and more. With limited entries, this popular summer event promises scenic trails, community spirit, and unforgettable coastal adventure. 

 Nautical Country sets sail on the Hawkesbury River with live performances by Andrew Swift and Bryce Sainty. Enjoy scenic river views, smooth tunes, drinks, and cheeky banter aboard the Zarapito. Hosted by Ronnie Tee & Jaq, it’s a golden hour cruise for country fans and good-vibe seekers alike.

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. 

Experience coastal fun at Avoca Beach with Swell Times! Enjoy beach sports, surf lessons, creative workshops, local stalls, tasty eats, and live music. Join a community cleanup and learn beach safety. Whether you're a wave rider or beach lover, this family-friendly event has something for everyone. 

 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.

Clambake in My Waters is a bold cabaret by Glitta Supernova, blending mythology, ecology, and magic. Featuring local and national performers as water spirits and sea creatures, this immersive waterfront show celebrates our lakes and estuaries through circus, music, and transformation.

 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.

 Cooking with the Coast explores sustainable, healthy, and tasty local marine foods. Join chef Phil Davy and University of Newcastle experts for simple, delicious recipes using local ingredients. Learn, cook, and enjoy your creation! All ages welcome. 

Be amazed by headliner Ruby Fields, with Dear Sunday, Dizzy Days, Chloe Parche and Elaskia. Fun activities, licensed area, roving performers, and fantastic food, followed by fireworks display that will literally Light Up The Lake!

 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.

Zumba Kids brings high energy dance to lakeside suburbs with radio hits and global rhythms. Families enjoy interactive fun, exploring cultures through movement, from traditional dances to unifying beats. This vibrant show blends education, celebration, and fitness, making it the perfect way to dance.

 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.

 The Entrance Markets return to Memorial Park with farm-fresh produce, handmade goods, delicious food, and live entertainment. Set along the picturesque foreshore, this vibrant showcase of local creativity and community spirit offers the perfect Sunday outing for families and friends.

This relaxed, jam style event includes circus and flow props, guided workshops, and space to move, connect, and play. It’s open to all ages and experience levels, with a warm, community first energy that makes it easy to join in or simply enjoy the atmosphere. 

Experience coastal fun at Avoca Beach with Swell Times! Enjoy beach sports, surf lessons, creative workshops, local stalls, tasty eats, and live music. Join a community cleanup and learn beach safety. Whether you're a wave rider or beach lover, this family-friendly event has something for everyone. 

Zumba Kids brings high-energy dance fun to lakeside suburbs with popular hits and global rhythms. This interactive show blends movement, culture, and education—featuring traditional dances and music from around the world. It’s a joyful, family-friendly celebration of unity through dance, perfect for exploring, learning, and moving together.

Roundabout’s Splashabout Showcase dives into circus magic with water themed acts featuring mermaids, pirates, penguins, and even fire-spitting squids! Inspired by local waterways, the family-friendly afternoon show delights all ages, while the evening show adds spectacular fire performances. 

Discover the magic of water at Avoca Lake with The Wonders of Water. 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.

 Nautical Country sets sail on the Hawkesbury River with live performances by Andrew Swift and Bryce Sainty. Enjoy scenic river views, smooth tunes, drinks, and cheeky banter aboard the Zarapito. Hosted by Ronnie Tee & Jaq, it’s a golden hour cruise for country fans and good-vibe seekers alike.

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!

Cinema Under the Stars at Gwandalan Lioness Park offers a magical night of family fun. Enjoy a free movie by the foreshore, plus food vans, jumping castles, and live entertainment before sundown. Bring your picnic blanket, gather your loved ones, and settle in for a cosy evening under the stars.

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.

Clambake in My Waters is a bold cabaret by Glitta Supernova, blending mythology, ecology, and magic. Featuring local and national performers as water spirits and sea creatures, this immersive waterfront show celebrates our lakes and estuaries through circus, music, and transformation, activating Gosford with cultural and environmental storytelling.

Sea Food Fest debuts at Canton Beach with fresh seafood, global flavours, market stalls, and lakeside fun. Enjoy cooking demos, kids’ activities, and a guided paddleboard tour of Tuggerah Lake. Bring your floatie or kayak for the colourful parade.

Acoustic Life of the River celebrates the embedded stories reflected along the waterways of the Lower Hawkesbury River. Step aboard for a river journey winded through sandstone cliffs and untold histories. Departing from Spencer.

Be amazed by headliner Ruby Fields, with Dear Sunday, Dizzy Days, Chloe Parche and Elaskia. Fun activities, licensed area, roving performers, and fantastic food, followed by fireworks display that will literally Light Up The Lake!

 Zumba Kids brings high-energy dance fun to lakeside suburbs with popular hits and global rhythms. This interactive show blends movement, culture, and education—featuring traditional dances and music from around the world. 

 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.

