SAVE THE DATE: Coastal Twist Festival Returns with “Radical Radiance” Theme for 2026
The Central Coast’s most colourful celebration is back, with Coastal Twist Festival officially announcing its 2026 dates and theme as excitement builds for eight unforgettable days of arts, culture, creativity and connection across the region from Sunday 27 September to Sunday 4 October 2026.
Now entering its sixth year, Coastal Twist has grown from a bold community vision into one of the Central Coast’s most loved cultural events. Bringing together artists, performers, community organisations, businesses, volunteers and audiences of all ages, the festival celebrates diversity, inclusion and belonging while showcasing the region’s vibrant creative spirit.
This year’s theme, Radical Radiance, is a call to shine brighter together and create the future we want to see, one grounded in compassion, courage and collective unity. The full festival program and performer lineup will be announced in the coming weeks.
Spanning eight days and nights across Woy Woy, Ettalong Beach, Umina Beach and Gosford, Coastal Twist will present a dynamic mix of free and ticketed events including theatre, cabaret, live music, dance, film, visual arts, youth programs, seniors events and community celebrations, culminating in the much-loved Coastie Carnie Fair Day.
More than a festival, Coastal Twist has become a powerful platform for connection, visibility and community wellbeing. While proudly centred on LGBTIQA+ inclusion, it creates welcoming spaces where people from all walks of life can come together, celebrate diversity and strengthen community connections.
Festival Director Glitta Supernova said the festival’s message has never been more important. “In a time when fear and division can feel loud, we choose to radiate love, hope, kindness and connection instead. Radical Radiance is about being fully yourself while embracing others for doing the same. Together we create communities grounded in care, belonging and freedom, and a future built on compassion, courage and collective unity.”
The festival’s impact extends well beyond entertainment, generating opportunities for community participation, education, cultural expression, local business engagement and regional tourism. Coastal Twist attracts visitors from across Australia each year, delivering significant benefits for accommodation providers, hospitality venues, retailers and tourism operators while showcasing the Central Coast on a national stage.
“Coastal Twist celebrates the diversity that makes the Central Coast such a vibrant, creative and welcoming place to live. The festival isn’t just for LGBTIQA+ communities. It’s about creating a region where people feel valued, connected and included. When that happens, everyone benefits.” said Supernova.
Community participation remains at the heart of the festival, with opportunities to volunteer, perform, exhibit artwork, host a Fair Day stall, enter the Puparazzi Pooch Parade, become a sponsor or support events as a business or venue partner. Whether you’re an artist, volunteer, business owner, supporter or first-time visitor, there’s a place for everyone at Coastal Twist.
For festival updates, participation opportunities and sponsorship information, visit www.coastaltwist.org.au.