It’s festival season! As soon as Spring arrives, there’s a plethora of Spring Festivals, Fetes & Fairs happening across Sydney’s North Shore. Get your calendars ready… and discover the best events to attend in our Spring Festival Guide! Here’s the best Spring Festivals for families.
Upcoming Spring Festivals around Sydney’s North Shore
Spring on Sydney’s North Shore means one thing – festival season is in full swing! From vibrant community fairs and family-friendly fetes to foodie celebrations and cultural showcases, the region comes alive with colour, music, markets, and entertainment. Whether you’re looking for a fun day out with the kids, a chance to discover local food and wine, or to soak up the lively atmosphere, there’s an event for everyone.
Our Spring Festivals Guide for Sydney’s North Shore 2025 highlights the very best fairs, fetes, and festivals happening across September, October, and November. Expect iconic favourites like the Lane Cove Festival, Chatswood StreetFair, Granny Smith Festival, Wahroonga Food & Wine Festival, and Crows Nest Fest – alongside hidden gems and local school fairs that showcase community spirit at its best.
Get your diary ready, gather the family, and start planning – here are the best Spring Festivals on Sydney’s North Shore this season.
Spring Festivals: What’s On in September 2025
- Lane Cove Festival: 30 August – 30 September
- Emerge Festival, Willoughby: 30 August – 19 October
- Ku-ring-Gai’s Eco Festival: 1-30 September
- Orange Blossom Festival, Castle Hill: 5-30 September
- Sydney Fringe Festival: 1-30 September
- Berowra Woodchop Festival: Saturday 6 September
- Hornsby Girls High School Spring Fair: Saturday 6 September
- Moocooboola Festival: Sunday 7 September
- Barker College Spring Fair: 13 September
- Pymble Ladies’ College Garden Party: Saturday 20 September
- St Ives Food & Wine Festival: Sunday 21 September
- Spot On Children’s Festival, Parramatta: 30 September – 9 October
Spring Festivals: What’s On in October 2025
- Leura Gardens Festival: 3 – 6 October
- Hills Food & Wine Festival: Sunday 12 October
- Newcastle Festival of Sweets & Treats: Sunday 12 October
- Granny Smith Festival, Ryde: Saturday 18 October
- Spring Twilight Concert in the Park, Wahroonga: Saturday 18 October
- Hunter Valley Uncorked: Balmoral Food & Wine Festival: Sunday 19 October
- Crows Nest Fest: Sunday 19 October
- Brooklyn Spring Fair: Sunday 19 October
- Wahroonga Food & Wine Festival: Sunday 26 October
Spring Festivals: What’s On in November 2025
- Food & Wine By the River: Sunday 2 November
- Arcadian Artists Trail: Saturday 8 & Sunday 9 November
Spring Festivals: What’s On in September 2025
Lane Cove Festival
Lane Cove Festival
This September, Lane Cove comes alive with the return of the Lane Cove Festival – a month-long celebration of community, culture, and creativity. With a vibrant line-up of performances, workshops, markets, family activities, and more, the festival brings together local organisations, artists, and groups from across the Lane Cove LGA.
Highlights include Lane Cove Festival @ Sydney Fringe, showcasing bold cabaret, live music, theatre, and dance, alongside community favourites such as the Spring Native Plant Stall, Lane Cove Fun Run, Petting Zoo, and Makers Market. Music lovers can enjoy intimate jazz sets, community concerts, and large-scale performances, such as Lane Cove Live, while families can participate in outdoor fitness, orienteering, and storytelling events.
Cultural celebrations such as Ganesha Chaturthi and the Navratri Gala bring rich traditions to the heart of Lane Cove, while thought-provoking theatre and art exhibitions add depth to the program. Foodies won’t want to miss Fringe on a Stick, a month-long food trail offering delicious tastes across the village.
Whether you’re seeking entertainment, connection, or simply a fun day out, Lane Cove Festival has something for everyone.
- When: 30 August – 30 September
- Where: Lane Cove
- Events details
Emerge Festival, Willoughby
Emerge Festival is a time to come out in the spring warmth and discover the hidden gems that are in Willoughby and dive into something new and exciting.
With over 50 events run by the community and Willoughby City Council, there’s something for everyone.
Party with the crowds at large events like the annual Chatswood StreetFair and the Matsuri Japan Festival, get entranced by musicals and tribute shows at our many theatre shows or attend smaller, intimate activities like bushwalks, discoveries and workshops to upskill yourself.
As well as being the first to try out new events, including Grazing on the Green at the Northbridge Golf Club, and celebrate the cultural Mid-Autumn festivities in October in Chatswood Mall over two weekends.
