Be a part of this year’s Lakes Festival

The festival is a highlight of the Coast's events calendar

Central Coast Council is inviting businesses, community groups and event organisers to propose an event or activity to be a part of this year’s 10-day Lakes Festival program, to be held in November.

Celebrating the Coast’s diverse waterways, the festival will run from November 8-17.

Council’s Unit Manager Community and Culture Glenn Cannard said the Lakes Festival was one of the region’s biggest events which debuted every Spring and was made special by locals who hosted a variety of entertaining and innovative activities.

“The calendar of events linked to the Lakes Festival program last year attracted more than 10,000 festivalgoers,” he said.

“This year we are continuing to seek expressions of interests from new and returning businesses, companies, organisations and community groups who have a unique activity or event concept.

“No idea is too big or too small.

“Ideas can be anything centred on the theme, or location of our waterways – from festivals to sporting events, art events, outdoor installations, water education, workshops, and community events.

“So if you’re a local business with an idea, or you know of a business who would be perfect in this year’s program, make sure you reach out to our team and see if we can look at adding you into the festival.”

The successful applicants for 2024 will benefit by being included in Council’s festival program and marketing campaign.

There is also the opportunity to apply for funding as part of the expression of interest application under the Event Innovation Funding program.

The funding is aimed at assisting events that meet the criteria upon application.

Council Administrator Rik Hart said festival was a fun occasion that played a significant role in teaching locals and tourists about the region’s waterways.

“I’m excited to see what this year’s program has in store as the Lakes Festival is celebrated across the Coast and is made possible by the ideas and contributions of so many amazing local businesses, groups, and organisations,” he said.

“Our waterways are part of the Central Coast’s identity and it’s important to continue to celebrate and educate the local community and visitors alike.”

Submissions will close at 2pm on Monday, March 11.

To find out more, view the full guidelines and get involved visit https://www.centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/council/eoi/expression-interest-lakes-festival-2024