Lake Macquarie's art scene is buzzing - music, theatre, festivals, and experiences you can’t miss in 2026
Lake Macquarie’s arts calendar is filling up fast for 2026 with must-see live music, theatre, comedy, and immersive performances.
From headline touring acts to intimate local productions, this feature highlights the ultimate events to catch across the Lake Mac Arts Precinct – including exhibitions at MAC yapang, shows at MAP mima, performances at Warners Bay Theatre and Rathmines Theatre, interactive workshops, and the revitalised Sculpture Park.
Here’s what to see, when, and how to make the most of the creative year ahead.
July
Lake Mac POP BAM Festival - Pop Culture Festival | 25 Jul
Dive into a high-energy, multi-arts festival with live music, interactive performances, and creative experiences for all ages. Fun, vibrant, and a must for anyone looking to celebrate arts in the community.
Where: Hunter Sports Centre, kaiyu nungkiliko
August
Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase | 7 Aug
A jam-packed night of laughs featuring a curated lineup of the Festival’s hottest acts. From seasoned favourites to rising stars, expect two hours of non-stop comedy. So call your pals and grab your tickets to the funniest night of entertainment you will see all year – don’t miss out on a huge night of laughs!
Where: Warners Bay Theatre, baramayiba | Tickets: $50
Shoptalk: A New Musical (World Premiere) | 28 - 29 Aug
An original musical comedy exploring the absurdities of retail life. Follow a group of 20-something workers navigating burnout, crushes, and chaos - told with humour, heart, and catchy tunes.
Where: Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima | Tickets: $30
September
MAP mima Rocks | 26 Sep
MAP mima Rocks delivers a high-energy afternoon of alternative and grunge sounds. Local bands bring 90s-inspired riffs, raw indie vibes, and all-ages fun - a celebration of homegrown talent.
Where: Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima
October
Manhattan Short Film Festival | 2 Oct
Be part of a global film event screening in 500 cities worldwide. Watch ten finalist short films and vote for your favourite in this unique, audience-driven festival. Votes are sent through to Manhattan Short HQ and the winner is announced the following day.
Where: Warners Bay Theatre, baramayiba | Tickets: $15
Jazz at MAP mima | 9 Oct
Jazz at MAP mima delivers soulful and energetic performances inside the immersive 360° Cube. Expect intimate grooves, standout musicianship, and a night of smooth sounds.
Where: Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima | Tickets: $25
Pavilion Film Festival | 22 - 25 Oct
The inaugural Pavilion Film Festival brings bold storytelling and experimental cinema to MAP mima’s immersive Cube. Expect contemporary short films, digital narratives, and unexpected cinematic experiences.
Where: Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima | Tickets: $20
SONIDO: Andean & Latin American Roots | 24 Oct
Home-grown sounds capturing the magic of Latin America. Presented in association with Musica Viva Australia and Lake Mac Arts. Sonido is one of Australia’s longest-lived and most renowned exponents of Latin American folkloric music. Presented with Musica Viva Australia, this is a vibrant and soulful musical journey.
Where: Warners Bay Theatre, baramayiba | Tickets: $50
History Illuminated | 31 Oct - 8 Nov
Explore local heritage through exhibitions, performances, and talks celebrating Lake Macquarie’s rich stories.
Where: Various venues - Lake Mac Libraries
November
NEWK: The John Newcombe Story | 1 Nov
A rollicking theatre experience tracing the life of Australian tennis legend John Newcombe. Performed by Paul Armstrong, this engaging solo show is full of heart, humour, and nostalgia. So, grab a Cinzano and enjoy this rollicking ride about the life of one of Australia’s greatest sportsmen.
Where: Warners Bay Theatre, baramayiba | Tickets: $44
Australian Haydn Ensemble - Haydn’s Oxford | 7 Nov
Haydn, Mozart, and Boccherini share the stage in a program brimming with elegance, wit, and intimacy. From Boccherini’s storm-tinted piano quartet to Mozart’s sparkling chamber concerto and Haydn’s jubilant “Oxford” Symphony in Salomon’s nimble arrangement, expect music that charms, surprises, and graduates with honours - mortarboard optional.
Where: Rathmines Theatre, nawayiba | Tickets: $60
Peter and the Wolf & Other Tales | 22 Nov
Get ready for a joyful musical adventure perfect for kids and families! This concert features three exciting pieces that bring stories to life through sound: Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf, Britten’s Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra, and Strauss’s sparkling Overture to Die Fledermaus, which even appears in a classic Tom and Jerry cartoon. Come explore, listen, and enjoy the magic of music!
Where: Warners Bay Theatre, baramayiba | Tickets: $35 - 50
Experience the heart of Lake Mac Arts
Whether it’s a family-friendly festival, a night of laughter, or a soul-stirring concert, there’s something for everyone. Explore the full 2026 calendar, get all the event details, and secure your tickets at arts.lakemac.com.au.
