The NEWFM Winter Fun Fest returns to Nobbys Beach Reserve this July, and it’s shaping up to be bigger than ever. Running from 4–19 July 2026, the festival brings carnival rides, live entertainment, a circus, a petting zoo, classic carnival food and loads of free activities to one of Newcastle’s best outdoor spaces.
With entry at just $5 per person, it’s one of the more affordable school holiday outings you’ll find in Newcastle this winter.
What’s On at Winter Fun Fest 2026
This year the lineup covers something for every age group. The headline act is Circus Aurelia, performing three shows daily under the big top – free to watch with your entry ticket. Comedian Pretty Amazing Jono will also be entertaining crowds, and each day kicks off with a welcome from Frosty the Snowman.
The petting zoo runs daily from 11am to 4pm and is free to enter. It’s a handy option if you’ve got little ones who need a gentler pace between the bigger rides. New FM live broadcasts and Pirate Ruby’s magic show are also part of the daily mix, with the full entertainment schedule available on the event’s Facebook page.
Rides and Games
The ride lineup at Winter Fun Fest 2026 covers the full range, from white-knuckle thrills to gentle spins for the little ones.
Older kids and adults will want to head straight for the Freak Out – one of the festival’s signature rides with big views over Nobbys Beach Reserve. The Wipe Out is another high-energy option for those chasing a thrill. Dodgem Cars are always a crowd favourite and work well for a mix of ages, with younger children able to ride along with an adult.
For the younger crowd, the Kids Roller Coaster and the classic Cup and Saucer are great starting points. The Fun Factory also caters to smaller kids, with adults welcome to join in.
Each ride is individually priced using coupons purchased on-site. Some rides have age, height or weight requirements, so it’s worth checking the full ride information on the Winter Fun Fest website before you go, especially if you have mixed ages in your group.
Carnival Food
Fairy floss, dagwood dogs and all the carnival classics are available throughout the festival. It’s not a nutritious lunch, but it’s all part of the experience.
Tickets and Pricing
General admission is $5 per person (aged 4 and over) and is purchased at the gate. Children under 2 enter free with no ticket required.
For rides and games, you’ll need coupons – the event’s internal currency. 1 coupon is $2 or you can pick up a 30-coupon pack for $55 (saving $5 off the standard value of $60). Coupons can also be used at food and drink stalls.
Dates, Times and Location
Dates: 4–19 July 2026 (closed Mondays and Tuesdays)
Week 1: 4 – 5 July
Week 2: 8 – 13 July
Week 3: 15 – 19 July
Hours: 11am – 8pm daily
Location: Nobbys Beach Reserve, Nobbys Road, Newcastle
Check the Winter Fun Fest Facebook page for any schedule changes and the daily entertainment programme.
Fore more information, visit the Winter Fun Fest website.
Good to Know Before You Go
Parking near Nobbys Beach can fill up quickly on weekends and during school holidays, so aim to arrive early or consider parking further along the foreshore and walking in. The reserve is exposed in winter, so layers are a good idea, especially for evening sessions. The petting zoo wraps up at 4pm if that’s a priority for your visit.
Looking for more school holiday ideas? Check out our Newcastle School Holiday Guide for more family-friendly options across the region.