What’s On in October 2026 – Newcastle, Lake Macquarie & Hunter Valley
October is packed with fun family activities, from school holiday shows to events and festivals. Discover things to do in October 2026 in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie & the Hunter.
Best Weekend Markets in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens & Hunter Valley
Wander through a local market. There are loads to choose from in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and the Hunter including farmers markets, art shows and more.
Best Kids TV Shows to Watch as a Family — From Preschoolers to Teenagers
Not all kids TV shows are created equal. This list covers the best shows for every age group — from gentle preschool picks your toddler will love to shows tweens and teens will actually choose to watch. Includes Australian favourites and international hits, all sorted so you can find the right show for the right age.
Baby and Kids Classes & Programs in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie & Hunter
Looking for a new kids class or mum and bubs activity this year? Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and the Hunter are home to a wide range of baby, kids, tweens and teen classes, from art and music to sport, drama and more.
September School Holidays: What’s On in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie & Hunter
Looking for ideas for the September / October school holidays? Discover family-friendly activities, events and things to do with kids across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and the Hunter.
Sydney Spring School Holidays 2026: 20+ Things to Do with Kids
Your complete guide to Sydney school holidays September and October 2026 — the best free, paid, outdoor and indoor activities for families across Greater Sydney.
Things to Do in Port Stephens with Kids
There’s so many things to do in beautiful Port Stephens including dolphin cruises, koala encounters, hikes, bike rides & beaches. So much fun for kids!
Where to Stay With Kids: Family-Friendly Accommodation Newcastle, Lake Macquarie & Hunter
Searching for family-friendly accommodation in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Hunter Valley or Port Stephens? Here’s a list for you of kid-friendly hotels, resorts & holiday parks.
Fort Scratchley: History, Tunnels and Views in Newcastle’s East End
Take your family and enjoy views and discover the past at Fort Scratchley in Newcastle. Either take a self-guided tour around the fort or do a guided tunnel tour.
Visit Newcastle and Hunter Toy Library to Borrow Toys & Games for Your Kids
Borrow toys for your kids at the Newcastle and Hunter Toy Library, a volunteer run community organisation that promotes play for children aged newborn to eight.
Newcastle Permanent’s Cinema Under the Stars Returns in October in Maitland & Lake Macquarie
Newcastle Permanent’s Cinema Under the Stars is back with a screening of How to Train Your Dragon at outdoor cinema in Maitland and Lake Macquarie in October.
Best Board Games for Kids, Teenagers & Families — The Ultimate Game Night Guide
Board games are one of the best things you can do as a family. This guide covers the best board games for every age — simple games for little kids, strategy games for older players, laugh-out-loud party games, and the best picks for teens. Whether you’re planning a family game night or looking for a gift, you’ll find what you need here.
Walka Water Works Limited to Walks & Picnics
Walka Water Works picnic and recreation area is partially-opened, while access to certain parts of the site are still limited.
Best Documentaries for Kids and Families
Make screen time count with a documentary! From local Aussie wildlife to global science adventures, here’s our pick of the best free-to-air documentaries for kids and families.