Lake Macquarie’s largest free community event, the Living Smart Festival, returns to Speers Point Park this weekend, headlined by Australia’s favourite science communicator, Dr Karl Kruszelnicki.
Now in its 14th year, the festival is one of the country’s biggest celebrations of sustainability, attracting more than 10,000 people each year.
The event offers a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere while delivering practical ways to embrace everyday sustainable living.
Festivalgoers can look forward to a huge line-up of activities, workshops, demonstrations and market stalls. Local food trucks will be serving up fresh flavours, while artists and performers create a vibrant atmosphere throughout Speers Point Park.
Community groups and stallholders will be on hand to showcase eco-friendly initiatives and inspire visitors to make positive lifestyle changes.
The program features highlights such as the much-loved native plant giveaway, where residents can collect three free plants to take home.
An electrification panel will also explore the benefits of switching households and vehicles to electric power, outlining how the shift is good for communities, wallets, and the planet.
This year also sees the Multi Arts Pavilion mima activated as part of the event, hosting The Brigalow Belt Project led by artist Tricia Flanagan.
The work shines a spotlight on one of Australia’s most important ecological corridors, underscoring the critical relationship between art, environment, and food production.
The Living Smart Festival runs from 9am to 3pm this Saturday 20 September 2025 at Speers Point Park. Visitors are encouraged to arrive via the sustainable transport options on offer. For the full program and event details, head to the Lake Macquarie City Council website.
