October is bursting with festivals and events up and down the Central Coast, and we’ve got all the info you need to know to make the most of it.
From retro rides and rockabilly beats to rainbow celebrations, riverside regattas and a city-wide music takeover…
Here’s your guide to what’s happening and where.
ChromeFest
Friday 24 – Sunday 26 October
The Entrance
The Entrance will once again roar to life for the 17th annual ChromeFest – a three-day celebration of chrome, cars and classic tunes. More than 450 pre-1979 show cars, from iconic American classics to Hot Rods, will line the waterfront alongside retro markets, dance demonstrations and a vintage fashion parade.
Across five stages you can catch Rock ’n’ Roll and Rockabilly favourites, with highlights including Chrome After Dark – a free Memorial Park concert featuring The Flattrackers, The Cattrakkers and The Hellcat III. And of course, no ChromeFest would be complete without the PinUp Pageant and street cruise. Dress the part in your best 1950s attire and arrive early – this crowd favourite draws thousands.
Coastal Twist Festival
30 September – 5 October
Woy Woy, Ettalong Beach, Gosford and Umina Beach
The sparkliest festival on the Coast is back! Coastal Twist celebrates diversity, community and creativity with six days of cabaret, film screenings, dance parties, art exhibitions and workshops.
The centrepiece is Coastie Carnie Fair Day on Sunday 5 October, transforming the region into a colourful playground of music, theatre, culture, food and markets. Expect plenty of sparkle, love and inclusive fun wherever you go.
Putt Putt Regatta & Wooden Boat Festival
Sunday 19 October
Davistown
Davistown’s foreshore will be filled with nautical charm when the annual Putt Putt Regatta & Wooden Boat Festival returns. This family-friendly celebration of history and heritage invites you to marvel at beautifully restored putt putts and timber boats as they parade along Cockle Channel.
Highlights include the Grand Parade, the always-competitive Putt Putt Challenge, artisan markets, food stalls, a kids’ play area, live performances and even marine and motor vehicle displays – perfect for a full day out by the water.
Gossy Weekender
Friday 31 October – Sunday 2 November
Gosford
Celebrate the Central Coast’s live music scene as Gosford town centre transforms into a living soundscape. Over three days, more than 40 artists will perform across 20-plus venues, creating a program of mostly free and family-friendly events.
From country and Afrobeats to indie folk rock, folktronica and dub-rocker, the city will pulse with acoustic acts, singer-songwriters and DJs. Wander the streets, discover new artists and support local talent as original beats echo from every corner of the CBD.
WHAT’S ON CENTRAL COAST
Whether you’re into retro cars, rainbow parades, wooden boats or local bands, October on the Coast has something to tempt you out and about. Mark your calendar, gather your crew and make the most of these signature events.
