What’s On Central Coast: Events This Weekend & This Month

The Lakes Festival 2026

Make a day of it by the water during The Lakes Festival, with more than 30 events across 12 locations. The ten-day program brings live entertainment, creative activities and family outings to lakeside and coastal towns around the Coast.

Light up the Lake on Saturday 7 November is one to look out for. Browse the program for something near you. Times, prices and bookings differ from event to event.

Brews & Braids at Little Miss

For dads who’d love to manage more than a hurried ponytail, this hands-on workshop is a good place to start. A professional hairdresser will guide you through styling and braiding techniques, with mannequin heads to practise on and no experience needed.

You’ll be learning alongside other dads, with time to practise and ask questions.

Gosford Art Prize 2026

See work by finalists from across Australia, then vote for your favourite in the Viewers’ Choice Award.

Gin-gerbread House Making Workshop at Distillery Botanica

Get a few friends together for a morning of gingerbread, icing and a gin at Distillery Botanica. You’ll build your house using a kit from Adri’s Gingerbread, then decorate it with sweets while the team helps as you go. Settle in and make something to bring home for Christmas.

Christmas Wreath Workshop at Bells at Killcare

Make a handmade Christmas wreath with Lee Cavendar at Bells at Killcare. Check the booking page for workshop details.

Kefi Kids Christmas Market

A Christmas market run by local kids! Young stallholders aged 8–13 will sell handmade crafts, treats, art, pre-loved toys and books. It’s a sweet way for children to choose Christmas gifts for friends and family.

There’ll also be family activities and Santa photos down on the marina, with a pet-friendly Coastal Christmas photo setup.

Free to visit, and you’re welcome to come just for a browse.

Meet the Creatures with Brandon-Troy Gifford

Meet some fascinating creatures at Umina Beach Book Nook as Brandon-Troy Gifford launches his book Bite To Survive. He’ll be bringing a juvenile saltwater crocodile, a woma python, a funnel-web spider and a blue-tongue lizard along.

StoryQuest: LEGO Minecraft Adventures

For children who love Minecraft, here’s a chance to build a story away from the screen. At Umina Beach Library, they’ll use LEGO to create their own Minecraft world and choose what happens next, with books to spark ideas.

Horror Night with Kaaron Warren and J.S. Breukelaar

Friday the 13th in a bookshop with horror authors sounds about right. Bring a friend who loves a spooky read and head to Umina Beach Book Nook for an evening with Kaaron Warren, J.S. Breukelaar and guest author Belinda Brady.

Costumes are encouraged. There’ll be drinks, nibbles and games, and you might find your next haunting read.

Salsa Christmas Party & Showcase

Start with a 45-minute beginner salsa class, then stay for the Christmas party, with live music from The Latin Project, social dancing and a student showcase at 9pm. Festive dress is welcome.

Check Eventbrite for the latest ticket options before you book.

Candlelight: The Best of Hans Zimmer

Firebird Quartet performs Hans Zimmer’s film scores by candlelight at Adamstown Uniting Church. Expect music from Inception, The Lion King, Gladiator and more. It’s a tribute concert and isn’t endorsed by Hans Zimmer himself.

Brunch with Alpacas at Iris Lodge

Sunday brunch comes with some curious company at Iris Lodge Alpacas. Meet and feed the alpacas, then enjoy brunch overlooking the paddocks, with time to watch the animals and take a few photos.

Brunch includes fruit, yoghurt and muesli, tea breads, cakes and bacon and egg sandwiches, with tea, coffee and juice. Gluten-free and vegan options are available.

Morning Chores Tours at Grace Springs Farm

There’s plenty for children to get involved in at Grace Springs Farm, from feeding hay to the cows and collecting eggs to cuddling a chook. As you join the farmers on their morning rounds, you’ll also see the pigs being fed and hear about how the farm works. Groups are kept small, so there’s time for questions and for getting to know the animals.

Farm & Arabian Horse Tour at Yarramalong Valley Horse Farmstay

The Arabian horses are the stars of this family-run farm in Wyong Creek, but there are plenty of other animals to meet, including miniature horses, goats and rabbits. The guided tour takes you around the property, with time to get to know the animals and enjoy the countryside. Allow at least two hours for your visit.