Lake Macquarie is set to come alive this January as Lake Mac Festival returns from 23–26 January, delivering four days of live music, sport, markets and community celebrations across the Australia Day long weekend.
Music remains a major drawcard in 2026, with the Red Hot Summer Tour bringing a lineup of Australian legends to the region, led by Paul Kelly.
The festival also celebrates local talent through live music events across multiple venues, including the popular Music in the Podium sessions, while Akmal adds a dose of stand-up comedy at Warners Bay Theatre.
On the water, the action ramps up with a series of high-profile sailing events. The iQFoil and Wingfoil Nationals Downunder will hit Wangi Amateur Sailing Club, showcasing elite competition and coastal adventure, while the historic 190th Australia Day Regatta brings yachts and trailer-sailers together in one of the region’s most enduring traditions.
Families are well catered for throughout the festival, with Harrington Circus setting up in Swansea, Pro Wrestling Newcastle bringing high-energy entertainment to Warners Bay Theatre, and classic Australia Day activities including a Lions Club BBQ and cricket.
Fireworks, an international food market, kids’ rides and boutique retail stalls at the Aussie Night Markets round out a program that blends celebration, spectacle and summer holiday fun.
Lake Mac Festival kicks off on 23 January and runs through to the 26th. For more information, visit lakemac.com.au.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Presented by Lake Macquarie City Council, the festival brings together a diverse mix of events designed to showcase the region’s waterfront lifestyle, creative culture and strong community spirit. From lakefront performances and headline concerts to family activities and food markets, the program is built to encourage locals and visitors alike to explore everything Lake Macquarie has to offer.
MUSIC IN THE PODIUM
Music in the Podium is an iconic Lake Macquarie event that has run continually for over 25 years. It’s the perfect setting to unwind on a Friday evening as the sun sets across the lake while you catch up with friends and family, listening to a fantastic mix of popular covers, rock, jazz and blues.
WHEN: Fridays from 6pm
WHERE: Warners Bay Foreshore
HARRINGTON CIRCUS SWANSEA
Enjoy an 80 Minute Action-Packed Circus Show featuring International Performers, Death-defying acts, Beautiful Aerials, Hilarious Clowns, Magic Illusions, and so much more!
WHEN: Friday, 23 January 2026
WHERE: Swansea Equestrian Grounds
IQFOIL & WINGFOIL NATIONALS DOWNUNDER
Australian Wing Foil Racing (AWFR) has been created to grow and support wing foil racing in Australia. Their goal is to bring riders together – from beginners finding their balance to competitors pushing the limits and build a strong, supportive community around this sport. In January 2026, AWFR will host its first National Wing Foil Racing Event, a showcase of skill, energy and friendly competition.
WHEN: Thursday, 22 January 2026
WHERE: Wangi Amateur Sailing Club
AKMAL
Akmal returns with a smash-hit tour after a spiritual journey to India to find himself. Unfortunately, when he got there, he couldn’t find himself anywhere, after all India is a big place.
WHEN: Friday, 23 January 2026
WHERE: Warners Bay Theatre
RED HOT SUMMER TOUR
This iconic outdoor music festival brings together a scorching all-Australian line-up, headlined by legendary singer/songwriter Paul Kelly. Joining him are beloved favourites Missy Higgins, The Cruel Sea, The Cat Empire, Kasey Chambers, and Jess Hitchcock, for an unforgettable day of live music by the lake.
WHEN: Saturday, 24 January 2026
WHERE: Speers Point Park
NEWCASTLE PRO WRESTLING
Live Pro Wrestling right here in Warners Bay! Come see some of the best talent Australia has to offer. Championship matches, tag wrestling and much more.
WHEN: Saturday, 24 January 2026
WHERE: Warners Bay Theatre
AUSSIE NIGHT MARKETS AND FIREWORKS
Enjoy Australia Day at the Aussie Night Markets held at Morisset Showground. Enjoy an international food market to tantalise your taste buds with all the flavours from around the world, including gourmet desserts galore! Browse the boutique retail section or join the fun at the kids rides and jumping castles.
WHEN: Monday, 26 January 2026
WHERE: Morisset Showgrounds
