Three weeks of colour, connection, and celebration is coming to Newcastle

Newcastle is set to sparkle this October as the Newcastle Pride Festival returns for its sixth spectacular year, running from Friday, October 3 to Sunday, October 26. 

What began as a grassroots gathering has evolved into one of NSW’s premier LGBTQIA+ celebrations, drawing over 12,000 in 2024 and building a strong reputation as a vibrant, inclusive, and unmissable event. 

Across three fabulous weeks, Newcastle Pride Festival will offer a dynamic program that caters to all ages and interests. Standout events include the ever-colourful Newcastle Pride Parade, the lively and much-loved Fair Day, and the high-energy POOF DOOF + DYKE DOOF afterparty. 

Newcastle Pride Festival attendees can also immerse themselves in drag shows, art exhibitions, creative workshops, live music, storytelling, and cultural showcases. Some of this year’s highlights include: 

“Newcastle Pride Festival is about more than just celebration, it’s about visibility, solidarity, and making space for every voice in our community,” said President Lee-Anne McDougall.

The Newcastle Pride Festival has become more than a calendar highlight, it’s a movement that amplifies voices, builds connections, and showcases the beauty of a united community. 

Mark your calendars, gather your friends, and bring your fabulous self. This October, Newcastle Pride Festival invites you to step into the streets, onto the dance floor, and into a space where pride, truth, and community shine brighter than ever. 

Newcastle Pride Festival 

When: Friday 9 - Saturday 24 October, 2026
Where: Various venues across Newcastle