There's always a fantastic array of events happening in Newcastle, from sporting festivals and live music, to art exhibitions, degustation dinners, and so much more. Check out our guide to what's on in Newcastle and start adding to your calendar.

APRIL

Newcastle Food Month | Apr
Newcastle Food Month is a celebration of all things food in Newcastle, with events happening across the city throughout April. Get ready to dive into a delicious lineup of eats.

LIMBO – The Return: Spiegeltent Newcastle | Until 5 May
Set to whisk audiences into a sinister netherworld of gut-churning contortion, breathtaking acrobatics, and jaw-dropping stunts, LIMBO – The Return combines a fresh and intoxicating mix of cabaret, circus, acrobatics, and Sxip's Shirey (NY) ecstatic heart-pounding music.
Where: Spiegeltent Newcastle, Civic Park, Newcastle

Newsies Jr. | 16 Apr - 11 May
Prepare to seize the day as Young People's Theatre proudly presents the Newcastle debut of Disney's Newsies Jr! Inspired by the rousing true story of newsboys strike in turn-of-the-century New York City, this Broadway musical has thrilled young people for generations.
Where: Young People's Theatre, 26 Lindsay St, Hamilton

Re:Classical | 18 Apr
Max Richter’s chart-topping global sensation, Four Seasons Recomposed, leads this performance of groundbreaking classical music from Australia’s most exciting and forward-thinking chamber music group.
Where: Newcastle City Hall, 290 King St, Newcastle

Jana Meats Hungerford Hill | 18 Apr
QT Newcastle's Jana Restaurant is partnering with Hungerford Hill Wines for an exquisite 3-course dining experience this Newcastle Food Month. Think plenty of premium meat, Argentinian-inspired flavours, and quality wines.
Where: Jana Restaurant at QT Newcastle, 185 Hunter St, Newcastle

Battle of the Vines | 18 Apr
Join The Junction Hotel for an exclusive dinner featuring a curated selection of wines from the renowned Hunter Valley and South Australia, putting some of the finest varietals against each other. You'll even have the chance to cast your votes for your favourite wines!
Where: The Junction Hotel, 204 Corlette St, The Junction

Good Tukka | 18 Apr
The Lucky Hotel and Oz Tukka present Good Tukka. Begin your night with a glass of local wine on arrival, before delving into a 4-course culinary experience inspired by native Australian ingredients, heroing bush food from Oz Tukka and prepared by The Lucky Hotel's Head Chef Nathan Smith.
Where: The Lucky Hotel, 237 Hunter St, Newcastle

Burgundy Wine Dinner | 18 Apr
Indulge your senses in an evening of culinary delight at Henry’s Parlour at The Grand Hotel. Expect a spectacular 4-course Burgundy Wine Dinner, where each course is expertly paired with exceptional Burgundy wines.
Where: The Grand Hotel, 32 Church St, Newcastle

Deliciosa Española: Food and Music at the Pub | 18 Apr
Enjoy dramatic Spanish music by the internationally acclaimed Duo Evocaciones and a delicious Spanish-themed meal at FogHorn Brewery as part of Newcastle Food Month.
Where: FogHorn Brewery, 218 King St, Newcastle

Alice: Interactive Performance Workshop | 18 Apr
Join the team from Whale Chorus for an interactive development workshop to help create a new piece of theatre for kids. Whale Chorus are seeking experts at play and mischief to help us create a new theatre show based on the story of Alice in Wonderland. 
Where: Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima, 96 Creek Reserve Rd, Speers Point

The Jungle Book | 18 - 27 Apr
This April school holidays, Hunter Drama is bringing Monica Flory's adaptation of The Jungle Book to The Playhouse. Featuring 20 Hunter Drama students, this multi-sensory production is one not to be missed.
Where: The Playhouse, Civic Theatre, 375 Hunter St, Newcastle

Hot Potato Band | 19 Apr
Join Hot Potato Band with special guests for a fabulous night of music at Rathmines Theatre! Hot Potato Band’s larger-than-life brass collective is a breath of fresh air, setting a new bar for energetic and interactive musical performances. 
Where: Rathmines Theatre, nawayiba, Stilling St & Dorrington Rd, Rathmines

