April and May are here to rescue your weekends. No more “what should we do?” convos that end in takeaway and laundry. This stretch of coastline transforms into a lively, culture-rich hub during autumn. Some places are calling, and they got community spirit, competition, and a few bagpipes waiting. Chasing thrills or keeping up with the kids at a riverside market—either way, this is your sign to stop scrolling and start planning.
A Coastal Autumn to Remember: Events NSW Comes Alive in 2025
April and May bring a refreshing shift on the Barrington Coast—cooler days, quieter beaches, and a lineup of events worth marking on the NSW calendar.
Mid-Autumn Festival – 5 April – The Farmer’s Wife Distillery, Allworth
- Celebrate the happy Mid-Autumn Festival with lanterns, craft gin, Asian street food, and community entertainment in a stunning garden setting.
- A culturally rich event that adds diversity to the events NSW calendar.
- Mooncake tastings and tea pairings offer a deeper connection to traditional celebrations.
- Lantern-making workshops and cultural storytelling sessions add hands-on, family-friendly activities.
The event is known for its intimate atmosphere and limited ticketing—pre-booking is highly recommended. - Local performers and artists bring an immersive, multicultural flair to the evening program.
TasteFest on the Manning – 5 April – Taree
- Showcasing local producers, wineries, breweries, and artisan food stalls.
- Enjoy live music, NSW performances and fresh flavours along the Manning River foreshore.
- A highlight on the NSW festivals map for food lovers.
- Live chef demonstrations showcase local ingredients and culinary techniques.
- A dedicated kids’ zone with games and shaded picnic areas creates a family-friendly vibe.
- Tasting cups and eco-friendly practices support the festival’s commitment to sustainability.
- Visitors can join guided tastings with regional winemakers and craft brewers throughout the day.
Bonnie Wingham Scottish Festival – 31 May – Wingham
- A vibrant NSW heritage celebration featuring Highland games, traditional dancing, pipe bands, and clan parades.
- An authentic cultural experience for those exploring festivals in New South Wales.
- Explore heritage displays and clan genealogy services at the festival’s cultural tents.
- Market stalls offer traditional Scottish goods, handmade crafts, and themed souvenirs.
- The day closes with a spirited ceilidh—a traditional social dance open to all attendees.
- Re-enactment groups and living history displays bring centuries-old traditions to life in the heart of Wingham.
Scenic Thrills and High-Speed Weekends
The NSW event calendar offers more than just food and culture—it brings a rush of adrenaline, too.
Easter Powerboat Classic – 18–21 April – Taree
- High-speed racing on the Manning River, this iconic easter NSW event draws motorsport enthusiasts from around the state.
- Family-friendly viewing zones and local food stalls make it more than just a race.
Rattletrap 2025 – 10 May – Crowdy Head Beach
- Vintage hot rods and motorcycles go full throttle on the sand in a nostalgic nod to early motorsport.
- One of the more unique entries in the New South Wales events lineup.
NSW Club Championships – 17 May – Forster
- A major triathlon NSW event featuring amateur and elite athletes.
- Combining community support with scenic coastal endurance challenges.
Community, Connection, and Family Days Out
Across the Barrington Coast, weekends in April and May offer simple joys and shared moments.
RiverFest – 13 April – Tea Gardens Riverfront
- Community celebration with market stalls, food trucks, river-based activities, and live music.
- Ideal for families looking for things to do in NSW that feel personal and accessible.
Mother’s Day Classic – 11 May – Taree
- A heartfelt Australian Mother’s Day charity event supporting breast cancer research.
- Participants can walk or run along scenic riverside paths, followed by refreshments and family fun.
Stroud Show – 25 April – Stroud Showgrounds
- A classic regional event filled with livestock judging, equestrian events, woodchopping, and more.
- Captures the spirit of NSW festivals rooted in community and country pride.
Nature and Nostalgia Between Events
For those who are catching a show or cheering at the finish line, the Barrington Coast makes it easy to slow down and reconnect with nature.
Myall Lakes National Park
- Explore bushwalking trails, picnic areas, birdwatching spots, and scenic lakefront drives.
- A quiet escape that ties naturally into the rhythm of festivals in NSW weekends.
Manning River Foreshore
- A great place to unwind between events with a barbecue, a fishing line, or a slow riverfront walk.
- Perfect for low-key downtime after a busy festival day.
Local Markets and Lookouts
- Browse artisan goods, fresh produce, and handmade wares in towns like Wingham and Pacific Palms.
- Add stops at coastal lookouts near Myall Lakes National Park for unforgettable views.
Plan Your Autumn Escape Around the Best of Events NSW
Autumn is a short season, but the Barrington Coast makes every weekend count. The April–May period is packed with festivals in New South Wales that blend regional character with accessible fun. Events in NSW on this part of the coast strike the perfect balance between scenic charm and lively community energy, offering something for every kind of traveller.
It’s an ideal time for families seeking quality time, couples planning a relaxed getaway, and event-goers chasing memorable experiences. With something new happening each weekend—be it food, music, sport, or culture—this season gives you every reason to explore more of what NSW does best.
Stay Close to the Action on the Barrington Coast
Choosing the right place to stay can shape your entire experience. Shores Lake & Beachside Villas offers a peaceful and convenient base, placing you within easy reach of all the events featured in this guide. Nestled between Wallis Lake and Elizabeth Beach, the location provides the perfect balance—close to the action, yet quiet enough to truly unwind after a full day out.
The location offers quick access to key event venues in Taree, Forster, Wingham, and Allworth—all within a short drive. With spacious villas, pet-friendly options, and thoughtful guest facilities, we make it easy to settle in, stretch out, and enjoy every moment of your seasonal escape.
Image Credits: RV Trips