Looking for something to do this Australia Day holiday? Here’s our guide to some fun, family-friendly events.
All events on 26 January unless otherwise stated.
Celebrate Australia food truck party
20 January, 4pm to 9pm Lionel Watts Reserve, Frenchs Forest
Save your appetite for some delicious treats in the lead up to Australia Day and head to the Food Truck Party at Lionel Watts Reserve. Indulge in a foodie’s paradise as you peruse the various international dishes on offer from a variety of food trucks. Bring your picnic rug and enjoy dinner to the tunes of live music and entertainment.
Music in Manly
10am to 2pm | Manly Corso
There will be plenty of family entertainment on the Manly Corso this Australia Day with local six-piece band Kotahi Groove taking to the streets with their smooth tunes. High energy saxophone and percussion band Sax Summit will bring their interactive show to the public. Street-based theatre artists Icarus Productions will also bring a splash of colour to the Manly celebrations.
There will also be performers at Dee Why Beach and Collaroy Beach from 10am to 2pm.
Warringah pool party
9am to 12pm Warringah Aquatic Centre, Frenchs Forest
Cool off and enjoy all that Warringah Aquatic Centre has to offer by joining in their pool party this Australia Day. There will be free entry for everyone from 9am to 12pm and the inflatables will be out in the water.
Diving boards will open on the indoor pools and for those looking to chill in the sun, you’ll find a DJ playing tunes near the outdoor pool.
A roving temporary-tattoo artist will also be at the centre. Pick up a swimwear bargain from 9am to 12pm with a special sale, with 25 per cent off at the shop.
Manly Pool Party
9am–12pm | Free Manly Aquatic Centre
Make a splash of your long weekend at The Andrew ‘Boy’ Charlton Swim Centre. The family-friendly event will feature colourful inflatables in the pool and will serve as a great place to join in the community spirit and celebrations. There will also be face-painting and a DJ on site to get the party started!
Thong throwing competition
From 2pm | Forestville RSL
Ready, set, throw! Grab a thong and join in the action at the Forestville RSL thong throwing competition this Australia Day. The kids’ competition starts at 4pm, followed by the adults contest at 5pm, with prizes to be won. There will be an afternoon session of live music from 2pm to 5.30pm, followed by an evening music set kicking off at 6.30pm. Enter the meat raffle and enjoy the beverage and food promotions which will run throughout the day.
Visit the Northern Beaches Council website for up-to-date information on council events.
By Tamara Spray