This October long weekend, the Central Coast comes alive with the dazzling energy of the Coastal Twist Festival – a six-day celebration of LGBTIQA+ arts, culture, and community.
From Tuesday 30 September to Sunday 5 October, visitors from across Australia are invited to explore contemporary and original performances, interactive workshops, 18+ and family-friendly events, all set against the Central Coast’s stunning beaches, waterways, and hinterlands – just an hour north of Sydney.
Now in its seventh year, Coastal Twist has become a major cultural highlight for the region, showcasing spectacular artistry while fostering inclusion, visibility, and meaningful connections across diverse communities.
This year’s theme, Strength in Unity, reflects the festival’s commitment to celebrating difference while bringing people together – a philosophy that makes every event, from cabaret to workshops, both meaningful and unforgettable.
“Coastal Twist is about bringing people together through creativity, joy, and pride,” says Creative Director Glitta Supernova. “From cabaret to carnivals, every event is designed to celebrate human diversity while making the Central Coast feel like home for everyone.”
This year, resilience has been key. Local Gov shifting goalposts, drawn-out processes, and excessive compliance demands have drained valuable time and resources, forcing volunteers to fight for the festival’s very existence rather than focus on delivering an awesome experience.
“It’s been a lesson in how excessive compliance can, intentionally or not, act as a form of gatekeeping – silencing community-led innovation and celebration by making it too hard to succeed. These challenges have tested us like never before, its also made clear why Strength in Unity is more than a theme,” said Glitta Supernova.
“Globally and locally, this year is not just a celebration, it’s a testament to resilience and community unity — and we need our city neighbours more than ever to stand with us, join us, and celebrate together.”
Across 15 events, the festival features an extraordinary line-up of multigenerational LGBTIQA+ artists spanning burlesque, sideshow, drag, DJs, live music, circus, performance art, and dance, including Sexy Galexy, Frock Hudson (Melbourne), Rhys Lightning, Tyra Bankstown, Missy & J, Fetu Taku, Nancy Denis, Greg Gould (Melbourne), DJ Seymour Butts, and many more national and local talents.
Festival highlights include Friday 3 October’s crown jewel, The Love Club Cabaret – a kaleidoscopic night of theatre, music, and queer brilliance. On Saturday 4 October, the inaugural Drag Brunch – Burgers, Bubbles & Bold Queens sets the stage, followed by the legendary Bauhaus of Euphoria dance party.
The festival culminates on Sunday 5 October with the beloved Coastie Carnie Fair Day at Umina Beach – a free, all-ages celebration of performance, community, live music, food, and family fun, featuring the Kids Disco with Sexy Galexy and the always-popular Puparazzi Pooch Parade.
Beyond entertainment, Coastal Twist is about visibility, access, and belonging. The festival provides wheelchair-friendly spaces, sensory-friendly activities, intergenerational programming, and a safe place for everyone to celebrate proudly.
With something for everyone – from youth parties, art exhibitions, and creative workshops to 55+ Trivia and immersive arts experiences – Coastal Twist Festival blends regional charm with global artistry in one unforgettable week.
So book your weekender, pack your sequined bikini, and head to the Central Coast this October long weekend.
The Coastal Twist Festival runs from Tuesday 30 September to Sunday 5 October 2025. For more information and full program, visit: www.coastaltwist.org.au for details.
Images: Coastie Carnie Fair Day – photo by Lisa Haymes Photography | Frock Hudson (supplied)