Coastal Twist set for October long weekend

This October long weekend, the Central Coast will come alive as the Coastal Twist LGBTIQA+ Arts & Culture Festival returns for its fifth year.

From September 30 to October 5, the region will transform into a playground of pride, unity, and creativity – a space where dazzling entertainment meets meaningful social change.

Across six days, audiences can expect a bold program of free community gatherings and ticketed spectacles – from the iconic Love Club Cabaret and immersive Dance Party to rainbow youth and seniors’ events, drag brunches, pride karaoke, art exhibitions, poetry, workshops, meet-ups and more.

With live music, circus, stalls, dance, drag, visual arts and family-friendly fun spread across Woy Woy, Ettalong Beach, Gosford and Umina, the festival celebrates both the struggles and the resilience of the region’s diverse communities.

The celebrations culminate on Sunday, October 5, with Coastie Carnie Family Fair Day – a free, family friendly extravaganza featuring all day entertainment, the much-loved Puparazzi Pooch Parade, artisan market stalls, delicious food, and showcases from local businesses and community organisations.

This year’s theme, Strength in Unity, is both a celebration and a rallying cry.

Festival Director Glitta Supernova said the rise of extremism and oligarchy continued to erode the safety and freedoms of the LGBTIQA+ community, women, multicultural communities and other marginalised groups.

“Now more than ever, it is imperative we embrace our differences, stand together, and work towards a future where equality belongs to everyone and cohesion stands,” she said.

Since its grassroots beginnings in 2019, Coastal Twist has grown into a landmark festival for the Central Coast and Australia – a space built with the support of local businesses, artists, volunteers and national partners.

It is as joy-filled as it is socially meaningful.

But 2025 has not been without challenges.

Supernova said significant Council funding cuts to the festival and layers of red tape had delayed planning, and piled tens of thousands of dollars in unexpected costs onto an already stretched community volunteer group.

“This has been a challenging year for LGBTQIA+ communities across the region,” she said.

“We’re going back to our roots with a think local approach, showcasing our community while still delivering a sensational program of art, heart and connection.”

“What began as a grassroots celebration is now also a fight for equity, and the right to gather in public spaces.”

Tickets, program details and participation opportunities are available at funhausfactory.org.au.