November is shaping up to be a vibrant month on the Central Coast, with a variety of food festivals, art showcases, and cultural celebrations filling the calendar. From oysters and art to lakeside light shows, here’s your guide to what’s on across the Coast this month.
THE LAKES FESTIVAL: 10 years of coastal creativity
WHEN: Friday 7 – Sunday 16 November
WHERE: Coastwide
The Lakes Festival celebrates its tenth anniversary with ten days of music, art, food, and fun along the Central Coast’s scenic waterways. From kayak eco tours and seafood feasts to Indigenous fine dining and art workshops, more than 30 free events will transform the region into a hub of creativity and connection. The festival’s flagship event, Light Up the Lake, promises a spectacular evening of fireworks, family entertainment, and live performances — with Ruby Fields headlining the celebrations. Beyond the festivities, the program carries a strong sustainability message, inviting locals and visitors to reconnect with nature and the Coast’s unique culture.
BRISBANE WATER OYSTER FESTIVAL: 25 years of flavour
WHEN: Sunday 9 November
WHERE: Lions Park, Woy Woy
Now in its 25th year, the Brisbane Water Oyster Festival returns to Woy Woy with over 100 market stalls, gourmet food and drinks, and live music from crowd favourites Jellybean Jam and Swift Kick. The festival’s signature oyster-eating competition will once again test local appetites, while visitors can sample the Coast’s famous seafood fresh from the source. This free community event has become a local institution, celebrating the region’s coastal produce and relaxed lifestyle.
THE ARCHIBALD PRIZE 2025: Portraits with prestige
WHEN: 22 November 2025 – 11 January 2026
WHERE: Gosford Regional Gallery, East Gosford
In a major cultural coup, Gosford Regional Gallery will host the touring Archibald Prize 2025 exhibition as part of its 25th anniversary celebrations. Australia’s most prestigious portraiture prize showcases the work of acclaimed artists capturing the faces — and stories — of notable Australians. The exhibition’s arrival marks a significant moment for the Central Coast’s creative scene, offering locals the chance to experience the country’s best portraiture without a trip to Sydney.
CREATIVE SPACES: Art in the heart of Toukley
WHEN: Until Sunday, 30 November
WHERE: Toukley Village Green, Toukley
The Gallery Container project continues to bring art to everyday spaces, this month turning Toukley Village Green into a community studio. Local artist Susan Merchant leads the November program, running hand lettering, brush pen and watercolour workshops, plus a festive Christmas wreath-making session. With activities for all ages, it’s a chance to get creative, meet local artists, and be part of a growing grassroots art movement on the Coast.
WHAT’S ON CENTRAL COAST
The Central Coast’s November lineup offers something for every taste — from oysters and open-air art to fireworks and fine portraits. Whether you’re exploring local talent or soaking up the coastal culture, there’s no better time to head north and enjoy the creative energy sweeping the Coast.