Trail run views to take your breath away! The Bouddi Coastal Run is a popular 14km and 21km trail running event held within Bouddi National Park, a stunning coastal reserve on the NSW Central Coast.

Gosford Water Polo Club hosts a Junior Tournament during the Lakes Festival! Over two exciting days, junior teams from across NSW compete in open-water matches on Brisbane Water. Enjoy thrilling games, vibrant energy, food stalls, a club BBQ, and a carnival atmosphere celebrating youth sport and community spirit.

Experience coastal fun at Avoca Beach with Swell Times! Enjoy beach sports, surf lessons, creative workshops, local stalls, tasty eats, and live music. Join a community cleanup and learn beach safety. Whether you're a wave rider or beach lover, this family-friendly event has something for everyone. Dive in!

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.

The Lighthouse Keepers revive sea shanties with rough harmonies, steady rhythms, and theatrical flair—blending music hall, folklore, and sailor songs into a salty, spirited tribute to coastal life.

The Entrance Markets return to Memorial Park with farm-fresh produce, handmade goods, delicious food, and live entertainment. Set along the picturesque foreshore, this vibrant showcase of local creativity and community spirit offers the perfect Sunday outing for families and friends.

Ink & Water is a free, family-friendly poetry event celebrating the Central Coast’s people and nature. Add your voice to a community poem, explore arts and crafts, and enjoy word-inspired fun. Type, paint, or relax outdoors—let your imagination flow in this creative, collaborative celebration.

Ink & Water is a free, family-friendly poetry event celebrating the Central Coast’s people and nature. Add your voice to a community poem, explore arts and crafts, and enjoy word-inspired fun. Type, paint, or relax outdoors—let your imagination flow in this creative, collaborative celebration.

Ink & Water is a free, family-friendly poetry event celebrating the Central Coast’s people and nature. Add your voice to a community poem, explore arts and crafts, and enjoy word-inspired fun. Type, paint, or relax outdoors—let your imagination flow in this creative, collaborative celebration.

Cinema Under the Stars at Gwandalan Lioness Park offers a magical night of family fun. Enjoy a free movie by the foreshore, plus food vans, jumping castles, and live entertainment before sundown. Bring your picnic blanket, gather your loved ones, and settle in for a cosy evening under the stars.

Join Central Coast Waterwatch as we embark on an exciting bus tour of Wyong River. Go dip netting for water bugs, collect water samples to test the health of our waterways, learn about the plants and animals that call Wyong River home, including the iconic platypus and learn about the many ways you can get involved to keep our waterways healthy. 

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.

 Zumba Kids brings high-energy dance fun to lakeside suburbs with popular hits and global rhythms. This interactive show blends movement, culture, and education—featuring traditional dances and music from around the world. 

 Soundscapes Youth Writing Workshop is a writing workshop for ages 12–18, inspired by the rich landscape and history of Norah Head. Explore the area, then craft stories using your senses and surroundings. Led by Merran Winchester, this creative session invites imagination. 

 Roundabout’s Splashabout Showcase dives into circus magic with water themed acts featuring mermaids, pirates, penguins, and even fire-spitting squids! Inspired by local waterways, the family-friendly afternoon show delights all ages, while the evening show adds spectacular fire performances. 

Nautical Country sets sail on the Hawkesbury River with live performances by Andrew Swift and Bryce Sainty. Enjoy scenic river views, smooth tunes, drinks, and cheeky banter aboard the Zarapito. Hosted by Ronnie Tee & Jaq, it’s a golden hour cruise for country fans and good-vibe seekers alike.

 and bargain art tables, all set against the scenic lakeside backdrop. Enjoy browsing, meeting local makers, and soaking up the relaxed community atmosphere

Ink & Water is a free, family-friendly poetry event celebrating the Central Coast’s people and nature. Add your voice to a community poem, explore arts and crafts, and enjoy word-inspired fun. Type, paint, or relax outdoors—let your imagination flow in this creative, collaborative celebration.

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.

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!

Waterways & Words invites you to explore the stories of the Lower Hawkesbury River. Enjoy floating storytellers, haiku happenings, shanty singers, Irish harp, and pop-up performances. Choose one of two unique voyages, or both, for a magical journey through music, history, and community along sandstone cliffs and river bends.

Sea Food Fest debuts at Canton Beach with fresh seafood, global flavours, market stalls, and lakeside fun. Enjoy cooking demos, kids’ activities, and a guided paddleboard tour of Tuggerah Lake. Bring your floatie or kayak for the colourful parade—an unforgettable day of food, music, and marine discovery for all!

 Join the Central Coast Watercolour Society for a free lakeside painting day! Explore watercolour, contribute to a mural, or enter the live Plein Air Art Competition. Whether you're an artist or observer, celebrate creativity and community in a stunning natural setting. 

 This relaxed, jam style event includes circus and flow props, guided workshops, and space to move, connect, and play. It’s open to all ages and experience levels, with a warm, community first energy that makes it easy to join in or simply enjoy the atmosphere.