November in Lake Macquarie offers a rich mix of culture, laughter, and adventure. From world-class comedy and music to the thrill of landing a prize-winning catch. Whether you’re casting a line, catching a show, or soaking up local history, there’s something for everyone this month.
Here’s your ultimate guide to what’s on across the city this November.
Let’s Fish Lake Mac
WHEN: Saturday 22 – Sunday 23 November 2025
WHERE: Across Lake Macquarie
Reel in the excitement at Let’s Fish Lake Mac 2025, Australia’s largest coastal saltwater fishing competition. With a staggering $147,000 in cash and prizes up for grabs — including four $25,000 tagged fish and 4 prize tagged fish, including a Quintrex 370 Explorer boat worth $6,900 — it’s your chance to catch big and win bigger! Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just in it for the thrill, register to join the fun and you’ll even go in the draw to win, fish or no fish!
History Illuminated Festival
WHEN: Saturday 1 – Sunday 9 November 2025
WHERE: Various locations across Lake Macquarie
Step back in time and explore Lake Macquarie’s vibrant history at the History Illuminated Festival. The nine-day celebration features author talks, walking tours, exhibitions, workshops, music, and performances across the city. Festival highlights include culinary icon Kylie Kwong, design storyteller Tim Ross, historian Ed Tonks, journalist Scott Bevan, a vintage fashion parade, community open days, and two spectacular concerts. Discover the stories that shaped our city and celebrate the people keeping them alive.
ARJ BARKER: The Mind Field
WHEN: Friday 7 November 2025 | 8pm
WHERE: Warners Bay Theatre, baramayiba
Prepare for laughs and a dose of existential thinking with international comedy sensation Arj Barker. In his new show The Mind Field, Arj explores life’s biggest questions — from the mysteries of existence to the small (and sometimes painful) realities of daily life. Expect his trademark wit, sharp observations, and plenty of laughs in this night of stand-up you won’t forget.
AUSTRALIAN HAYDN ENSEMBLE: Beethoven’s Eighth – Performance & Talk
WHEN: Saturday 8 November 2025 | 1:30pm
WHERE: Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima
Experience the power and passion of Beethoven in this special performance and talk by the Australian Haydn Ensemble. Beethoven’s Eighth explores the composer’s emotional intensity through live performance and fascinating insights into his “Immortal Beloved” letters. This intimate event offers audiences a rare chance to hear exquisite classical music paired with engaging storytelling about one of history’s greatest composers.
Twilight Fridays
WHEN: Every Friday from 17 October 2025 to 24 April 2026 | 5pm–8pm
WHERE: Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima
Kick off your weekend at Twilight Fridays, a vibrant weekly series that brings art, music, and community together at MAP mima. Featuring rotating themes like Beats and Eats, Cinema in the Cube, and Art After Hours, the program offers something new each week — from food trucks and live DJs to roller skating and creative workshops. Bring your friends, family, or just your good vibes and make Friday nights in Lake Mac unforgettable.
MAC yapang Art Prize Exhibition
WHEN: On display until 7 December 2025
WHERE: Museum of Art and Culture, yapang, Booragul
Explore the MAC yapang Art Prize Exhibition, showcasing 162 finalist artworks selected from more than 800 national entries. The exhibition offers a captivating snapshot of contemporary Australian art, featuring painting, sculpture, digital works, and installations from artists across the country.
MEG WASHINGTON: Live in Concert
WHEN: Saturday 29 November 2025 | 7:30pm
WHERE: Warners Bay Theatre, baramayiba
ARIA-winning artist Meg Washington brings her stunning voice and genre-defying sound to Lake Macquarie. In this intimate solo performance, Meg moves effortlessly between jazz, pop, folk, and musical theatre, performing songs from her acclaimed five-album catalogue. Poetic, powerful, and profoundly personal, this is a rare opportunity to experience one of Australia’s most captivating performers up close.
COMING UP IN LAKE MAC
BEN LEE: On Tour Always
WHEN: Saturday 10 January 2026 | 6:30pm
WHERE: Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima
Don’t miss beloved singer-songwriter Ben Lee live in Lake Macquarie! Fresh off his hugely popular Awake Is The New Sleep 20th Anniversary Tour, Ben brings his infectious energy and iconic hits to the MAP mima stage for an intimate evening under the stars. This exclusive regional show promises heart, humour, and a whole lot of sing-alongs — rain or shine.
