Here we are in February already and, after a January packed with great things to do, this month promises to be just as full.
From international sporting clashes and celebrations of diversity and inclusion, to live music, comedy and theatre (and everything in between), February in Newcastle offers something for all tastes.
Here are five events happening this month that we think are definitely worth checking out.
Enjoy!
Newcastle Beer Fest
King Edward Park
Saturday 18 February
After a couple of years on ice, Newcastle Beer Fest is back! This time around the celebration of Aussie-owned independent beer will be setting up at King Edward Park on Saturday 18 February.
You’ll find more than 30 breweries, both local and interstate, on the day as well as a raft of great street food and music from Big Booti, SF Wrens, Sneaky Freakers, and Turpentine Babycino.
Matildas V Jamaica
McDonald Jones Stadium
Wednesday 22 February
Here’s one for the soccer fans. McDonald Jones Stadium will play host to a Cup of Nations double header that will see Australia’s Matildas take on Jamaica (the brilliantly named Reggae Girlz) on Wednesday 22 February from 7.10pm.
The day will kick off with an exciting clash between Spain and Czechia (Czech Republic) from 2.30pm.
Also, $1 from every ticket will be donated to Australia’s newest sporting team the ParaMatildas!
Newcastle’s Pride Parade
Newcastle Foreshore
Saturday 18 February
Can’t make it to Sydney for WorldPride? Never mind because Newcastle Pride and Queer & Now will be bringing that WorldPride spirit to the city with the Newcastle Pride Parade.
You can expect a vibrant, lively, and FREE outdoor parade that celebrates local LGBTIQ+ culture, diversity and equality. You’re also encouraged to come as your most creative and colourful self as Newcastle Foreshore becomes awash with a sea of pride!
Come From Away
Civic Theatre
Wednesday 15 February - Sunday 5 March
This uplifting musical has been captivating hearts around the world and it seems that Newcastle has well-and-truly caught Come From Away fever with tickets flying out the door for the 23-show Civic Theatre run.
The story is set in Gander, Newfoundland where 38 planes carrying nearly 7,000 people from more than 100 countries were redirected in the wake of September 11, almost doubling the population of the remote Canadian town. It captures the generosity and hospitality of the small community who invited the “come from aways” into their homes.
Surfest
Various Locations
Saturday 11 February - Sunday 26 March
Now in its 37th year Surfest is the largest surfing festival in the Southern Hemisphere and an icon of Newcastle sporting culture.
This year, more than 800 male and female competitors from across the Asia-Pacific region will compete for cash prizes and World Surfing League rating points.
The action extends into March, too with events such as the Surfest indigenous Classic and the Burton Automotive Pro, sure to bring the spectators out in droves.
And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Remember to head here to keep up-to-date with everything happening around you.
Have a great February!