Like cake and doing good deeds? Immune Deficiencies Foundation Australia has an event that ticks both boxes. Photo: IDFA.
There’s something that hits every note this week in the Illawarra.
Horizontal Festival invites you to sip, savour and immerse yourself in a multisensory playground of world-class wine, craft beer, art and music. Families can wander Bundanon’s riverside artists and makers market, discovering unique crafts, meeting creators and soaking in live music under sunny skies. Or you can unleash your creativity in a number of hands-on workshops — from digital illustration in Gerringong to cosmic mixed-media adventures for budding space explorers at Wollongong Art Gallery.
Race fans can toast Oktoberfest with German beer, gourmet bites and live racing thrills at Kembla Grange, while dance enthusiasts stomp and clap through the South Coast Hoedown at Wollongong Town Hall. Sunday brings nostalgia and furry fun with Babe’s Country Fair in Robertson, while kids can swap preloved toys at Corrimal Library, giving old treasures new life. Midweek, connect with nature and culture at the Native Garden and Bush Medicine Talk, supercharge your professional network at ITeC Academy’s Speed Networking, or enjoy a family-friendly movie under the stars with the Minecraft Movie at The Waterfront.
And that’s just scratching the surface — thrill-seekers, foodies, creators, and curious minds alike will find something to spark joy, fuel curiosity, or simply make them smile. Here are 15 things to do in the Illawarra this week.
Multiple Days
Fun has zipped its way into Wollongong Central. Image: Supplied.
Sonic the Hedgehog @ Wollongong Central
When: Until 5 October, 11 am to 2 pm daily
Where: Wollongong Central, 200 Crown Street, Wollongong
Cost: Free entry.
These school holidays the fun is super-charged at Wollongong Central as Sonic the Hedgehog races into town with two adventure zones, daily giveaways and the chance to meet the blue blur himself. On Level One outside David Jones, the Immersive Zone will keep kids busy with skee-ball, bowling, reflex testing games and creative craft stations, while the Sonic Gaming Tower outside Priceline lets players battle it out on the classic Sonic video games.
Sonic will be making special appearances on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday for meet and greets, and there are daily prizes to be won along with a major prize draw for a Sonic prize pack including a Nintendo Switch 2 and themed merchandise.
Proudly supported by the NSW Government through Destination NSW, the Horizontal Festival is an immersive journey of taste, sound and culture, designed to be savoured slowly and remembered long after the last glass is poured. Photo: Horizontal Festival.
Horizontal Festival
When: Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 October, noon to 4 pm and 5:30 to 9:30 pm
Where: Centennial Vineyards, 252 Centennial Road, Bowral
Cost: $59 | Book via Ticketmaster.
This event is part concert, part degustation, part art show and part tasting journey, offering a full sensory escape over two days. Showcasing the best of NSW regional produce alongside world-class wine, craft beer and spirits, the festival blends art, design, music and culture in a curated celebration of flavour and creativity.
Each day features two four-hour sessions, letting guests choose a lively daytime experience or an enchanting evening atmosphere. Entry includes live music, art installations, complimentary wine and cheese tastings, a festival glass to take home and the chance to meet local makers. Visitors can explore themed zones — sip sparkling wine with oysters in the Sparkling Bar, enjoy Italian-inspired antipasto in The Vineyard, join masterclasses in The Rosé Room, sample reds and sweets in the Barrel Room, or step outside to the Hops Garden and Orchard for craft brews, food trucks and the concert stage. Guests can purchase culinary delights from oysters to gourmet meals and regional produce, or relax on the lawn with a cocktail while enjoying live performances.
Saturday
Celebrate the beauty of original craftsmanship. Photo: Bundanon.
Bundanon Artists & Makers Market
When: Saturday 4 October, 9 am to 3 pm
Where: Bundanon, 170 Riversdale Road, Illaroo
Cost: Free entry| Book via Bundanon.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Shoalhaven River, BAMM is a vibrant day out showcasing a thoughtful mix of First Nations artists, contemporary makers and small-batch creators. Wander through stalls brimming with ceramics, textiles, jewellery, weaving, gourmet pantry goods and one-of-a-kind artworks, each crafted with care and creativity.
More than a market, BAMM invites you to embrace the warm spring days with live music, good vibes, and a welcoming community atmosphere. Meet the makers behind the work, hear their stories and connect with the inspiration behind each piece. Whether you’re shopping for unique gifts, adding to your own collection, or simply soaking in the sights and sounds of this riverside celebration, BAMM promises an unforgettable experience for all ages.
This program is proudly funded by Kiama Council’s Cultural Development team, supporting creativity and the arts in the local community. Photo: Gerringong Library.
Digital Illustration with Daniela Franza
When: Saturday 4 October, 10:30 am to 12:30 pm
Where: Gerringong Library, 8 Blackwood Street, Gerringong
Cost: $30 | Book via Trybooking.