Dawn French | 19 Apr
Don't miss iconic British comedian Dawn French as she heads to Newcastle on her Dawn French is a Huge Twat tour.
Where: Civic Theatre, 375 Hunter St, Newcastle

In The Heart Of Being | Until 20 Apr
In The Heart Of Being by Heidi Lai explores how minorities in the world navigate their daily existence and their interconnections. Within the tapestry of their unique community, often challenging for outsiders to grasp, lies a profound beauty and complexity that invites us to recognise the rich diversity within the fabric of everyday life.
Where: Wester Gallery, 16 Wood St, Newcastle West

Exquisite Cadaver | Until 20 Apr
Caroline Zilinsky has challenged societal indoctrination and stupidity with an obsessive observation of humanity and the media – the paintings in the exhibition Exquisite Cadaver lead us through a uniquely beautiful skewed realism.
Where: The University Gallery, GS Building, University of Newcastle, University Dr, Callaghan

Sun Loft Studio Flash Day | 20 Apr
Sun Loft Studio is hosting a flash day, offering heaps of flash tattoo designs by its three resident artists: Art by Mia, Lauren Pokes, and By Brinley Pokes. First come first serve, so make sure you get in early to get your name on the waitlist.
Where: Muster Point, 53 Maitland Rd, Mayfield East

Crushed: A Hamilton Harvest Party | 20 Apr
Crushed is back for its second year, hosted by Vera Wine, Good Folk Brewing Co, and Harrison's Food and Wine. Taste wines from 20 of Vera Wine's favourite local producers, sample local beer, and enjoy food by Harrison's.
Where: Vera Wine Forum, 121 Tudor St, Hamilton

Rosé Wine Garden | 20 Apr
Rosé all day with friends overlooking the beautiful Newcastle Harbour. Enjoy five rosés from the Hunter Valley paired with a Mediterranean-style tapas menu against the backdrop of the beautiful Customs House. Who wouldn't rosé all day?
Where: Customs House Hotel, 1 Bond St, Newcastle

Pork Ewe Deli 'Meats' Cleaver Salumi | 20 Apr
Join Sam Glover, purveyor of fine food and owner of Pork Ewe Deli, and Dave Cann, charcuterie king and founder of Cleaver Salumi Cabinets, in this hands-on intimate salami making masterclass. 
Where: Port Ewe Deli, 144 Maitland Rd, Mayfield

Pop, Bubble & Fizz Masterclass | 20 Apr
In this Pop, Bubble & Fizz Masterclass, hosted by Wine Selectors as part of Newcastle Food Month, you’ll taste your way around the world with 12 Champagne and sparkling wines, with delicious artisan cheeses to pair in between.
Where: Newcastle Museum McIntyre Theatrette, 6 Workshop Way, Newcastle

Oaxaca Fiesta: Mexican Street Food & Cocktails | 20 Apr
This evening event invites lovers of Mexican food and drinks to indulge in dishes guaranteed to delight the taste buds! Oaxaca Fiesta celebrates the distinct style of Mexican cuisine through a variety of canapés and cocktails.
Where: The Nags Head Hotel, 272 Brunker Rd, Adamstown

Youth Week 2024 | Until 21 Apr
Ice skating, hip hop and graffiti workshops, and an evening museum 'takeover' are among the activities on offer for the city's teens and young adults during Youth Week 2024.
Where: Various venues

Vecina Sunday Sessions | 21 & 28 Apr
Kick back with a Sunday Session at Vecina this Newcastle Food Month, when the bar transforms into a pop-up cellar door featuring wines from Hunter Valley wineries and perfectly-paired snacks.
Where: Vecina, 9 Albert St, Wickham

Homegrown Markets | 21 Apr
Homegrown Markets are on from 10am-2pm, with stacks of stalls offering locally-made goods, heaps of street food, and live tunes.
Where: Speers Point Park, Speers Point

Meat Your Maker: A Wine and Beef Showcase | 21 Apr
Experience a 5-course tasting menu featuring the best local beef, paired with Margan Wines and Akasha Barrel-aged beers, followed by live music in the Eddies Beer Garden after the meal.
Where: The Edwards, 148 Parry St, Newcastle West

Newcastle Marathon | 21 Apr
The Newcastle Marathon is now a standalone event as part of NewRun, and also includes a flat half marathon on the same course.

