Search
galston community news

Hawkesbury Fest 2026

Hawkesbury’s annual community celebration will return to Windsor this August, bringing together local organisations, businesses, emergency services, entertainment and friendly family activities.

Hawkesbury Fest will be held at Governor Phillip Park on Sunday, 9 August, from 10 am to 3 pm. The free event is held each year as part of Local Government Week and showcases community groups, local services and Council initiatives through a range of interactive displays and activities.

Mayor Les Sheather said the event highlights the people, organisations and services that contribute to life in the Hawkesbury.

“Hawkesbury Fest is a celebration of all things Hawkesbury – the community, the partnerships, the services and facilities that make this City such a great place to live,” Mayor Sheather said.

The festival will feature local markets, community stalls, emergency services displays, live music, food vendors, entertainment and children’s activities, including a giant slide.

New attractions planned for this year’s event include a sports zone featuring local netball, cricket, AFL, soccer and swimming clubs, as well as a community performance stage.

A parkour course is also set to make its debut. “Hawkesbury Fest is a fun and informative day out for the whole family, with markets, information stalls, an exciting new community sporting zone, entertainment, food, activities for all ages, and more!” the mayor said.

“Council is currently undertaking the single greatest works program in our history, and Hawkesbury Fest is an important opportunity for everyone to come, learn about what we are doing and ask questions of our expert staff.”

“Our community service and emergency services partners will also be there. Discover the important role they play in keeping you safe and supporting you in times of need.”

Approximately 10,000 people are expected to attend, making it one of the largest Local Government Week celebrations in the state. Local Government Week, led by Local Government NSW, will run from 3 August to 9 August and shine a spotlight on the services, projects and initiatives councils deliver in their communities.

Council has acknowledged the support of event sponsors, including The Kurmond Dentist and The Pitt Town Dentist as stage sponsors, TAFE NSW as bronze sponsor, River FM as media sponsor, and Mini Halo Donuts, Yummy in my Tummy Fun Foods and Tortatoes Twisted Potato’s as small business sponsors.

Access to Governor Phillip Park and the Boat Ramp will be unavailable from 5 am to 6 pm while Council uses the road for Hawkesbury Fest operations.

For more information and event updates, visit the Hawkesbury Fest webpage or follow Hawkesbury Events and Hawkesbury City Council on social media.