Thousands of people flocked to Lake Macquarie on Saturday night to see the city’s first-ever triple fireworks display.

A kaleidoscope of pyrotechnic colour lit up Warners Bay, Belmont and Rathmines as part of the 2022 Lake Mac Festival.

While the fireworks were only let off from barges at the three separate locations the festival drew crowds to five live-sites as well as parks and other vantage points around the lake.

People at a few of the spots were lucky enough to see two of the displays at the same time.

The wonderful weather helped boost crowds in what was the city’s first major event since the most recent COVID lockdowns.

“It has been wonderful to see so many people back out enjoying the fresh air and free entertainment,” Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser said.

“It has been a long, hard slog for so many people, so to have a weekend like this – outdoors, in wide open spaces and with COVID-safe plans in place – is a welcome reprieve.”

Earlier on Saturday, hundreds of families enjoyed free food and coffee, kids’ games and live entertainment at a community breakfast at Thomas H Halton Park at Croudace Bay.

And on Sunday, local musicians belted out Aussie tunes for chilled out crowds at Speers Point Park, with gin, wine and beer bars and food trucks slaking thirst and sating hunger.

Lake Macquarie City Council manager arts, culture and tourism Jacqui Hemsley hopes the weekend signals the start of a year of memorable events across the region.

“We all know how much has had to be cancelled and postponed over the past two years, but fingers crossed we’ll have more luck in 2022,” she said.

“From superboats to the Living Smart Festival, there’s so much to look forward to.

“We’re aiming to host a real diversity of events, big and small, to engage the community, activate business and boost tourism to the region.”

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