There’s a whole lot to see, play and experience at Emerge 2025.
- When: Saturday 30 August – Sunday 19 October
- Where: Willoughby
- Events details
Ku-ring-gai’s Eco Festival
Ku-ring-gai’s Eco Festival
This September, Ku-ring-gai Council invites you to be part of the Ku-ring-gai Eco Festival – a month-long celebration of sustainable living designed to connect, inspire, educate, and empower our community.
Running from 1–30 September 2025, the festival brings together solution makers, innovators, and community partners to share practical ways we can all reduce our impact on the planet.
The program offers an exciting mix of workshops, talks, children’s activities, demonstrations, and community events, all designed to promote cleaner, greener lifestyles. From waste reduction and energy-saving solutions to sustainable gardening, eco-friendly fashion, and local conservation, there are numerous opportunities to acquire new skills and take meaningful action.
Families will enjoy hands-on activities designed to engage younger generations, while residents and businesses can explore innovative pathways to achieving net-zero emissions. Festival-goers are also encouraged to visit Ku-ring-gai’s Net Zero site, offering practical tools and resources for making sustainable changes at home, school, and work.
Whether you’re starting your sustainability journey or seeking fresh ideas, the Eco Festival is the ideal place to be inspired and make a positive impact on our shared future.
- When: Monday 1 September – Tuesday 30 September
- Where: Ku-ring-gai
- Events details
Orange Blossom Festival, Castle Hill
Orange Blossom Festival, Castle Hill
The Hills Shire’s much-loved Orange Blossom Festival is back this September with a vibrant line-up of community events, family fun, music, art, and cultural celebrations. With a history spanning more than six decades, OBF remains the Hills’ largest annual festival and a highlight on the local calendar.
The month-long program kicks off with the Bonsai Society of Australia Annual Show (5 Sept) and Echoes at Bella Vista Farm, a stunning reimagining of one of the Shire’s most historic landmarks through light and sound. Sport lovers can try something new at the Come and Try BMX Day (6 Sept) or lace up for Run for the Hills (7 Sept).
Festival favourites include the Annual Art Awards (12 Sept), the colourful OBF Street Parade (13 Sept), and the much-anticipated Kenthurst Fair (14 Sept). Families can enjoy the Emergency Expo (14 Sept), Spring Family Fun Day (30 Sept), and live jazz at the historic Roughley House with Jazz at the Pines (21 Sept).
Foodies won’t want to miss A Taste of Wisemans (28 Sept), showcasing local produce, wine, and gourmet delights.
- When: Friday 5 September – Sunday 30 September
- Where: Castle Hill
- Events details
Sydney Fringe Festival
Sydney’s biggest celebration of independent arts is back! Running from 1 to 30 September 2025, the Sydney Fringe Festival will transform the city into a vibrant playground of creativity, with over 400 events spanning theatre, comedy, visual arts, music, dance, cabaret, and more.
From the sparkling waters of Darling Harbour to the hidden corners of the inner city, Sydney comes alive with a diverse range of unique venues and unforgettable performances. Expect intimate theatre productions that challenge and inspire, laugh-out-loud comedy nights, bold visual art installations, and live music that will keep you moving well into the night.
This year’s program shines a spotlight on Sydney’s incredible creative talent, alongside visiting international artists who bring fresh perspectives and energy to the stage. Whether you’re seeking thought-provoking art, a night of laughter, or a chance to discover your new favourite band, the Sydney Fringe offers something for everyone.
Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in Sydney’s most dynamic cultural experience. Gather your friends, explore something unexpected, and celebrate the diversity of our city’s independent arts scene.
- When: Monday 1 September – Tuesday 30 September
- Where: Sydney NSW
- Event details
Hornsby Girls High School Spring Fair
Get ready for a vibrant community celebration at the Hornsby Girls High School Spring Fair on Saturday 6 September 2025, from 10am to 3pm. Hosted by HGHS parents and students, the fair is a much-loved event that brings families, friends, and neighbours together while raising valuable funds for the school.
Enjoy a full day of fun with live student performances, exciting games, and interactive activities for kids of all ages. Wander through market stalls filled with unique finds, sample delicious multicultural cuisines and homemade treats, and try your luck in the ever-popular raffle with fantastic prizes up for grabs.
It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience the warm community spirit of Hornsby Girls High School and support local students. Whether you come for the entertainment, food, shopping, or simply the festive atmosphere, the Spring Fair promises something for everyone. All are welcome!
