Council to deliver Kurri Kurri Nostalgia Festival in 2026 and beyond

Published on 26 September 2025

Cessnock City Council is excited to announce it will manage and deliver Kurri Kurri Nostalgia Festival and continue to uphold its reputation as one of the region’s premier events, after long-time organiser Towns With Heart handed over the reins for 2026 and into the future.

The popular festival shines a spotlight on the beautiful town of Kurri Kurri and has become an unmissable fixture on the calendar over the past two decades.

Council is committed to running an event that continues to be professional, safe, and sustainable, and retains the festival’s identity in our community and further afield - while maximising benefits for local businesses and residents.

Work now begins to organise next year’s festival, with the celebration of retro culture set to take place on the last weekend of March in Kurri Kurri’s town centre. Council will engage with businesses and residents in Kurri Kurri to seek their feedback ahead of the 2026 festival.

Cessnock City Mayor Dan Watton said it was exciting for Council to take on management of the festival. 

"Council is looking forward to taking Kurri Kurri Nostalgia Festival to new heights and is committed to continue delivering an outstanding cultural celebration for those in this community and beyond," said Clr Watton.

"We sincerely thank Towns With Heart, its volunteers, and partners for making the festival the iconic celebration it is today. Their tireless work over many years in establishing and growing the festival has made a significant contribution to the cultural, economic and social fabric of Kurri Kurri and our wider local government area.

"I’m pleased that Council has been able to step in and ensure this proud legacy will continue into the future for years to come."

Keep an eye on Council’s website and social media channels for updates on Kurri Kurri Nostalgia Festival in the coming months.