Celebrate a week of culture and creativity at Maitland Riverlights

Maitland Riverlights returns this October with a vibrant program of workshops, performances, food experiences and family activities celebrating culture in all its forms.

Running from Tuesday 7 October to Friday 10 October, the week-long program will lead into the main festival on Saturday 11 October from 2pm to 9pm at The Levee Central Maitland, with the spectacular Riverlights finale lighting up the Hunter River from 8pm.

The lead-up program offers something for all ages, with highlights including lantern-making workshops at Maitland Regional Art Gallery, drumming sessions, Capoeira and spin poi classes, a pasta-making workshop for children and family-friendly film screenings. Lanterns created during the week will later feature in the flotilla finale, illuminating the Hunter River in a community display.

Maitland City Council’s Coordinator City Events and Activations Adam Franks says Riverlights is an event that showcases Maitland’s cultural vibrancy.

“Maitland Riverlights is all about connection. It brings people together through language, music, food and culture, with storytelling at its heart.

“The festival is a chance for our community to celebrate diversity and for visitors to experience the many cultures that make Maitland a connected city with thriving communities.”

On Saturday 11 October, The Levee will be transformed into a Global Village, with more than 50 cultures represented. Visitors can enjoy performances on the World Stage, explore the Language Lounge, dance at the Groove Fusion Stage and sample global cuisines at the much-loved Global Kitchen.

The Global Kitchen, hosted by Slow Food Hunter Valley, will showcase expert chefs sharing their culinary traditions, including a special appearance from MasterChef Australia’s Depinder Chhibber.

“Food is one of the most universal ways to share culture,” Mr Franks said.

This year we’re delighted to welcome Depinder Chhibber, who will bring her expertise and passion to the Global Kitchen and inspire families to try something new.”

The festival will culminate with the Riverlights Finale on the riverbank from 8pm, featuring a community parade, illuminated lantern flotilla, giant glowing puppets and spectacular music, dance and light displays.

Headlining the finale is Kinder, the Ghanaian–Australian electronic duo from Maitland, whose Afro-electronic house rhythms promise an unforgettable close to the celebrations.

“The Riverlights finale is a highlight for our city. From lanterns on the Hunter River and our community parade, it brings together everything Riverlights represents: connection and celebration,” Mr Franks said.

Riverlights 2025 is proudly funded by the NSW Government in partnership with Maitland City Council, with The Mutual Bank as the presenting partner.

To book in for free activities across the week of Riverlights and to see the full program, visit www.maitlandriverlights.com.au