- When: Saturday 6 September
- Where: Hornsby Girls’ High School, Edgeworth David Avenue, Hornsby
- Event details
Berowra Woodchop Festival
Berowra Woodchop Festival
The Berowra Woodchop Festival is being held at Warrina Oval Saturday 6 September, 10am-4pm.
This year we are doubling down on world-class competitive wood-chopping action, live music all day, a diverse market area and rides for the kids.
This is the largest event in the area and remains free to enjoy. Be sure to put it in your calendar and bring the family for this great day out.
This event does not run without our sponsors. Thank you to Hornsby Council, Berowra Village Tavern, McGrath Real Estate, Lauren Guy Conveyancing, Bendigo Bank Berowra, Nobby Kitchens, Berlian Timbers and everyone else who has supported this event over the years.
All proceeds from this event will be reinvested directly into our local community.
- When: Saturday 6 September, 10am-4pm
- Where: Warrina Street Oval, Hillcrest Road, Berowra
- Events details
Moocooboola Festival
Moocooboola Festival is the premier community event in Hunters Hill, attracting up to 15,000 visitors to Boronia Park Ovals.
Featuring rides, entertainment, colourful roving stilt walkers, free photo magnets, displays, food stalls, a market bazaar, performances and a crowd-favourite dog show, Moocooboola Festival offers something for everyone.
With a nostalgic history dating back to its first staging at Hunters Hill Town Hall in 1980, the festival’s name derives from the traditional Wallumedegal term meaning “meeting of the waters,” referring to the area where the Parramatta and Lane Cove rivers converge in Sydney.
This year’s festival also introduces exciting new attractions, including the Kids’ Petting Zoo, offering fun pony rides and a farmyard experience, as well as a Health and Wellbeing Zone, providing complimentary health and blood pressure checks, body scans, fitness challenges, and more.
- When: Sunday 7 September, 10am-4pm
- Where: Boronia Park, Ryde Road, Hunters Hill
- Events details
Barker College Spring Fair
The Barker Spring Fair is back on Saturday 13 September, and it’s set to be bigger than ever. It includes all the stalls and activities you know and love, plus a “Battle of the Bands” and Fireworks Spectacular.
In 2025, we are celebrating 100 years of the Barker College Parents’ Association (BCPA). Proceeds raised will support the BCPA, enhance Barker facilities, and help families in the Barker Community.
We invite you and your families to join us at Barker for this fun event.
- When: Saturday 13 September, 1pm-7pm
- Where: Barker College, Pacific Highway, Hornsby
- Events details
Pymble Ladies’ College Garden Party
Get ready for Pymble Ladies’ College’s biggest event of the year! The Pymble Garden Party returns on Saturday 20 September, bringing together students, families, and the broader community for a fun-filled day of rides, food, live music, market stalls, demonstrations, competitions, and so much more.
This year’s Garden Party is set to be our biggest and best yet, with thousands expected to join in the festivities. Families can enjoy delicious food, entertainment for all ages, and a lively community atmosphere – all while supporting two incredible causes: Mahboba’s Promise and the HerVillage Foundation.
- When: Saturday 20 September, 10am-3pm
- Where: Pymble Ladies’ College, Avon Road, Pymble
- Events details
St Ives Food & Wine Festival
The St Ives Food & Wine Festival returns on Sunday 21 September 2025, transforming the St Ives Village Green into a lively celebration of multicultural flavours, fine wine, and community spirit. Now in its twelfth year, this much-loved event — organised by the Rotary Club of St Ives — offers a full day of delicious food, premium drinks, live entertainment, market stalls, and family fun from 10am to 4pm.
Festival-goers can savour cuisines from around the globe, including Indian curries, Italian pasta, Greek favourites, Chinese dumplings, fresh oysters, and a wide range of sweet treats and street food. Over 70 stalls will feature artisan produce alongside tastings from premium wineries, boutique distilleries, and local breweries, with the chance to meet the makers.
Live music and cultural performances will keep the atmosphere buzzing. At the same time, kids can enjoy rides, a petting zoo, pony rides, face painting, and free activities at the Rotary Family Fun Stall. The festival also features a variety of market stalls, a photo booth, and local favourites like OMG Decadent Donuts and Popi’s Souvla.
- When: Sunday 21 September, 10am-4pm
- Where: St Ives Village Green
- Events details
Spot On Children’s Festival Parramatta
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This spring school holidays, experience an unforgettable line-up of family-friendly performances, high-energy circus acts, and immersive artworks as Riverside Theatre’s annual Spot On Children’s Festival takes over Parramatta from 30 September to 9 October.