The Imperfects | 21 Apr
After their hugely successful debut live show tour of Australia in 2023, The Imperfects are back on the road for their biggest show yet. Join co-hosts Hugh Van Cuylenburg, Ryan Shelton, and Josh Van Cuylenburg as they discover how perfectly imperfect we all are.
Where: Civic Theatre, 375 Hunter St, Newcastle

Colour My World Singalong | 21 Apr
Colour My World is the theme for the next Singalong at Adamstown Uniting Church this April. Happening at 2pm, the songs are led by experienced singers with all the words on the big screen and Maestro Philip Sketchley keeps everyone in tune. Tickets are $15, with all proceeds going to charity.
Where: Adamstown Uniting Church, 228 Brunker Rd, Adamstown

Blondie | 22 Apr
 Blondie will be supported by Wolfmother and Cosmic Psychos.

Possum Magic | 22 - 24 Apr
Mem Fox and Julie Vivas’ beloved picture book Possum Magic has enchanted children for over 40 years. Seen by over 150,000 young people across Australia, Monkey Baa’s delightful adaptation returns to the stage.
Where: Civic Theatre, 375 Hunter St, Newcastle

Alice Cooper & Blondie | 23 Apr
Catch rock icons Blondie and Alice Cooper when they play a Pandemonium festival sideshow at the Newcastle Entertainment Centre this April.
Where: Newcastle Entertainment Centre, Brown Rd, Broadmeadow

A Night with Bistro Molines at Flotilla | 24 Apr
Join Bistro Molines Head Chef Tom Waite and Flotilla's very own Chef Jake Deluca for a night of French bistro classics. Having both spent many years under the wings of Hunter Valley legend Robert Molines, you know to expect lots of laughs, great wine and delicious food.
Where: Flotilla, 9 Albert St, Wickham

PAIRED: Jimmy Joans Comes to Town | 24 Apr
Set in the iconic Customs House Hotel, Jimmy Joans is bringing some of the Hunter Valley Wine Country to the coast! Join Jimmy Joans for an exclusive food and wine experience, PAIRED, with brothers and best mates Head Chef and Co-owner Thomas Boyd and Bimbadgen Assistant Winemaker, Samuel Boyd.
Where: Customs House Hotel, 1 Bond St, Newcastle

Nautica Dining x Peter Drayton Wines | 24 Apr
Join Nautica Dining on the water for the return of their sell-out event – a six-course seafood tasting menu by Executive Chef Luke Carpenter paired with drops by Peter Drayton Wines.
Where: Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club, 95 Hannell St, Wickham

Anzac Day at The Lucky | 25 Apr
Head 'em up at The Lucky Hotel this Anzac Day. Make your way to the pub from 6.30am after the dawn service for bacon and egg rolls, coffee, and home-made Anzac biscuits. Two-up kicks off from 11am, so get in early to secure your spot.
Where: The Lucky Hotel, 237 Hunter St, Newcastle

Anzac Day at The Beaches | 25 Apr
The Beaches beckons as the ultimate spot to meet up with mates this Anzac Day. There's a two-up ring in the carpark, a backyard BBQ, live local tunes and happy hour from 4-6pm.
Where: The Beach Hotel, 99 Frederick St, Merewether

Mediterranean Seafood Dinner | 26 Apr
Experience a Seafood Mediterranean Dinner at The Signal Box, hosted by Executive Chef Dan James and his skilled team. Prepare to indulge in a culinary journey that celebrates the flavours of the Mediterranean.
Where: The Signal Box, 155 Wharf Rd, Newcastle

Rhys Nicholson | 26 Apr
Award-winning comedian Rhys Nicholson is back with their brand-new, hour-long special Huge Big Party Congratulations. Catch them at at the Civic Theatre this April.
Where: Civic Theatre, 375 Hunter St, Newcastle

International Night at The Shorty | 27 Apr
Embark on a culinary journey at International Night at The Shorty. Join the pub for an unforgettable evening where the world converges on your plate, featuring the flavours of Nepal, Japan, South Africa and South America and the aromatic spices that define these diverse cuisines.
Where: The Shortland Hotel, 269 Sandgate Rd, Shortland

DJ Topic at Cruiser Nightclub | 27 Apr
Get ready to party with DJ Topic at Cruiser Nightclub – an open-air, three-level yacht on Newcastle Harbour. Born in Germany and known for his dynamic blend of melancholic dance-pop and house music, DJ Topic has captured hearts worldwide. 

