Get ready to take your kids on a cultural adventure without leaving the Hunter. Maitland Riverlights multicultural festival returns on Saturday 11 October, bursting with colour, music, food and fun for the whole family.
From 2pm to 9pm, The Levee in Central Maitland transforms into a vibrant global village, where families can explore over 50 cultures through interactive activities, performances and delicious eats. Whether your little ones love dancing, crafting or trying new foods, Riverlights is packed with memorable experiences.
School Holiday Fun | 7–10 October
Before the big day, Riverlights kicks off with a week of family-friendly activities during the school holidays. From Tuesday 7 to Friday 10 October, kids can:
- Try judo and spin poi
- Make their own lanterns
- Enjoy special storytime sessions at Maitland libraries
It’s the perfect way to keep kids entertained and inspired during the break. Explore the full program.
Riverlights Cultural Passport Adventure | 11 October
Pick up a free Cultural Passport and let your kids collect stamps as they travel through over 20 Cultural Villages. Each village offers hands-on fun like:
- Traditional games
- Craft activities
- Language lessons
- Tasty treats from around the world
It’s like a global scavenger hunt – educational, interactive and super fun.
Family-Friendly Stages and Performances
There’s something exciting happening around every corner:
World Stage
Catch colourful dance shows, a cultural fashion parade and official ceremonies. Hosted by Todd Sergeant, this is a great spot to sit back and soak up the sights.
Riverlights Stage
From 4pm to 9pm, enjoy high-energy performances by local and national acts. Expect music, movement and lots of dancing.
Groove Fusion Stage
Get ready to dance your heart out at the Groove Fusion Stage at Maitland Riverlights, it’s the ultimate spot for kids who love music, movement and fun!
This stage is bursting with high-energy performances from talented local dancers, along with incredible acts travelling in from Sydney, Melbourne, and across the Hunter Region. Expect colourful costumes, awesome music, and cool dance moves that will get your feet tapping in no time!
And don’t miss the fun and feel-good performance by the amazing Chance2dance kids, guaranteed to put a smile on everyone’s face.
Throughout the evening, there’ll be interactive dance workshops where you can jump in, learn some new moves, and dance along with the performers. Try out traditional steps with the Čekor Macedonian Dance Company, move with the Mixed Mobs Dance Group, and explore performances from all over the world, including Greek, Māori and African cultures!
Dance Workshops
Kids can join in on interactive dance workshops – from Belly Dancing to Gypsy Gym Zumba. No experience needed, just bring your best moves and biggest smiles.
Book your spot
Riverlights Eatery
Refuel with family favourites from local food trucks, including:
- Woodfired pizza
- Churros
- Gozleme
- Teppanyaki noodles
- Sri Lankan curries
- Honey balls
There’s something for even the pickiest eaters.
Language Lounge and Quiet Spaces
Express Yourself Language Lounge
Kids can learn greetings in different languages, sing songs, and hear stories from around the world.
Including You Space
Need a break? This calm zone offers teepees, fidget toys, books, and noise-cancelling headphones – perfect for families with sensory needs or little ones needing downtime.
Riverlights Finale and Parade
Don’t miss the magical Riverlights Community Parade at sunset. Expect:
- Giant glowing puppets
- LED dragons and fairies
- Drummers and dancers
- A floating lantern flotilla on the Hunter River
The night wraps up with a dazzling performance by Kinder, a sister duo bringing Afro-electronic beats and joyful energy to the Riverlights Stage.
Plan Your Family Day Out
Whether you’re chasing lanterns, dancing in the street, or tasting your way around the world, Riverlights 2025 is the ultimate family day out. See you there.
Date: Saturday 11 October
Time: 2pm – 9pm
Location: The Levee, Central Maitland
Cost: Free
For full details and updates, visit the Maitland Riverlights website.