Looking for something to do this weekend? One of these events could be perfect for you.
NOTE: Given the ever-evolving COVID-19 situation, please check the event’s website or social media pages for updates.
Botanical Bonanza Open Day
The team at the Hunter Region Botanic Gardens in Heatherbrae is excited to welcome visitors to this event on Saturday 5 February. A free day for all, it will include Orchid Tours, a Bonsai display, rock painting, a BBQ and more.
According to organisers there will be plenty of Insta-worthy photo opportunities.
Go to portstephens.org.au/events/show/botanical-bonanza-open-day for more info.
When: Saturday 5 February, 9am to 4pm
Where: Hunter Region Botanic Gardens
Cost: Free
Australian Boardriders Battle
Head down to Newcastle Beach on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 February for the National Final of the Hyundai Australian Boardriders Battle. It is Australia’s biggest grassroots event and involves 24 of the best boardrider clubs in the country.
When: Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 February
Where: Newcastle Beach
Escapes Day Tour
Go to the Maitland Gaol on Saturday for a tour that explores the various stories behind some of the documented escapes from the Gaol.
Your guide will escort you around the site, delving into the ways prisoners were treated through various eras of prison management and how the Gaol was developed through its 150 year operational history.
Learn about the ‘Magnificent Seven’ which was the successful escape in September 1977 and Patrick McNamara, who escaped in August 1851, only to be recaptured four months later and face the hangman’s noose in March 1852.
Bookings are essential, go to maitlandgaol.com.au for more info.
When: Saturday 6 February, 10am
Where: Maitland Gaol
Cost: Tickets start at $24
Speers Point Park Homegrown Market
More than 100 stalls will be at the Homegrown Markets at Speers Point Park on Sunday.
There will also be live music, street food, kids activities, coffee and more available.
When: Sunday 6 February, 10am to 2pm
Where: Speers Point Park
Resurgence
Presented by the National College of Dance, Resurgence is an uprising after an incredibly challenging period. The 1.5-hour performance on Saturday 5 February will showcase the resilience of the dancers.
Tickets start at $30, go to civictheatrenewcastle.com.au/what-s-on/all-shows/national-college-of-dance-resurgence to book.
When: Saturday 5 January
Where: Civic Theatre
Cost: Tickets start at $30
Maitland Community Markets
Hosted monthly at the Maitland Showground, the Maitland Community Markets have something for everyone. They include a wide range of stallholders, plus food and entertainment.
The next market will be hosted on Saturday 6 February from 9am to 2pm.
When: Sunday 6 February, 9am to 2pm
Where: Maitland Showground
Caravan Camping Lifestyle Expo
The much-anticipated Newcastle Caravan Camping Lifestyle Expo is returning this weekend.
Taking place at the Newcastle Entertainment Centre and Showground from Friday 4 February to Sunday 6 February, the event will provide an extensive display of products including the latest caravans, motorhomes, campervans, camper trailers, tents, camping equipment, 4WD accessories, holiday parks and more.
Head to caravanexpo.com to find out more or purchase tickets.
When: Friday 4, Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 February
Where: Newcastle Entertainment Centre Showground
Cost: $16 for adults, $12 for concession
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