Enjoy the Long Weekend with Exciting Events in Australia
As the holidays come to an end and we gear up for the working year of 2024, the upcoming long weekend provides a perfect opportunity to rest, reflect, and make the most of the last public holiday until Easter. Whether you’re looking for free or low-cost activities, the Hunter region in Australia has a range of events to suit all ages.
Cessnock: Australia Day Awards and Citizenship Ceremony
On Friday, January 26th, Cessnock City Council will host its annual Australia Day Awards and citizenship ceremony at Performance Arts Culture Cessnock (PACC). This event aims to recognize community members who have made significant contributions, demonstrated excellence in their field, or serve as role models for future generations. Join in the celebration and show your support. Admission is free.
Lake Macquarie: Social Beach Volleyball and More
Head over to Blacksmiths Beach on Friday, January 26th, for a day of social beach volleyball organized by Hunter Volleyball. With divisions for men’s and women’s pairs, as well as a mixed 3s division, there’s something for everyone. Bring your own shelter, enjoy the beautiful views, and participate in the players’ BBQ at Belmont SLSC. Admission is free.
If you’re looking for a family-friendly event, check out Valentine Australia Day at Alambee Park. From 10am to 2pm on Friday, January 26th, enjoy activities, morning tea, and music at Alambee Park.
For food specials and Yabby Racing, head to Harrigan’s Cameron Park. They will be offering food specials all day on Friday, January 26th, with Yabby Racing taking place from 2pm to 4pm.
If you’re in the mood for some water fun, don’t miss the Stress-Free Splash Zone at Speers Point Park. Hosted by the Lake Macquarie & Newcastle Suicide Prevention Network, this event offers an inflatable water slide, water play arena, and other lawn games. Join in the fun on Saturday, January 27th, from 10am to 3pm. All are welcome.
Maitland: Dive in Cinema and Australia Day Festivities
Experience a unique movie night at Maitland Aquatic Centre with Dive In Cinema. On Friday, January 26th, starting at 5pm, you can watch the films “Paper Planes” (G) and “Red Dog” (PG) from the pool. Enjoy entertainment, food, laser tag, lawn games, and free swim time. Tickets are $5 per person for an out-of-pool ticket and $10 per person for an in-pool ticket.
Join Maitland City Council for their annual Australia Day festivities at Maitland Park. From 7.30am to 12.30pm, enjoy games, activities, performances, food, art and craft, and live entertainment.
East Maitland Aquatic Centre is also hosting a family-fun day from 10am to 4pm on Friday, January 26th. Admission is free.
Newcastle: Ngarrama and Beach 5s Australia Day Festival
Immerse yourself in an evening of reflection, reconciliation, performance, and culture at Ngarrama. Taking place at King Edward Park on Thursday, January 25th, from 7pm to 9pm, this event is free and family-friendly.
For a fast-paced beach rugby experience, don’t miss the Beach 5s Australia Day Festival at Nobbys Beach. The festival runs from Friday, January 26th, to Sunday, January 28th, and offers free entry for spectators.
If you’re up for a challenge, consider participating in the Newcastle Harbour Swim. This annual event features single and double crossings of the Newcastle to Stockton swim. Join in on Friday, January 26th, from 10am to noon. Spectators can attend for free, while swim entry fees range from $55 to $75.
Port Stephens: Celebrate Australia Day in Various Locations
Riverside Park in Raymond Terrace is hosting an Australia Day celebration with a citizenship ceremony, BBQ, marching band, RAAF flypast, coffee, rides, markets, kids’ entertainment, demonstrations, live music, and more. Join the festivities from 8am to 1.30pm. Admission is free.
In Nelson Bay, Fly Point Park will come alive with a citizenship ceremony, live music, RAAF flypast, food and drinks, free flags and jumping castles for kids, sheep shearing demonstrations, dance shows, markets, a vintage and classic cars display, entertainment, displays, and workshops. Entry is by gold coin donation to support local charities. The event takes place on Friday, January 26th, from 9.30am to 3.45pm.
For live music, a Great Aussie Breakfast, and an Auto Car Club display, head to Tilligerry Lions Club/Henderson Park in Lemon Tree Passage on Friday, January 26th, from 8am to noon. Admission is free.
In Karuah, enjoy a fresh produce competition and auctions supporting the local RFS. The event also features a thong throwing competition, bowls, entertainment, and fireworks. Join in the fun on Friday, January 26th, from 10am to midnight at Karuah RSL. Admission is free.
Singleton: Australia Day Ceremony and Awards
Singleton Council is hosting an Australia Day Ceremony and Awards at Singleton Civic Centre. The event kicks off with a BBQ breakfast (gold coin donation) at 8.30am, followed by the awards ceremony. If you can’t attend in person, the event will be livestreamed on Singleton Council’s Facebook page and website.
Additionally, enjoy free entry to the Singleton Gym and Swim on Friday.
Conclusion
Make the most of the upcoming long weekend by participating in the exciting events happening across the Hunter region. Whether you’re looking for cultural celebrations, sports competitions, or family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Take this opportunity to rest, reflect, and have fun with friends and family.
About the Article
This article was written by [Author Name], a contributor to [Website Name]. They are passionate about promoting local events and activities in the Newcastle area. Stay updated with the latest news, sports, real estate, entertainment, lifestyle, and more by subscribing to the Newcastle Weekly Daily Newsletter.
George Barham, an accomplished journalist and avid gambling enthusiast, serves as the esteemed Editor-in-Chief at fly-to-australia.com, Australia’s leading source for comprehensive gambling news and insights. With an unwavering passion for both the written word and the ever-evolving world of betting and gaming, George brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the helm of our editorial team.