Featuring four jam-packed shows with six artists, this extraordinary celebration of imagination, creativity and curiosity brings together the best in local and national talent for a thrilling week of family fun.
- When: 30 September to 9 October
- Where: Riverside Theatres, Corner of Church and Market Street, Parramatta
- Event details
Spring Festivals: What’s On in October 2025
Brooklyn Spring Fair
Brooklyn Spring Fair
The Brooklyn Spring Fair & Markets returns this October, bringing a vibrant day of family fun, live entertainment, and community spirit to the beautiful Hawkesbury riverside.
From 10am to 4pm, Brooklyn Oval will come alive with a bustling marketplace featuring unique stalls, handmade crafts, fashion, homewares, plants, delicious food, and plenty of family-friendly activities. With rides, music, and local entertainment, there’s something for everyone to enjoy – whether you’re shopping for a special gift, tasting local flavours, or just soaking up the lively atmosphere.
- When: Sunday 19 October, 10am to 4pm
- Where: Brooklyn Oval
- Event details
Leura Gardens Festival
Celebrate the beauty of spring in the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains at the Leura Gardens Festival 2025. Running this October, the festival invites visitors to explore eight stunning cool-climate gardens, each showcasing the unique charm and vibrant colours of the season.
From dazzling rhododendrons, azaleas and tulips to the delicate blossoms of dogwoods, maples and ornamental cherries, the festival is a floral feast for the senses. Whether you’re a passionate gardener seeking inspiration or simply wish to enjoy a day surrounded by nature’s splendour, the Leura Gardens Festival promises something special for everyone.
Festival tickets are valid for the entire duration, allowing visitors to enjoy the gardens at their own pace. A convenient hop-on, hop-off bus service connects all festival gardens, Leura Station and Wentworth Falls.
All proceeds from the festival support the local hospital and community charities – making your visit both beautiful and meaningful.
- When: Friday 3 – Monday 6 October
- Where: Leura Gardens Accommodation, Fitzroy Street, Leura
- Event Details
Hills Food & Wine Festival
Hills Food & Wine Festival
Get ready for a weekend of flavour, fun, and community spirit at the Hills Food & Wine Festival on Saturday 11 & Sunday 12 October, 2025.
Set against the picturesque backdrop of Bella Vista Farm, this annual favourite is a feast for the senses – showcasing the very best local and regional food, wine, and entertainment.
What’s On
- Sample & Sip: Discover boutique wines, craft brews, artisan spirits, and gourmet bites from hand-picked producers.
- Live Entertainment: Enjoy live music, roving performers, and a vibrant festival atmosphere throughout the weekend.
- Cooking Demos: Head to the Norwest Marketown Demo Tent for free cheese & wine pairings, cocktail masterclasses, and chef-led demonstrations.
- Kids Zone: Thanks to Fit Kidz, little ones can enjoy free rides and activities all day.
Whether you’re a foodie, wine enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun day out with family and friends, the Hills Food & Wine Festival is not to be missed.
- When: Sunday 12 October
- Where: Bella Vista Farm, Norwest Blvd & Elizabeth MacArthur Drive, Bella Vista
- More info
Newcastle Festival of Sweets & Treats
Newcastle Festival of Sweets & Treats
Get ready for the ultimate indulgence at Newcastle’s sweetest event – the Festival of Sweets & Treats on Sunday 12 October! Perfect for families, foodies, and anyone with a sweet tooth, this festival promises a decadent escape filled with flavour, fun, and entertainment.
- When: Sunday 12 October, 9am-2pm
- Where: The Station, Watt Street, Newcastle
- Event details
Granny Smith Festival, Eastwood
The Granny Smith Festival is one of Sydney’s largest and most loved community events, and it’s on Saturday 18 October 2025.
This year’s milestone celebration will be bigger and better than ever, featuring:
- Amusement Rides & Kids’ Activities – endless fun for families.
- Market Stalls & Food Trucks – shop, taste, and explore local favourites.
- Live Performances & Youth Zone – showcasing incredible talent across the day.
- Grand Street Parade – with over 1,000 local participants bringing colour and excitement.
- Finale Show & Fireworks – a spectacular finish to an unforgettable day.
With more than 200 stallholders and 500 performing artists, the Granny Smith Festival is a true celebration of community, culture, and connection.
- When: Saturday 18 October, 9am-8.30pm
- Where: Eastwood
- Event details
Twilight Concert in the Park, Wahroonga
Celebrate spring with an evening of live music under the stars at Wahroonga Park with Spring Twilight Concert in the Park on Saturday 18 October 2025.
Line-up:
- Endless Summer – kicking off the night with classics from the 60s, 70s & 80s.
