Singleton is preparing to glow once again with the return of its much-loved Firelight next month, lighting up the Civic Centre precinct.
One of Singleton Council’s flagship community events alongside Christmas on John Street and Twilight on Australia Day Eve, the extravaganza has been running for several years.
It has grown into a night of vibrant entertainment, family fun and heartfelt community connection.
For Singleton mayor Sue Moore, Firelight is more than an event, it’s a tradition with meaning.
“It’s a really great evening for our community” she told the Newcastle Weekly.
“Other than purchasing your food, all the entertainment is free.
“You can just have a fun and social night with your family and friends.”
This year’s festival – on Saturday 3 May from 6pm to 9.30pm – marks a return to the Civic Centre precinct, which Cr Moore says is about creating a weather-resilient and people-friendly set-up.
“In 2024, we had to close it down because of the rain – too much electrical equipment around in such wet conditions just wasn’t safe,” she explains.
“It was very disappointing, so we’re moving it back to Civic where we have the undercover space.”
She adds that the change is also about creating a more intimate layout.
“It’s a much more condensed area, instead of wandering up and down John Street looking for entertainment, you can just grab a seat and a blanket and watch from one place,” Cr Moore said.
“It’s an easier and more inclusive way to enjoy the night.”
Ice, Lights and Popcorn
A mix of old favourites and exciting new additions will make this year’s Firelight a true feast for the senses.
One standout feature is an ice-skating rink, which Cr Moore says is a first for the event.
“That’s new for this year and while I personally won’t be trying it out, it’s going to be amazing for the young ones!”
Complementing the frosty fun, the outdoor cinema will screen the animation classic Ice Age, complete with free popcorn, while roaming performers, live music, and glowing light installations promise to fill the precinct with colour and fun.
“You can’t have cinema without popcorn,” Cr Moore said.
“It’ll be quite a night.”
For the kids there’ll be craft activities, jumping castles, face painting, and even putt-putt golf, with all attractions included for free.
A variety of food trucks will offer hot meals, sweets, and snacks, while a licenced area will serve wine and beer from the Hunter region.
“Whatever your taste, hot and spicy or just a sausage and chips, there’ll be something for everyone,” Cr Moore says.
Supporting Local
While the move away from John Street does change things for some local businesses, Cr Moore said council was working hard to make sure they’re still involved.
“We’re inviting local businesses from John Street the chance to set up stalls at Civic Precinct free of charge to encourage their participation in the fun.”
This spirit of collaboration and accessibility lies at the heart of the Firelight mission.
“It’s not just a Singleton event for locals. Everyone’s welcome to come and enjoy our hospitality and we expect to see several visitors from around the region,” she said.
“It’s a great night to catch up with community and family, sit and chat with people you might not have seen in a while.”
As one of the three major community events Singleton Council puts on each year, Cr Moore says Firelight is part of a deliberate effort to meet the community’s requests for more local, inclusive, all-ages activities.
“Our community strategic plan this year had a lot of focus on supporting youth and families, so we’re really trying to address those comments with these events.”
Plan your Firelight experience
Whether you’re local or travelling in, why not make a weekend of it?
There’s so much to see and do in Singleton with an array of boutique accommodation to suit everyone from big families to couples and singles.
Relax and enjoy your weekend by visiting one of Singleton’s many cafes and pubs or get outdoors to enjoy the scenic parks and historical sites.
As Firelight is free to attend with all entertainment included, it’s bound to be a night to remember for the Singleton community.
Cr Moore says that families and guests are encouraged to bring blankets or chairs and arrive early to secure a good spot.
“It’s just a great night and I really look forward to it,” she added.
“The atmosphere, the people, the music.
“You get to sit under the stars, chat, laugh, and just enjoy a beautiful early winter’s night.
“What could be better than that?”
Singleton Firelight will start 6pm on Saturday 3 May at Singleton Civic Centre precinct, 12-14 Queen Street, Singleton. Visit the website for more information.
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