Newcastle Wedding Fair | 28 Apr
Newcastle Wedding Fair is all about connecting you with incredible local vendors who will help you create your dream wedding day. Expect award-winning vendors, up-and-coming vendors, workshops and interactive displays, exclusive offers and discounts, and giveaways.
Where: Newcastle City Hall, 290 King St, Newcastle

Orchestral Pops with Lake Macquarie Philharmonic | 28 Apr
The Lake Macquarie Philharmonic is back at MAP mima to perform their Orchestral Pops concert. A delightful concert of much loved works by Johann Strauss, Tchaikovsky, Erin Coates, Offenbach, Sibelius, and more.
Where: Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima, 96 Creek Reserve Rd, Speers Point

Ravella x Alfie's Perfect Match | 28 Apr
Celebrate the arrival of Alfie's at Ravella (formerly 48 Watt St) with a 6-course shared Italian feast, matching wines from some of the Hunter's finest winemakers, live music, and even a competition to crown a wine as the inaugural Ravella x Alfie’s Perfect Match.
Where: Ravella, 48 Watt St, Newcastle

The Prince x Scarborough Degustation | 28 Apr
Embark on a delightful 5-course lunch experience crafted by chefs Timothy Montgomery and Joshua Lips, complemented by a selection of Scarborough premium wines.
Where: The Prince of Merewether, 1 Morgan St, Merewether

Crimes of the Cross – Book Launch and In-Conversation | 28 Apr
Join The Lock-Up for the offical book launch of Crimes of the Cross, led by chair speaker Tanya Wilks OAM in conversation with author, Anne Manne and survivor, Steve Smith.
Where: The Lock-Up, 90 Hunter St, Newcastle

Long Lunch with Archie Rose | 28 Apr
Indulge in an afternoon of culinary delights and premium spirit tastings as Bartholomew's partners with Archie Rose Distilling Co. to bring you a unique long lunch experience.
Where: Bartholomew's, 145 King St, Newcastle

Stories of Light | Until 4 May
Stories of Light by Wh!p Collective is an anthology of lens-based stories devised around a sense of place, the personal, the familial and the inspirational. These tales from visual artists are told through the medium of photography, akin to the written words of authors.
Where: Watt Space Gallery, Cnr Auckland St & Hunter St

It isn't Always, Always | Until 5 May
Developed through the Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima artist in residency program, Lina Buck presents It isn’t Always, Always. An exhibition that investigates the microcosm of the physical, psychological, and experiential relationship we share with the landscape around us.
Where: Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima, 96 Creek Reserve Rd, Speers Point

Amalfi Long Lunch | Fridays & Saturdays
This summer, you’ll be transported to the sun-drenched shores of Italy with the launch of Romberg’s Amalfi Long Lunch – a four-course antipasti feast paired with refreshing spritz cocktails.
Where: Level 9, 282 King St, Newcastle

MAY

Thommo's Table Shiraz Release | 1 May
Be among the first to taste Thomas Wines' soon-to-be-released suite of premium 2022 shiraz and even a brand new wine in the Thomas Wines range. Held at Humbug, chef Michael Portley has created a special 5-course menu to pair with the wines.
Where: Humbug, 87-89 Hunter St, Newcastle

The Wine Series at Meet – Paxton Wines | 1 May
Join Ben Paxton of Paxton Wines for an intimate evening featuring a 4-course, exclusively-curated menu, accompanied by exquisite Paxton wine pairings. This is a night you don't want to miss!
Where: Meet, 9 Darby St, Newcastle

Single O x Tim Ward Tasting | 2 May
You’re no doubt familiar with wine tasting – well, cupping is coffee’s answer to this unique experience. Autumn Rooms invites you to sample some of Single O's tastiest offerings and learn about their processing, before delving into the world of Tim Ward Wines.
Where: Autumn Rooms, 127 Darby St, Cooks Hill

