What's On Newcastle, Lake Macquarie & the Hunter | March 2025
Get intouch with what's on this March in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie & the Hunter...
WEDNESDAY 5 MARCH
Ocean Film Festival Tour at Event Cinemas Kotara
This unique collection of short films from around the globe documents the beauty and power of the ocean and celebrates the divers, surfers, swimmers and oceanographers who live for the sea’s salt spray; who chase the crests of waves; and who marvel at the mysteries of the big blue. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.oceanfilmfestival.com.au.
THURSDAY 6 MARCH
Jess Hitchcock & Penny Quartet at Civic Theatre
Singer-songwriter Jess Hitchcock and the Penny Quartet offer a celebration of creativity as they perform her songs, reimagined for voice and strings by some of Australia’s top composers. Expect a blend of dreams and memories, grace and groove. Step into a world of endless possibilities. For more information or to purchase tickets visit, www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au
FRIDAY 7 – SUNDAY 9 MARCH
Black Pearl MTB Stage Race at various locations in Newcastle
Prepare for a weekend packed full of fun riding and great times as you explore the iconic Glenrock and Awaba trails. With classic trails like Twisties, Double Barrel, and Snakes & Ladders featuring in the Prelude time trial, followed by challenging stages at Awaba and a spectacular coastal stage incorporating trails like Whitebridge and Fernleigh, the 2025 Black Pearl promises to be even bigger and better. For more information, visit www.quadcrownmtb.com.au.
FRIDAY 7 – SUNDAY 16 MARCH
Women in Sport Festival at various locations in Lake Macquarie
The Lake Mac Women in Sport Festival celebrates women’s athletic excellence, promotes the health benefits of sport, and encourages women and girls to stay active at all stages of life. It offers a range of activities, educates on empowerment, and fosters community involvement, welcoming everyone to participate and support. For more information, visit www.lakemac.com.au.
SATURDAY 8 MARCH
LOOKOUT Festival at Speers Point Park
LOOKOUT is cranking up the excitement for 2025 with an unforgettable music event, featuring Australian rock legends like JET, Grinspoon, The Veronicas, Spiderbait, Jebediah, Magic Dirt, and more. Grab your mates and get ready to rock out at one of the most anticipated festivals of the year! For more info, visit www.lookouttour.com.au.
The Wharf Revue: The End of the Wharf As We Know It at Civic Theatre Newcastle
Created by Jonathan Biggins, Drew Forsythe, and Phillip Scott, The Wharf Revue has decided to retire after 25 years of satirising Australian politics. The team, including Biggins, Mandy Bishop, Forsythe, Scott, and David Whitney, will perform a final show, reflecting on past politicians and today’s leaders. It’s a bittersweet farewell, with no flowers requested. For tickets visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au.
SUNDAY 9 MARCH
Camp Quality Convoy Newcastle Family Festival at Maitland Showground
On this family fun day, supporters will cheer the convoy on as it rumbles around a 38-kilometre loop in support of children and families battling cancer. Think food vans, rides, face painting, roving entertainment, live music, fundraising awards ceremonies, and of course the opportunity to cheer on the returning Convoy and check out all the trucks and vehicles at the ‘Show and Shine” after the Convoy returns. For more information, visit www.fundraise.campquality.org.au.
Sunshine on Leith at Laneway Theatre
Laneway Theatre Flicks Presents Sunshine on Leith, a musical/comedy directed by Dexter Fletcher. The 2013 Box Office hit is based on the sensational stage hit of the same name, featuring music by pop-folk band The Proclaimers. The film follows the stories of Davy and Ally, who have to re-learn how to live life in Edinburgh after coming home from serving in Afghanistan. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.newcastletheatrecompany.com.au.
SATURDAY 15 MARCH
Over Land & Sea at Adamstown Uniting Church
Raphael Hudson performs 12 songs from Schubert's Winterreise, while mezzo-soprano Anthea Harrington sings Elgar’s Sea Pictures, accompanied by Mercia Buck in the soiree, Over Land & Sea. You don’t want to miss out - Both were stellar in Opera Hunter’s Carmen (July 2024)! Tickets available now visit www.stickytickets.com.au.
Newcastle Paint & Sip x Paint Juicy at Great Northern Hotel
Paint Juicy Paint and Sip is a 100% Australian owned and run business that puts a unique spin on what a paint and sip can be. It's all about epic tunes, fun times, great food and drink and plenty of laughs. For more information, visit www.gnhotel.com.au.