- Running in the Shadows – Australia’s longest-running tribute to Fleetwood Mac, performing timeless hits including Dreams, Little Lies, Rhiannon, and Go Your Own Way.
🍴 Bring a picnic rug and settle in, or grab dinner from the delicious food stalls on-site. Seating will be split into two areas: picnic rugs & low chairs at the front, high-back chairs at the back.
- When: Saturday 18 October, 5-8pm
- Where: Wahroonga Park, Wahroonga
- Event details
Uncorked Balmoral Wine and Food Festival
The Hunter Valley comes to the harbour for one unforgettable day! Savour the region’s finest award-winning wines, artisanal cheeses, handcrafted spirits, and gourmet foods, all set against the stunning backdrop of Balmoral Beach on Sunday, 19 October.
Taste & Enjoy:
- Crisp Chardonnays, bold Shiraz, refreshing Semillon & sparkling wines
- Locally crafted botanical gins & spirits
- Gourmet bites and artisan produce from top Hunter Valley producers
Relax by the beach with live music all day while indulging in world-class food and wine.
Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a foodie, or just looking for a perfect Sunday escape, Hunter Valley Uncorked Balmoral is an experience not to be missed!
- When: Sunday 19 October, 11am-5pm
- Where: Rotunda, Balmoral Beach
- Events details
Crows Nest Fest
Get ready for the return of one of Sydney’s favourite street festivals! On Sunday 19 October 2025, the streets and laneways of Crows Nest will come alive for the biggest Crows Nest Fest yet. This free community event is a joyful celebration of connection, culture, and creativity, welcoming families, friends, and neighbours to experience everything the vibrant village has to offer.
With more than 200 market stalls, the festival will showcase gourmet food, boutique wines, artisan fashion, jewellery, art, and sustainable goods. Wander the bustling streets and discover flavours from across the globe at the Gourmet Food Precinct and Food Truck Alley.
Kids will love the dedicated Kids Zone, featuring pony rides, a petting zoo, a circus playground, and face painting. Furry friends aren’t forgotten either, with the always-popular Canine Capers by Pet Medical, where local pups take centre stage.
- When: Sunday 19 October, 10am-5pm
- Where: Willoughby Road, Crows Nest
- Events details
Wahroonga Food & Wine Festival
Wahroonga Food & Wine Festival
The much-loved Wahroonga Food and Wine Festival is back for its 11th year, transforming the picturesque Wahroonga Park into a vibrant showcase of fine wine, gourmet food, and live entertainment on Sunday 26 October 2025, from 11am to 5pm. This free, family-friendly event has become a highlight of Sydney’s spring calendar, drawing foodies, wine lovers, and families from across the North Shore and beyond.
- When: Sunday 26 October, 11am to 5pm
- Where: Wahroonga Park
- Events details
Spring Festivals: What’s On in November 2025
Food & Wine by the River
Sydney’s lower north shore will sparkle on Sunday 2 November 2025, as the much-loved Lane Cove Food & Wine by the River returns to Burns Bay Reserve, Riverview.
This riverside festival is your chance to sip, taste, and toast the best of the Mudgee Wine Region, with more than 20 wineries, brewers, distillers, and gourmet producers showcasing their award-winning creations.
With live music, lawn games, and shady spots to picnic by the water, it’s the recipe for a perfect Sunday out.
- When: Saturday 2 November, 11am-5pm
- Where: Burns Bay Reserve, Kooyong Road, Riverview
- Event Details
Arcadian Artists Trail
Discover the Arcadian Artists Trail, an enchanting open-studio weekend nestled on Sydney’s rural-urban fringe. Happening on Saturday, 8 November, and Sunday, 9 November 2025, this free event invites you to explore five picturesque rural properties across Dural, Galston, and Arcadia, where over 35 local artisans—including painters, printmakers, glass and textile artists, jewellers, sculptors, and photographers—will showcase their craft.
This year’s trail promises even richer experiences—meet the artists in person, perhaps catch them in action, and immerse yourself in their inspirations amid tranquil bushland surroundings.
As you meander through the serene landscapes of Sydney’s northern fringe, enjoy scenic drives, stop by local cafés or food trucks, and cherish handmade artworks unique enough to become treasured gifts or keepsakes. All galleries are on acreage, so kids can run around and play while parents can enjoy the show!
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a curious local, or seeking a peaceful weekend adventure, the Arcadian Artists Trail offers a refreshing blend of creativity, culture, and countryside charm.
- When: Saturday 8 & Sunday 9 November
- Where: Arcadia
- Event Details