Lake Mac Autumn Fair | 4 May
Head to Speers Point Park for the Lake Mac Autumn Fair from 9am-4pm, organised by the Combined Rotary Clubs of Lake Macquarie. Enjoy a day of FREE family-friendly activities, delicious food, and non-stop entertainment. Don't miss this opportunity to support Rotary community projects!
Where: Speers Point Park, Speers Point

Fashion Frenzy | 4 May
Uncover a treasure trove of pre-loved (and new) fashion at Fashion Frenzy, from just $5 per item. Experience sustainable shopping at its finest, knowing that every purchase directly empowers vulnerable women on their journey towards financial independence.
Where: 82-84 Belford St, Broadmeadow

SagoSun Flea Market | 5 May
Shop vintage, pre-loved unisex clothing at SagoSun's next flea market at Lowlands Bowling Club. Sip coffee from Arlo's Coffee Van while you browse over 20 stalls and bag a few goodies for yourself.
Where: Lowlands Bowling Club, 98A Dawson St, Cooks Hill

LIMBO – The Return: Spiegeltent Newcastle | Until 5 May
Set to whisk audiences into a sinister netherworld of gut-churning contortion, breathtaking acrobatics, and jaw-dropping stunts, LIMBO – The Return combines a fresh and intoxicating mix of cabaret, circus, acrobatics, and Sxip's Shirey (NY) ecstatic heart-pounding music.
Where: Spiegeltent Newcastle, Civic Park, Newcastle

Be More Chill | 8 - 18 May
Jeremy Heere is just an average teenager, until he finds out about “The Squip” – a tiny supercomputer that promises to bring him everything he desires most. But is being the most popular guy in school worth the risk? Catch this play by Chookas Entertainment this May.
Where: The Playhouse, Civic Theatre, 375 Hunter St, Newcastle

CraftAlive Newcastle | 9 - 11 May
CraftAlive is Australia’s longest-running craft event series. With both local and interstate craft talent, the show is packed full of the latest craft supplies, kits and equipment.
Where: Newcastle Racecourse, Darling St, Broadmeadow

Where Delusion Meets the Sun | 10 May - 7 Jul
Artist James Drinkwater is curating The Lock-Up’s upcoming major exhibition, Where Delusion Meets the Sun, driven by his deep admiration for the works of Julian Schnabel, Lottie Consalvo, & Wayne Magrin. The exhibition delves into their art through themes of deviancy, defiance, escapism, fantasy, and their connection to spaces and processes of incarceration and demarcation.
Where: The Lock-Up, 90 Hunter St, Newcastle

Urban Wine Walk | 11 May
The streets and laneways of Newcastle will come alive this autumn, as a line-up of incredible venues each transform into an urban cellar door and host a winemaker for you to visit on a self-guided wine trail – all as part of Urban Wine Walk.

Club Disco | 11 May
The Disco is taking it back to where it all began – for one night, Club Disco, their new sister brand, is making its grand debut at The Newcastle Hotel. They're bringing the essence, the nostalgia, and the outright fabulousness of the legendary The G, right back into the heart of Newcastle.
Where: The Newcastle Hotel, 139 Maitland Rd, Islington

Discover Gilding | 11 May
Join Martha Moderitz in this introduction to the ancient decorative art of gold leaf gilding. Learn the skills and techniques to instantly elevate your creative practice with a process used by artisans for centuries.
Where: Hudson Street Hum, 7 Hudson St, Hamilton

Mayfield Day | 11 May
Mayfield Day is back in town this May! Mayfield BIA are excited to present this FREE family fun day for the third year in a row! Head down for a lineup of market stalls, local business pop-ups, kids entertainment and workshops, food trucks, live music and more. Where: Webb Park, Mayfield

The Mousetrap | 11 - 25 May
The Mousetrap is the world's longest running play, and now you can experience it for yourself at the Civic Theatre. A genre-defining murder mystery from the best-selling novelist of all time, The Mousetrap will have you on the edge of your seat.
Where: Civic Theatre, 375 Hunter St, Newcastle