Step into the world of digital art in this beginner-friendly workshop with illustrator and museum professional Daniela Franza. Using the Procreate app on iPad, Daniela will guide participants through the essentials of digital drawing — exploring brush tools, layers, and core techniques — before helping you create your own simple finished artwork.
Perfect for adults and teens 15+, this hands-on session is a great way to discover how to bring your ideas to life with digital illustration. Bring your own fully-charged iPad with Procreate installed (about $20 on the App Store), a stylus such as an Apple Pencil and a charger.
Experience the thrill of the races alongside festive Oktoberfest fun in one of NSW’s premier race day destinations. Photo: Kembla Grange.
Oktoberfest Race Day
When: Saturday 4 October, 11 am
Where: Kembla Grange Racecourse, Princes Highway, Kembla Grange
Cost: From $10 | Book via Moshtix.
Get ready to celebrate Oktoberfest at Kembla Grange Racecourse with live horse racing, traditional German beer, delicious food and lively entertainment from the Phat Brass Oompah Band. Racegoers can enjoy the action from the public lawn or grandstand, indulge in premium dining with stunning views of the track in the Ken Brown Dining Room, or relax in the casual Grandstand Bistro or Lawn Marquee while sampling bistro classics, seasonal dishes and grazing platters. Children are welcome in designated areas, and a range of ticket options ensures there’s something for everyone.
This is Wollongong’s South Coast Hoedown — a glitter-booted, cowboy-hatted mash-up of music, dance and performance. One night only. Don’t miss it. Photo: Saddle Club/Cester.
South Coast Hoedown featuring Saddle Club
When: Saturday 4 October, 7:30 to 11 pm
Where: Wollongong Town Hall, corner Crown and Kembla streets, Wollongong
Cost: Online $30 | At the door $35 | Book via Ticketsearch.
Pull on your boots and get ready for a night of country-style fun as Marrickville’s beloved Saddle Club ride into town for one night only. Known for their infectious energy and easy-to-follow line dance sessions, the crew will have you stomping, clapping and laughing your way through classic heel-toe favourites and new moves.
No experience is needed — in fact, the less you’ve danced before, the more fun you’ll have. In just 5-6-7-8, you’ll be stepping in time with the crowd.
Between sets, the party keeps rolling with a stacked line-up of local talent. Expect DJ Cherry Rotten spinning country-disco bangers and unforgettable drag performances from Fancy and Sinn Vicious that will take this hoedown from honky-tonk to high camp.
Sunday
Here’s lookin’ at you, Babe. Image: Robertson Discover More.
Babe’s Country Fair
When: Sunday 5 October, 9:30 am to 3:30 pm
Where: Robertson School of Arts, Hoddle Street, Robertson
Cost: Free entry.
The Southern Highlands village of Robertson comes alive with country nostalgia and celebrations, marking the 30th anniversary of the beloved Babe movie. The festivities include an old-fashioned country fair featuring stalls of local produce and crafts, a petting zoo where children can meet farm animals, a Babe-inspired photo booth, face painting and plenty more family-friendly fun. 2025 also marks 30 years since the Cockatoo Run made its first journey to Robertson, and East Coast Heritage Railway is celebrating with giveaways of family passes for the historic train ride. Passengers can enjoy scenic travel while connecting with the charm and history of the region.
The October celebrations coincide with peak season for NSW’s state flower, the Waratah, first discovered in Robertson. Visitors can admire blooming Waratah gardens, and purchase cut flowers or potted plants, adding a floral touch to the festivities.
Tuesday
Get the kiddos some new toys while doing your part for a circular economy. Photo: yavdat.
Toy Swap
When: Tuesday 7 October, 10 am to noon
Where: Corrimal Library, 15 Short Street, Corrimal
Cost: Free.
Every year, 27 million toys end up in landfill across Australia — but Corrimal Library’s Toy Swap is here to change that. Families are invited to bring along preloved toys, games and books in good condition and exchange them for new-to-you treasures, all while supporting a more sustainable community.
It’s a chance to give quality items a second life, meet others who share a passion for reusing and reducing waste and show kids the joy of sustainable play. Please bring no more than a bag of clean, gently used items you’d be happy to pass on to a friend. Battery-operated toys aren’t accepted, and unsuitable items may need to be taken home.
This workshop is perfect for little artists ready to embark on an out-of-this-world adventure. Image: Wollongong Art Gallery.
Cosmic Creators (Mixed Media) Workshop
When: Tuesday 7 October, 1 to 2 pm
Where: Wollongong Art Gallery, 46 Burelli Street, Wollongong
Cost: $24.49 | Book via eventbrite.
Blast off into a universe of creativity with artist and educator Skye Zaracostas! In this hands-on workshop, young space explorers will learn exciting painting and drawing techniques to craft their very own mixed media masterpiece of the solar system. From swirling, colourful planets to twinkling stars and mysterious comets, kids will get to explore the wonders of outer space while expressing their imagination through art.
This workshop encourages curiosity, creativity, and confidence, giving children a chance to experiment with different materials and techniques in a fun, supportive environment. Each participant will take home a unique artwork to proudly display.