MONDAY 17 MARCH
Late Bloomer, Sarah Millican at Newcastle Entertainment Centre
In her brand-new stand-up show Late Bloomer, Sarah Millican takes the audience on a hilarious journey from her shy, awkward childhood to her confident, outspoken adult self. Once the quiet girl with few friends until she was 16, Sarah now boasts a lively personality and a love for making fun of geese. Late Bloomer is a celebration of how far Sarah has come—and an invitation to laugh at, with, and alongside her. For more information, visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au.
TUESDAY 18 MARCH
Path 2 Change Casino Charity Night at NINETEEN Hunter Valley
Step back in time to the glitz and glamour of the Roaring 20s for an unforgettable evening of blackjack, roulette, and great company, all in support of Path 2 Change – a non-profit organisation dedicated to empowering young people experiencing homelessness. For more info, visit www.nineteenhuntervalley.com.au.
THURSDAY 20 – SATURDAY 29 MARCH
The Prophetic Tragedy of Macbeth and Those Who Knew Him at Civic Theatre
Presented by UpStage at the Playhouse and adapted by Pippa Thoroughgood, Macbeth offers a fresh take on Shakespeare’s iconic tragedy. Produced by All's One Theatre, this adaptation delves into the destructive power of unchecked ambition and is aimed at adolescents and young adults. This version of Macbeth explores timeless themes of moral decay and the devastating consequences of ambition. For more info or to purchase tickets, visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au.
SUNDAY 23 MARCH
Eishan Ensemble at Rathmines Theatre
From Womad, Auckland Arts Festival, Rome Jazz Festival to Sydney Opera House and Melbourne Recital Hall, Eishan Ensemble is coming to Lake Macquarie. Led by acclaimed Persian-Australian tar virtuoso and composer, Hamed Sadeghi, the ARIA nominated Eishan Ensemble draws on contemporary and classical music traditions of both East and West. For more information or to purchase tickets www.arts.lakemac.com.au.
FRIDAY 28 – SUNDAY 30 MARCH
Kurri Kurri Nostalgia Festival at Lang Street Rotary Park
Rock 'n' roll, classic cars, hot rods, vintage fashion, music, dancing, and all the best aspects of the '50s and '60s are set to come back to life at the annual Kurri Kurri Nostalgia Festival! The weekend usually attracts large crowds of people from all over Australia to join in the atmosphere as the town centre is transformed into a vibrant celebration of the nostalgia and charm of a past era. You don’t want to miss this! For more information, visit www.kurrikurrinostalgiafestival.com.au.
SATURDAY 29 MARCH
Stockton’s Rockin’ the Green at Stockton Bowling Club
Prepare for an epic day of live music, good vibes, and family fun at Stockton Bowling Club! Live entertainment all day on the green, it’s the perfect spot to sit in the sun and relax! Kids entry is free. For more information or to purchase a ticket, visit www.stocktonbowlingclub.com.au.
SUNDAY 30 MARCH
Newcastle’s Annual Wedding Expo 2025 at Newcastle Entertainment Centre
Newcastle's Annual Wedding Expo is a must-visit event for couples, featuring over 80 top wedding vendors, from florists to photographers, bridal gowns to honeymoon packages. Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with live entertainment, exclusive offers, and everything you need to plan your dream wedding. For more information, visit www.weddingexposaustralia.com.
FRIDAY 4 – SUNDAY 6 APRIL
Newcastle Writers Festival at Various Newcastle Venues
Returning for its 12th year, the inaugural Newcastle Writers Festival celebrates the best Australian writing and provides the opportunity to meet your favourite authors at free and ticketed events. Run over three days, the festival is bursting with panel discussions, readings, interviews, and book launches. For the complete program and to book your tickets, visit
SUNDAY 6 APRIL
Christ Church Camerata’s Screentime at Christ Church Cathedral
Turn your screens off for an hour and escape to the movies, as the Camerata rolls out the red carpet for great music from cinema, TV and video games! And there are prizes to be won - dress up as your favourite character for the afternoon. Repertoire includes Pirates of the Caribbean, Cinema Paradiso, Schindler's List, Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, Minecraft, A Country Practice, Howl's Moving Castle & more. For more information, visit www.cccamerata.com.au.
FRIDAY 11 APRIL
Dion Pride at NEX Newcastle
Dion Pride, son of Country Music Hall of Fame legend Charley Pride, is set to stop in at Newcastle for one night only! Known for captivating global audiences, Dion’s performances blend his soulful voice with his musical prowess. He carries on his father’s legacy while forging his own path in country music, remaining humble and dedicated. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.dionprideshow.com.