Mother's Day with Half Nelson | 12 May
Come and enjoy crowd favourites Half Nelson and experience their take on well-known jazz tunes from the likes of Billie, Ella, Louie and Fats. Tickets are just $10, and all mums get a free glass of bubbles.
Where: Bartholomew's, 145 King St, Newcastle

Sprout Dining Mother's Day Lunch | 12 May
Celebrate Mother’s Day with lunch at Sprout Dining! Treat your mum to an unforgettable culinary experience, where each dish is a tribute to the love and warmth she brings. With 2 and 3-course menu options and live music, it's set to be a memorable lunch.
Where: Sprout Dining, 189 Hunter St, Newcastle

Kaz & Jude's Menopausal Night Out | 18 May
Kaz Cooke and Judith Lucy are hitting the road with their Menopausal Night Out tour, full of stand-up, laughs, and useful, real chat about perimenopause and what comes next.
Where: City Hall, 290 King St, Newcastle

Plantlife | 18 - 26 May
Twelve months in the making, Plantlife features all new work from David Griffen's darkroom. A combination of large black and white works and colourful alternative process prints, this exhibition showcases plant life from a road trip through Queensland, as well as a selection of images from the Hunter Valley Botanic Gardens.
Where: 133 Beaumont St, Hamilton

Love and Information | 22 - 25 May
Love and Information by Caryl Churchill is a captivating and thought-provoking play that delves into the complexities of human connection in the digital age. In a series of loosely connected scenes, it explores the ways in which love and information intersect and shape our lives.
Where: The Playhouse, Civic Theatre, 375 Hunter St, Newcastle

San Cisco | 23 May
Fremantle trio San Cisco have just announced a regional east coast tour taking place in May of this year, fresh off the back of releasing their ARIA charting fourth studio album, Under The Light – and they're heading to Newcastle this May.
Where: King Street Bandroom, 15 Steel St, Newcastle West

Mexican Weekender | 24 - 26 May
Experience three massive nights of Mexican-style churrasco, cocktail specials, and more at Meet this May for its Mexican Weekender.
Where: Meet, 6 Darby St, Newcastle

Zenith | 26 May
From classic soul, to disco-pop, jazz & funk-fusion, Zenith mix and match songs from artists such as Dua Lipa, Adele, Ed Sheeran, MJ, Shakira, The Beatles, and INXS. This 7-piece band will brighten your afternoon with some serious musical talent.
Where: Bartholomew's, 145 King St, Newcastle

Sculptures @ Scratchley | Dates TBA
The hugely popular Sculptures @ Scratchley is returning in 2024, bringing sculptures by local and international artists to the grounds of Fort Scratchley.
Where: Fort Scratchley, 1/3 Nobbys Rd, Newcastle East

JUNE

Lake Macquarie Dobell Festival | 1 - 30 Jun
Lake Macquarie Dobell Festival is inspired by the life and work of esteemed artist Sir William Dobell, who lived in Lake Macquarie. Expect workshops, presentations and exhibitions addressing various aspects of Dobell's life and work.

BIG Live presents: Romeo & Juliet | 1 Jun
Join Civic Theatre for an enchanting evening filled with passion, tragedy and world-class ballet. Following its sold-out 2023 season, BIG Live is making a triumphant return to Australia, bringing to life Shakespeare’s most magnificent love story, Romeo & Juliet.
Where: Civic Theatre, 375 Hunter St, Newcastle

Ukulele Death Squad | 1 Jun
The Ukulele Death Squad are coming to Newcastle! Back in Newcastle after a hiatus, the Ukulele Death Squad returns to unveil their latest EP, 'Baby Don't F*** With Me'. Renowned for their explosive live performances, they've garnered international acclaim.
Where: Croatian Wickham Sports Club, 20 Albert St, Wickham

JET | 8 June
JET have announced an extended run of dates across Australia celebrating the 20-year anniversary of their seminal debut album, Get Born.
Where: Bar on the Hill

Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow | 7 & 8 Jun
Australia's biggest and best comedy spectacular is setting off on its 26th annual road trip around the country! Showcasing the finest talents from the 2024 Melbourne International Comedy Festival, it's delivering a dose of laughter right to your doorstep.
Where: Civic Theatre, 375 Hunter St, Newcastle

