Willoughby City Council's Emerge Festival returns this September, with a packed program of art, music, culture and community events, headlined by the Chatswood StreetFair, which will transform the CBD into a buzzing street party.
The festival runs from 1 September to 12 October 2025, with more than 50 events showcasing local creativity and global cultures. The highlight of the program is the Chatswood StreetFair on Saturday 6 September, when the Chatswood CBD will be transformed into a bustling hub of activity. With over 150 market stalls, five entertainment stages, family rides, live performances and a colourful community parade, it's the biggest day on the festival calendar.
This year, the parade starts at the new time of 2pm, with hundreds of community performers making their way from Chatswood Chase's entrance near Neridah Street, along Victoria Avenue, past The Concourse and finishing on Anderson Street and Charlotte Lane near Westfield Chatswood.
StreetFair highlights include:
• Circus activities from 10am at The Concourse Green Space
• Furry animals and reptile zoo from 10am at Spring Place
• Musical performances from 10am on five stages across the Chatswood CBD
• Free, family-friendly rides and activities throughout Anderson Street all day
This year's Emerge Festival also features an exciting program including the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra, Live at Lunch concert series, theatre productions, art experiences, the popular Matsuri Japan Festival and the Hongkongers' Street Market in Chatswood.
