The Central Coast is preparing for one of its most exciting annual celebrations as The Lakes Festival 2026 returns from 6–15 November 2026. This spectacular 10-day event brings together live entertainment, outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, local markets and family-friendly activities across the beautiful waterways of the Central Coast.
With The Entrance and Tuggerah Lakes at the heart of the celebrations, The Lakes Festival is the perfect excuse to plan a coastal getaway, explore the region and experience everything this popular NSW holiday destination has to offer.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend escape from Sydney, a family holiday or a relaxing break by the water, HolidayCo The Entrance offers a wonderful selection of holiday accommodation to make the most of your festival experience.
Light Up the Lake: A Spectacular Night at The Entrance
One of the biggest highlights of The Lakes Festival 2026 is Light Up the Lake, taking place at Memorial Park, The Entrance, on Saturday 7 November.
This free waterfront celebration promises an unforgettable evening featuring live music, family entertainment, food stalls and a spectacular drone show illuminating the night sky above The Entrance.
Visitors can enjoy performances from talented Australian musicians, including Keli Holiday and BOY SODA, while children can take part in face painting, creative activities and interactive entertainment.
The evening’s centrepiece will be a spectacular drone display at 9pm, creating a memorable experience for families, couples and visitors enjoying a Central Coast getaway.
With its picturesque waterfront setting, relaxed coastal atmosphere and lively entertainment, Light Up the Lake is set to be one of the must-see events at The Entrance this November.
Explore The Lakes Festival: 10 Days of Things to Do on the Central Coast
The Lakes Festival is about much more than one spectacular evening. Throughout the 10-day celebration, visitors can discover a diverse program of activities showcasing the natural beauty, creativity and community spirit of the Central Coast.
Festival highlights include:
- Glow Kayak Tours: Experience the waterways after dark aboard illuminated kayaks for a unique adventure.
- Live Music and Entertainment: Enjoy performances, community celebrations and waterfront entertainment.
- Art Exhibitions and Creative Workshops: Discover local artists, handmade creations and cultural experiences.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Explore interactive displays, outdoor adventures and educational experiences for children.
- Markets and Local Food: Browse artisan markets, discover local produce and enjoy delicious food throughout the region.
- Environmental Experiences: Learn about the Central Coast’s lakes, marine life and the importance of protecting our beautiful waterways.
With activities taking place around The Entrance, Tuggerah Lakes, Terrigal, Avoca Beach and other Central Coast destinations, the festival provides plenty of opportunities to explore the region.
Discover The Entrance and Tuggerah Lakes
Located where Tuggerah Lake meets the Pacific Ocean, The Entrance is one of the Central Coast’s most popular holiday destinations, renowned for its beautiful waterways, coastal walks, family attractions and relaxed seaside lifestyle.
During The Lakes Festival, visitors can enjoy everything from waterfront dining and scenic cycling paths to swimming, fishing, kayaking and exploring nearby beaches.
Take a leisurely stroll along The Entrance waterfront, discover the famous pelicans, enjoy a picnic overlooking Tuggerah Lake or spend an afternoon relaxing on the golden sands of The Entrance Beach.
Nearby Long Jetty, Toowoon Bay, Blue Bay and Shelly Beach offer even more opportunities to experience the best of the Central Coast.
With so many things to see and do, The Lakes Festival is the perfect opportunity to turn a day trip into a memorable coastal holiday.
Family-Friendly Activities at The Entrance
For families planning a Central Coast holiday, The Entrance offers an excellent combination of entertainment, outdoor recreation and beautiful beaches.
Children will love exploring the waterfront playgrounds, watching the local pelicans, enjoying a swim at nearby beaches and participating in the many activities offered during The Lakes Festival.
The festival’s educational programs and environmental experiences also provide a wonderful opportunity for younger visitors to learn about the region’s unique waterways and marine ecosystems.
From morning beach adventures to afternoon markets and evening entertainment, there’s something for every generation to enjoy.
Make a Weekend of It with HolidayCo The Entrance
With so much happening throughout The Lakes Festival, why not extend your visit and enjoy a relaxing holiday on the Central Coast?
HolidayCo The Entrance offers a carefully selected range of holiday homes, waterfront apartments and family-friendly accommodation throughout The Entrance and surrounding coastal suburbs.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic weekend away, a spacious family holiday home or a waterfront apartment close to the action, our local team can help you find the perfect place to stay.
Booking directly through HolidayCo means enjoying local knowledge, personalised service and access to a wonderful selection of professionally managed holiday properties.
Spend your mornings exploring beautiful beaches, your afternoons discovering local cafes and attractions, and your evenings enjoying the festival’s entertainment before returning to the comfort of your own holiday accommodation.
The Lakes Festival 2026: Event Details
When: Friday 6 November – Sunday 15 November 2026
Where: The Entrance, Tuggerah Lakes and various locations across the Central Coast, NSW
Admission: Many festival activities are free, with selected experiences requiring bookings or ticket purchases.
Major highlight: Light Up the Lake, Saturday 7 November, Memorial Park, The Entrance, from 4pm.
For the latest festival program, event times and booking information, visit the official The Lakes Festival website.
Book Your Central Coast Getaway with HolidayCo
The Lakes Festival is a wonderful celebration of everything that makes The Entrance and the Central Coast such special places to visit.
From spectacular waterfront entertainment and vibrant community events to beautiful beaches, coastal dining and unforgettable outdoor experiences, there’s no better time to discover this stunning region of New South Wales.
Whether you’re planning a short weekend escape or an extended family holiday, make HolidayCo The Entrance your home away from home.
Explore holiday accommodation at The Entrance and book directly with HolidayCo for your next Central Coast getaway.
HolidayCo – for every season.
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