Flickerfest | 15 Jun
Catch some of the best of short film festival Flickerfest when it makes its stop in Newcastle this year. You'll be able to see the best of the Australian shorts, and a selection of comedy highlights from the festival's 2024 programme.
Where: Civic Theatre Playhouse, 375 Hunter St, Newcastle

Missy Higgins | 15 & 16 Jun
Missy Higgins is celebrating the 20th anniversary of her debut album The Sound of White with a national tour – The Second Act. The Newcastle dates are the final dates of this special two-act show.
Where: Civic Theatre, 375 Hunter St, Newcastle

Gaslight | 19 - 23 Jun
Set to be one of the most talked about performances of 2024, Gaslight is a modern adaptation of the 1940’s suspenseful thriller by Patrick Hamilton and starring Geraldine Hakewill, Toby Schmitz and Kate Fitzpatrick. 
Where: Civic Theatre, 375 Hunter St, Newcastle

Float Your Boat | 21 Jun
Watch colourful, brightly-lit boats glide across the water at Lake Macquarie for Float Your Boat. Keep warm on the shore watching fire-twirling, LED light artists, and musicians.

Urzila Carlson | 28 Jun
Urzila Carlson's all-new show Just Jokes is touring nationally in 2024. Don't miss the chance to catch this comedy queen when she hits the stage in Newcastle.
Where: Civic Theatre, 375 Hunter St, Newcastle

Newcastle Comedy Festival | 28 Jun - 21 Jul
The month-long Newcastle Comedy Festival returns in 2024 with a lineup of the funniest international stars, homegrown legends, and the next big things in comedy, giving locals the opportunity to laugh long and hard all month long.

JULY

Newcastle Comedy Festival | 28 Jun - 21 Jul
The month-long Newcastle Comedy Festival returns in 2024 with a lineup of the funniest international stars, homegrown legends, and the next big things in comedy, giving locals the opportunity to laugh long and hard all month long.

The Australian Ballet on Tour | 13 Jul
The Australian Ballet is delighted to be bringing a program of classical favourites and contemporary pieces to audiences in Newcastle. Be transported by the pure artistry of The Australian Ballet’s dancers as they showcase some of the most moving, enthralling and exciting moments in their repertoire. 
Where: Civic Theatre, 375 Hunter St, Newcastle

COLLECT at The Lock-Up | Dates TBA
Featuring nearly 100 artists from Newcastle and the Hunter, COLLECT is one of The Lock-Up’s most anticipated exhibitions of the year. Showcasing the works of a diverse roster of local artists, COLLECT also raises funds for not-for-profit, independent art space The Lock-Up.
Where: The Lock-Up, 90 Hunter St, Newcastle

SCHOOL OF ROCK | 18 - 20 Jul
Hunter Drama is bringing smash-hit movie, turned smash-hit musical, SCHOOL OF ROCK, to Civic Theatre this July. The stage musical on Broadway and in the West End is produced by Andrew Lloyd Webber, who has also composed 14 new songs for the show, which additionally features all of the original songs from the movie. Early bird tickets are on sale now.
Where: Civic Theatre, Newcastle

AUGUST

Tom Gleeson | 9 Aug
Hard Quiz Overlord, Master of Tasks and Gold Logie Winner Tom Gleeson has been on the road for the past two years with Hard Quiz Live. Now he’s giving audiences an opportunity to see a master stand-up at work with his brand-new live show, Gear.
Where: Civic Theatre, 375 Hunter St

Wallsend 150 Years Celebration | 17 Aug
Celebrate the 150th anniversary of Wallsend's municipality in 2024. The event will be planned in partnership with the Wallsend community and include family-friendly activations throughout the town centre, cultural performances, and more.

La Bohème | 24 Aug
Witness Puccini's classic opera La Bohème, performed by Opera Australia at the Civic Theatre. Director Dean Bryant brings his trademark wit and vivacity to this new staging, which captures that giddy moment where you and your friends feel you'll live forever.
Where: Civic Theatre, 375 Hunter St, Newcastle

Whisky & Craft Spirits Festival | Date TBA
The Whisky & Craft Spirits Festival celebrates great whisky and craft spirits from Australia and around the world, featuring a wide range of spirits, including some not seen before.

