Australia Day 2026: What’s On In Newcastle, Lake Macquarie & the Hunter
To mark Australia Day 2026, there are family-friendly events happening around Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens and the Hunter.
To mark Australia Day 2026, there are family-friendly events happening around Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens and the Hunter.
The Maitland Showground will again come alive for three days in February 2026 with a range of activities, attractions, entertainment, competitions, and exhibitions along with an array of rides, amusements and free fun activities.
The Stockton Active Hub is amazing. With a great playground equipment and skate facilities plus fantastic harbour views of Newcastle, it’s a favourite with both kids and adults.
Here are some play-based activities and ideas that will support your preschooler and prepare them with the skills to be a lifelong learner.
For a fun free family day out, visit Newcastle Museum in Honeysuckle. There’s loads to keep kids of all ages occupied including the popular BHP Steelmaking show.
Want a gorgeous & adventurous walk with views and beach stops? Go for a hike from Caves Beach to Pinny Beach via Spoon Rocks. It’s a bit of an adventure with steep terrain in some spots, a staircase and fire trails to follow.
Explore the scenic 6km Bathers Way coastal walk in Newcastle from Nobbys Headland to Merewether Baths. Here’s our tips for doing the walk with kids.
For a whimsical experience, visit the Fairy Garden in Broadmeadow. This enchanted grotto created by a local neighbour, features trees, winding paths, lots of plants and many figurines. It’s a lovely little spot to take young kids.
Visit King Edward Park, a beautiful and historic park in the heart of Newcastle. It features fun play equipment suitable for kids of all ages.
Got family visiting? The Newcastle, NSW region is a beautiful place to show off to out-of-town guests. With so many options, we’ve pared it down to our top picks for playing tourist in the Newcastle region.
Looking for things to do with your children? Here are some ideas for fun family activities you can do at home with your kids.
What’s on in January? Here’s the month’s top events in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie & The Hunter specially selected for families.
Borrow toys for your kids at the Newcastle Toy Library, a volunteer run community organisation that promotes play for children aged newborn to eight.
Enjoy some family fun in Maitland this summer with a vibrant program of family-friendly events and community activities. There’s something for everyone to enjoy.