Wednesday
Events like these are one of the many reasons to have a library card. Don’t have one yet? It’s free and easy to join online. Photo: Wollongong City Council.
Native Garden and Bush Medicine Talk
When: Wednesday 8 October, 10 to 11 am (Auslan interpreted) and 11:30 am to 12:30 pm
Where: Wollongong Library, 41 Burelli Street, Wollongong
Cost: Free | Book via eventbrite.
Open your heart and connect with Country in this special session with Jesse, exploring the living kin of our native plants. Through story and conversation, discover their personalities, healing qualities, and the ways they care for our bodies, spirits and the land. This free event offers a chance to deepen your connection to culture, people and place.
Whether you’re a small business owner, entrepreneur, or part of a larger organisation, this is your chance to boost your network, exchange ideas, and walk away with new business opportunities. Image: ITeC Academy.
Speed Networking
When: Wednesday 8 October, 5:30 to 7:30 pm
Where: ITeC Academy, 1-5 Miller Street, Coniston
Cost: Free | Book via Humanitix.
ITeC Academy hosts an evening of Business Speed Networking designed to grow connections quickly and effectively. Attendees can meet a wide range of local businesses, build relationships that may lead to partnerships, referrals and new opportunities and refine their business pitches in a supportive and engaging environment.
Guests are encouraged to bring colleagues and plenty of business cards while connecting with like-minded professionals eager to collaborate, share ideas, and increase their visibility in the local business community.
This free, family-friendly event is the perfect school holiday outing — a blockbuster night of action, adventure and community fun at The Waterfront. Photo: Warner Bros Studio.
Outdoor Cinema:Minecraft Movie
When: Wednesday 8 October, 7:30 pm
Where: The Waterfront Shell Cove, Shops 1 and 2, 100 Cove Boulevard, Shell Cove
Cost: Free.
Pack your picnic rug and gather the family for a pixel-powered movie night under the stars. The new Minecraft Movie brings the world’s most loved game to the big screen in an epic adventure where unlikely heroes must band together to save the Overworld from a fearsome Ender Dragon.
Bring your own snacks, low chairs or picnic rugs and don’t forget a warm layer for when the evening cools. Prefer to travel light? Local eateries will be open, serving up dinner and sweet treats before showtime.
Thursday
In recognition of International Plasma Awareness Week, the Immune Deficiencies Foundation Australia (IDFA) is partnering with Lifeblood Australia to host a “Plasma Party” at Wollongong’s donor centre. Photo: IDFA.
Plasma Party
When: Thursday 9 October, 10 am to noon
Where: Lifeblood Wollongong, 1/45-53 Kembla Street, Wollongong
Cost: Free.
Immune Deficiencies Foundation Australia’s “Plasma Parties” bring the community together to highlight the vital role plasma donations play in supporting Australians living with primary immunodeficiencies and other severe medical conditions.
This event welcomes donors and supporters who wish to join the community, enjoy coffee and cake and connect with IDFA members while learning more about the importance of plasma in treating more than 50 serious medical conditions. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet recipients, hear firsthand the impact of their donations and learn how plasma-derived medications, such as immunoglobulin, sustain the health and quality of life for thousands of people nationwide. Participants are encouraged to wear yellow to represent the colour of plasma and celebrate the life-saving contributions of donors.
Get ready to roll in Gerringong. Image: Kiama Library.
Spool Racers
When: Thursday 9 October, 10 to 11 am
Where: Gerringong Library, 8 Blackwood Street, Gerringong
Cost: $5 | Book via Trybooking.
Rev up your creativity at Gerringong Library’s Spool Racers workshop. Using everyday odds and ends, kids will build and decorate their very own wind-up racer before putting it to the test on the track to see whose creation is the fastest.
This hands-on activity is perfect for curious minds and budding engineers, combining craft, creativity and a dash of friendly competition. All materials are provided.
This one-night-only performance at IPAC promises an unforgettable evening of music, energy and nostalgia. Photo: Jamois.
The 60 Four — Hits of the 60s and 70s
When: Thursday 9 October, 7:30 pm
Where: IMB Theatre, IPAC, 32 Burelli Street, Wollongong
Cost: Adult $79.95 | Concession (Pensioner/Senior) $69.95 | Book via Ticketsearch.
Wollongong audiences are in for an electrifying night of nostalgia as Australia’s acclaimed retro vocal group, The 60 Four, returns to the region to celebrate 10 years of sell-out tours, standing ovations and international acclaim. The group has graced theatre stages, festival line-ups, luxury cruise ships and live TV, recently performing alongside Guy Sebastian and Human Nature on Channel 7’s Telethon.
Their new tour features more than 30 iconic hits from legends including The Bee Gees, Frankie Valli, Elvis Presley, The Monkees, and Tom Jones, all delivered with The 60 Four’s signature four-part harmonies, slick choreography, and a sizzling seven-piece live band complete with horns.
