Big birthdays call for big celebrations, and Glendale City Centre is turning 30 in March.
For three decades, Glendale City Centre has been part of local family life from weekend shopping trips and Santa photos to coffee catch-ups, movie days and market mornings. Now, they’re inviting the community to celebrate this milestone with a month of fun, prizes and family-friendly activities including a big birthday party celebration on Saturday 28 March.
A Quick Look Back at Glendale’s History
Shopping at Glendale has been part of Lake Macquarie life since the mid-1990s. Construction began on an American-style mall in 1994 on what locals voted to call the “Glendale Supercentre.”
The centre officially opened on 28 March 1996, featuring some exciting firsts for the region like EFTPOS at every checkout and home delivery options.
Several retailers from opening day are still trading today, including Target, Woolworths, Lowes, Chemistworks and Best & Less, a testament to Glendale’s role in everyday local life.
The centre expanded in 2005 with an additional 8,749 sq.m built to bring Kmart to the centre as well as a number of specialties and mini majors. Now one of the most popular stores at the centre, a stop in at Kmart is now a hallmark of any visit to Glendale City Centre!
In 2022, the centre underwent a mammoth project to introduce the purpose-built shade and weather protection structure. Built to provide weather protection to customers on weekdays, it is home to the popular Glendale Farmers and Artisan Market, now a regular Saturday favourite.
In 2024, the centre rebranded as Glendale City Centre, reinforcing its focus on being a welcoming community hub.
To celebrate the 30th anniversary, Glendale City Centre is organising a month of celebrations.
Win a Share of $30,000 in Birthday Prizes
From 1 – 31 March, shoppers can enter to win a share of $30,000 worth of prizes.
How to enter
- Spend $30 or more at participating stores
- Upload a photo of your same-day receipt via the competition page
- Complete the entry form
You can combine up to three receipts to reach $30, and multiple entries are allowed with qualifying spends.
What you could win
- Major Prize: $10,000 Helloworld Travel voucher
- Runner-up prizes: 2 × $3,000 Glendale City Centre gift cards
- Weekly prizes including gift cards, appliances, gaming consoles, cinema packs and more.
It’s a great excuse for a family shopping trip, whether you’re ticking off errands or planning a relaxed browse.
What’s On for Families
Birthday Cake Display
Take a walk past the cake display showcasing slices of Glendale’s history, then snap a photo with the family.
- Located outside Nextra near Woolworths
- 1 – 31 March
Story Time Sessions
Perfect for preschoolers, these sessions include read-aloud stories and a craft activity.
- Every Monday in March
- 10:00am – 10:45am
- Inside Event Cinemas Glendale
- Free, no bookings required
Birthday Party Celebration
Glendale City Centre is turning 30 and you’re invited to the birthday celebration. Join the fun on Saturday 28 March from 10am – 2pm at Glendale City Centre, with plenty of free family activities happening throughout the centre.
The fun includes:
- Free birthday cupcake decorating outside Target (limited numbers)
- Free face painting
- Free balloon twisting
- Free Polaroid photo at the birthday cake display outside Nextra
You might also spot roaming ambassadors handing out gifts, enjoy a performance from local disability choirs at 11am, and keep an eye out for the Easter Bunny visiting the centre.
Easter Cinema
After the birthday celebration, families can continue the fun with Easter Cinema screenings of Hoppers! at Event Cinemas Glendale.
- Saturday 28 March – 2:00pm
- Sunday 29 March – 2:00pm
Tickets are $5 per person and include the movie, popcorn, drink and an Easter Bunny meet and greet.
Bookings for Easter Cinema are now open but will be snapped up quick.
While You’re Here
Don’t forget to explore the Glendale Farmers & Artisans Market, right next to the action under the market canopy. Stock up on fresh produce, handmade treats and local goodies. Open every Saturday from 8:00am – 2:00pm.