The Coastal Twist LGBTIQ Arts and Culture Festival is set to return from September 26-October 2 with seven days of fun, learning and surprises.
The festival first exploded onto the Central Coast scene in 2019 as a locally made, vibrant and original festival which was unique to the region and fun for all.
With an expected audience of 800, organisers were stunned when more than 7,000 turned up, making it the largest pilot festival Central Coast had ever hosted.
After COVID-19 cancellations in 2020 and 2021, the festival has continued to grow from strength to strength.
Last year saw a 35 per cent growth with more than 9,500 people attending completely sold-out events.
This year’s third incarnation of the festival promises to be the biggest yet, as artists, thinkers and innovators come together to present work that simultaneously entertains and expands our understanding of resilient communities and the Coast’s possibilities as an equitable and welcoming region.
Multiple Central Coast hubs will come alive with free and ticketed events to suit all ages and abilities at Woy Woy, Ettalong Beach, Gosford and Umina Beach with cabarets, live music, film, dance parties, youth and senior activations, art exhibitions, workshops, a wellbeing hub and even bingo.
The shining jewel of the festival, the free Coastie Carnie Fair Day on Sunday, October 1, will feature headliner live music and performance artists alongside locals with all day entertainment, a market with makers, local businesses, food and beverage outlets and the iconic Puparazzi Pooch Parade.
“This year’s festival theme, Inclusion Means You, is a call for everyone across the Coast and beyond to join us in nurturing a culture of respect for a happier, healthier and a more welcoming Central Coast,” festival director Glitta Supernova said.
“In times as polarising as these, Inclusion Means You encapsulates the ethos that everyone deserves to be heard, valued and welcomed with respect.”
Businesses are invited to become a festival partner by taking part in the window display competition for a chance to win great prizes or hosting a twisted experience with performers.
Makers and foodies are invited to register to have a stall at the fair day and residents can join the party by submitting artwork for the Community Art Exhibition, signing up their pets for the Puparazzi Pooch Parade or volunteering.
All information is available at www.coastaltwist.org.au
Source:
Coastal Twist