Old Bar Beach Festival is an iconic beachside celebration across the October long weekend. It's part car show, part music festival and all coastal community spirit.
Unique to the festival is the largest gathering of VW Kombis in Australia. The display and parade have become so iconic that the festival hosted the launch of Volkswagen Australia's new electric Kombi: ID Buzz.
From simple beginnings in 2005 the festival has grown to attract people from across Australia and the world. The festival program encourages a diverse crowd including Kombi lovers, motor enthusiasts, families, music fans, foodies, holidaymakers and art supporters. It was inducted into the NSW Tourism Hall of Fame in 2011.
"Old Bar Beach Festival is one our region's signature events and Council is proud to support it," said Tanya Lipus, MidCoast Council's Manager Economic and Destination Development.
"Spendmapp data indicates the festival provides a positive economic stimulus over the weekend directly into Old Bar, and is higher than the increase region-wide driven by the holiday weekend."
"Overnight visitors to the event fill up local campgrounds, accommodation, cafes and hotels, and contribute $3.2million to the local economy."
· When: Friday 3 October to Sunday 5 October 2025
· Where: Old Bar Sporting Fields, Old Bar Rd, Old Bar
· What: Kombi display and parade, live music across the weekend, classic car and bike display, mega markets, street food, licensed bar, free kids' activities, fireworks, giant puppet performance, skydiving demonstration, amusements and carnival rides. There's also camping onsite or you can book nearby accommodation.
