The Hunter Region

Events in and around The Hunter Region

As the seasons change, so do the opportunities for fun and exciting events in and around the Hunter Region of New South Wales, Australia. From festivals and markets to sporting events and concerts, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here are just a few of the many seasonal events happening in the area:

Spring:

- Hunter Valley Wine Festival: Held in early September, this festival celebrates the region's rich wine culture with tastings, food stalls, live music, and more. Contact: 02 4993 6700
- Newcastle Jazz Festival: Also in early September, this festival brings together local and international jazz musicians for three days of performances at various venues around Newcastle. Contact: 02 4929 1977
- Morpeth Fair: This annual fair in mid-September features markets, live entertainment, and a range of activities for the whole family to enjoy. Contact: 0438 396 613
- Lake Macquarie Running Festival: Runners of all levels can take part in this festival, held in late September, which includes a marathon, half marathon, 10km, and 4km fun run. Contact: 0407 072 345

Summer:

- Newcastle Food & Wine Expo: This three-day expo in early January showcases local and international food and wine, with tastings, cooking demonstrations, and exhibitor stalls. Contact: 02 4921 2121
- Surfest Newcastle: The world's longest running surf festival, held in late February, attracts surfers and spectators from around the globe for competitions, music, and beachside entertainment. Contact: 02 4974 2176
- Newcastle Fringe Festival: This multi-arts festival, held in late February and early March, features theatre, dance, music, comedy, and more at various venues around the city. Contact: 0448 986 959
- Maitland Riverlights Multicultural Festival: Celebrating cultural diversity, this festival in late March includes food, music, dance, and crafts from around the world. Contact: 02 4934 9700

Autumn:

- Hunter Valley Balloon Fiesta: Witness the stunning sight of hot air balloons floating over the vineyards of the Hunter Valley in late April, with balloon rides, wine tastings, and entertainment on the ground. Contact: 02 4990 4500
- Lovedale Long Lunch: This annual event in mid-May sees wineries and restaurants in the Lovedale region team up for a progressive lunch, featuring food and wine pairings and live music. Contact: 0402 018 295
- Aroma Festival: Coffee lovers won't want to miss this festival in late May, which celebrates Newcastle's thriving coffee culture with tastings, workshops, and barista competitions. Contact: 02 4911 4145
- Hunter Valley Cheese & Chocolate Festival: This sweet and savoury festival in late May features local cheeses, chocolates, and wine, as well as cooking demonstrations and live entertainment. Contact: 02 4990 4500

Winter:

- Hunter Valley Wine & Food Festival: Running from June to August, this festival showcases the best of the region's wine and food, with cellar door tastings, special events, and themed weekends. Contact: 02 4990 4477
- Hunter Valley Gardens Winter Festival: In late June and early July, the Hunter Valley Gardens come alive with lights, ice skating, snow play, and a range of winter activities for all ages. Contact: 02 4998 4000
- Maitland Winter Steamfest: Steam locomotives and vintage machinery take centre stage at this festival in mid-July, which also includes markets, live music, and demonstrations. Contact: 02 4931 2800
- Newcastle Jazz & Blues Festival: Held in late July, this festival features local and international jazz and blues acts performing at venues around Newcastle. Contact: 02 4929 1977

This is just a small selection of the many seasonal events happening in and around the Hunter Region of New South Wales. Check local event websites or contact the local tourist information centers for more details and additional events in the area.