Taste of the Hunter Valley | Dates TBA
Sample Hunter Valley wine, beer, spirits, and produce at Taste of the Hunter Valley, returning to Newcastle in 2024.

SEPTEMBER

Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase | 13 Sep
The Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase Tour will be tearing up the freeways of Australia. Boasting a line-up of festival favourites and some of the freshest emerging talents, this jam-packed night of pure entertainment is bringing the best of the fest direct to you.
Where: Civic Theatre, 375 Hunter St, Newcastle

Living Smart Festival | 21 Sep
Living Smart Festival is one of Australia’s largest community sustainability events, with a mission to encourage people to learn about and embrace everyday sustainability practices.
Where: Speers Point Park

The Tap Pack | 21 Sep
Following sold-out shows and rave reviews on London’s West End and around the world, Australia’s hottest tap dance sensation, The Tap Pack, is coming to Newcastle! The Tap Pack gives a modern twist to the crooners and artists from the 50s through to the noughties.
Where: Civic Theatre, 375 Hunter St, Newcastle

Belinda Carlisle | 24 Sep
Returning to Australia with her ‘Decades’ tour, which celebrates 35 years of her solo career Belinda Carlisle's kicked off in 1978 with the Go-Go’s where she achieved stardom with hits including ‘We Got The Beat’ and ‘Our Lips Are Sealed’. 
Where: Civic Theatre, 375 Hunter St, Newcastle

An Audience with David Walliams | 25 Sep
Brace yourself for an outrageously cheeky evening with one of Britain’s best-loved comedians in this new live show experience from David Walliams. Expect wickedly funny tales, beloved characters, and a glimpse behind the curtain at never-before-seen moments from Walliams’ storied career, all served up with his signature wit and charm.
Where: Civic Theatre, 375 Hunter St, Newcastle

New Annual | Dates TBA
Ten days of art, culture and creativity in the centre of Newcastle. The vision of New Annual is to put Newcastle on the radar nationally and internationally, as a creative city where exciting, ambitious and accessible contemporary art and culture grows and thrives.

OCTOBER

Mary Poppins | 5 - 17 Oct
Adapted from the beloved stories by PL Travers and the original film, the magical tale of the world’s favourite nanny returns to the Civic Theatre stage in a spectacular and unforgettable new production of Mary Poppins.
Where: Civic Theatre, 375 Hunter St, Newcastle

Fernleigh 15 | 20 Oct
Run the Fernleigh Track and experience the beauty of this classic old rail line that has become the place to run and ride in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie.

Newcastle Pride Festival | Dates TBA
Brought to you by Newcastle Pride, Newcastle Pride Festival is all about celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community with Fair Day, parties, and more.

Italian Film Festival | Dates TBA
Celebrate some of the best of Italian cinema with the Italian Film Festival. There's comedies, dramas, and more to suit all tastes.

Fast & Loud Festival | Dates TBA
Catch exhilarating boat races, live music, roving entertainment, car shows, and more at Fast & Loud Festival.

NOVEMBER

Spark Helmore Triathlon | 10 Nov
The 31st annual Spark Helmore Triathlon is happening in 2024. With an electric atmosphere and a picturesque course, don't miss this iconic triathlon.

DECEMBER

New Year's Eve at Queens Wharf | 31 Dec
Send off the year that was at the Queens Wharf precinct, overlooking Newcastle Harbour. The area will be a hub of New Year's Eve excitement, perfect for all ages and abilities.

JANUARY 2025

Ngarrama | Date TBA
Ngarrama is an invitation for all to bring along your friends, family and a picnic blanket to engage in meaningful reconciliation through truth-telling, performances, song, and historical acceptance. The program includes a welcome to country, traditional dance, music, storytelling, and knowledge sharing.
Where: King Edward Park

FEBRUARY 2025

Cinema Under the Stars | Dates TBA
Enjoy a warm summer evening full of family fun at Cinema Under the Stars. Grab your free popcorn and dinner from local food trucks, and watch the film!
Where: Speers Point Park

MARCH 2025

Newcastle Beer Fest | Date TBA
Raise a glass and toast to Newcastle's vibrant craft beer scene at Newcastle Beer Fest. Try beer from stacks of local and national brewers in sunny King Edward Park.