Seeking something spectacular to fill your weekend? Looking to plan a short escape with experiences the whole family will enjoy? Only 90-minutes from Sydney, Lake Macquarie is not only rich in natural beauty but home to a plethora of awesome events and festivals fit for a great day out.

Check out Lake Macquarie’s top events and festivals on, and around the Lake in 2023:

28-29 January Lake Mac Festival

Finish the summer holidays with a short stay in lovely Lake Macquarie and visit Lake Mac Festival from 28-29 January for a jam-packed weekend of family fun. There is something for everyone along the Lake's foreshore, think music, entertainment, activities, food stalls, face painting and fireworks. This is an exciting celebration you don’t want to miss!

4 - 11 March Women in Sport Festival

Coinciding with International Women’s Day, Lake Mac Women’s Sport Festival is being held on the 4-11 March, 2023, celebrating the best of Women’s Sport in the Hunter region and Australia. This inclusive festival is for newcomers and professional athletes alike, with an extensive program that caters to coaches, administrators and anyone who wants to challenge themselves and take on a new sport.

8 April- 21 May Archibald Prize 2023

Lovers of art eagerly await the annual touring exhibition known as The Archibald Prize. Arguably the most prestigious art prize in Australia, The Archibald Prize is awarded annually to the best portrait painted by an artist who resides in Australasia'. This year, the exhibition is heading to the Museum of Art and Culture right on the foreshore of Lake Mac from 8 April until 21 May. 

20 May Belmont Beers, Blues and BBQ Festival

In the most idyllic setting, along the lake's foreshore, Belmont Beers, Blues and BBQ is back for another night of craft beer, live music and succulent barbecues from brewers and food vendors in Hunter region and beyond. Be sure to call the babysitter in advance, as this is an 18 years+ event. 

23-24 June Float Your Boat

Plan your winter weekend escape to Lake Macquarie to enjoy the region’s famous Float Your Boat light show, where dozens of boats illuminate the calm waters and night skies of the Lake for one festive weekend from 23- 24 June. Join the lakeside celebrations, including live music, performances, food, and entertainment, or take part and enter your boat in the glowing flotilla.

16-17 September Living Smart Festival

Lake Macquarie’s popular Living Smart Festival will light up the lakeside between 16-17 September in one of the country’s biggest sustainable-themed events. Whether you’re seeking innovative ideas to live more sustainably at home, ethical meal ideas, pre-loved pieces to revamp your wardrobe, or a fun-filled day out with the family, the Living Smart Festival is the event for you.

14-15 October Fast & Loud Festival

The Fast & Loud Festival is Lake Macquarie’s biggest and most dynamic event, with action that spreads across the foreshore from Rathmines to Belmont. Experience all things fast and loud with an incredible line-up of action on and off the water, including exclusive live performances, exhilarating boat races, gravity-defying air shows and more. Adrenaline junkies will be in their element at this show-stopping weekend.

It's easy to see why Lake Macquarie should be at the top of your short-stay getaways. With action packed fun on and off the Lake - it’s the ultimate weekend destination for everyone.

See a full list of what’s on in Lake Macquarie here

To learn more about the Lake Macquarie and find where to stay when you visit, please visit: http://www.visitlakemac.com.au