Sun. Sand. Soul. And saxophones? That’s Cabarita Beach in 2025, where lazy beach days seamlessly blend with festival excitement. One moment you’re sipping wine with your toes in the sand, the next you’re cheering on triathletes or swaying to blues under a starlit sky. With a packed calendar of Northern NSW events, you’ll wonder why every beach getaway doesn’t come with its festival lineup.
Why 2025 Is the Perfect Time for NSW Events
The Northern Rivers region is buzzing with energy this year. Here’s why 2025 stands out:
- Fresh experiences are everywhere. New festivals, enhanced lineups, and community celebrations make this season truly special.
- The weather is spot-on. Autumn on the NSW North Coast brings warm, sunny days and cool evenings, perfect for outdoor concerts, markets, and performances.
- Something for everyone. This year’s NSW events cater to every taste, from world-class music festivals to grassroots arts and surf culture.
- A peaceful alternative. While Byron Bay draws crowds, Cabarita Beach offers tranquility with easy access to all the major events.
- Local culture up close. These festivals showcase Northern NSW’s creative heart and community spirit.
- Flexible timing. With events spread across several months, you can plan your visit around your favorite experiences.
Music & Culture: Unmissable Festivals in NSW
A short drive inland or along the coast leads to some of the most exciting cultural festivals in the state. Several key NSW events will highlight music, art, and community this autumn.
Byron Bay Bluesfest | 17–20 April | Byron Bay
This iconic Byron Bay music festival continues to draw music lovers from across the country. Five days of blues, roots, folk, and rock on multiple stages, plus markets and food stalls. As one of the top festivals in New South Wales, it’s an essential addition to your travel plans.
Event Highlights:
- This four-day music festival has a diverse lineup featuring international and local artists, including Crowded House, TOTO, Gary Clark Jr., Chaka Khan, and Missy Higgins, among others.
The Kinship Festival | May 2025 | Murwillumbah
This celebration of Indigenous culture and community spirit offers live performances, storytelling, workshops, and a welcoming family atmosphere. Connecting with the region’s First Nations heritage is a meaningful way.
Event Highlights:
- Cultural workshops, including weaving, language sessions, storytelling, and traditional games
- Nature crafts and creative activities for children
- Interactive sand art installation celebrating community and connection
- Aboriginal artisan market showcasing local art, jewellery, and cultural items
- Free community lunch promoting unity and shared experience
Murwillumbah Arts Trail | May 2025 | Murwillumbah
Take a self-guided journey through the town’s creative spaces showcasing local talent. The art gallery Murwillumbah joins in with special exhibitions during the festival. With studios, pop-ups, and public installations, it’s a true celebration of regional creativity.
Event Highlights:
- Features visual arts, sculpture, photography, ceramics, performance art, and more.
- Offers both traditional and contemporary art experiences.
- Visitors can follow a walking map through the town’s art hubs and studios, meet artists, and explore behind them.
- The event strengthens community connections and celebrates the artistic identity of the Tweed region.
Sport & Challenge: Athletic NSW Events Worth Watching
Active travelers and spectators will find plenty of adrenaline-pumping action this season. From endurance races to water competitions, the North Coast is an exciting destination for sports enthusiasts.
Byron Triathlon | 27 April 2025 | Byron Bay
Set against the stunning Byron Bay coastline, the Byron Triathlon is a highlight of the NSW calendar. Swimmers, cyclists, and runners tackle the scenic course while supporters line the streets, cheering them on. It’s pure outdoor energy during your beach holiday.
Cabarita Beach Surf Life Saving Club Nippers Carnivals | Multiple Dates | Cabarita Beach & Cudgen Headland SLSC
Local nipper carnivals are a lively showcase of surf lifesaving culture along the Tweed Coast. The Cabarita Beach SLSC hosts Junior Aquatic Carnivals (JAC) and Branch Titles, bringing together young surf lifesavers for fun, competition, and community spirit.
These events highlight essential surf safety skills while celebrating the region’s deep connection to the ocean.
Coastal Vibes: Retro, Surf, & Soulful Celebrations
Alongside the headliners, some laid-back, unique events in NSW will add color to your trip. These coastal gatherings celebrate the region’s deep connection to surf culture and nostalgic charm.
Cooly Rocks On | 4-8 June 2025 | Coolangatta
Retro style comes alive in Coolangatta with classic car shows, pin-up contests, and rock ‘n’ roll dancing. Among the top NSW attractions this June, it’s a crowd-pleaser with vintage soul. Grab your dancing shoes and prepare for a healthy dose of 50s flair.
Sea’s The Day Women’s Surf Festival | June 2025 | Kingscliff
This festival blends surf, community, and empowerment, bringing together athletes, artists, and ocean lovers. The all-female event features surf competitions, wellness workshops, and local artisan stalls. It’s gaining recognition across the festivals in the NSW circuit for its inclusive, uplifting atmosphere.
Travel Tips & Local Info to Maximize the Fun
Cabarita Beach is centrally located among these festivals, so you can easily hop between coastal towns and hinterland villages throughout the season.
Transport Guide:
- Byron Bay: About 35 minutes
- Murwillumbah: About 30 minutes
- Kingscliff: About 15 minutes
- Coolangatta: About 35 minutes
Having a car gives you the most flexibility, but rideshare services and shuttle buses run for major event days.
Weather in Autumn:
- Days typically range between 22–26°C
- Evenings cool down to 15–18°C
- Expect mostly sunny days with occasional showers
What to Pack:
- Light clothes for warm days
- A jacket for evenings or rain
- Comfortable walking shoes for festivals and exploring
- Reusable water bottle, hat, and sunscreen
Make Your Autumn Unforgettable in Northern NSW
A festival-filled getaway is the perfect way to experience Northern NSW at its best. You might watch athletes race by, grooving to blues under the stars, or wandering through artist-lined streets in the hinterland. These NSW events create connections, spark discoveries, and deepen your appreciation for this unique region.
Stay Close to the Action with Beachfront Comfort
After a day filled with new sights, sounds, and experiences, returning to a peaceful haven makes all the difference. The Beach Cabarita offers spacious, self-contained apartments with private balconies and direct beach access—so you can unwind comfortably.
With visitors flocking to the region for festival season, booking early is your best bet to secure your serenity between all the excitement.
Image Credit: Tweed Shire Council