Don’t let the word “wellness” put you off coming to Thrive 2026. This free community festival offers far more than you might expect, with a colourful mix of roving performers, live music, interactive workshops, environmental education, delicious food and activities for all ages and abilities.
If you haven’t been to a Thrive festival before, you’re in for a treat.
Returning favourites include Sally Bubbles, who had a trail of little humans and adults following her at Thrive 2025, and Roo’d, a duo guaranteed to have you laughing before you even realise it. Talz Twirlz has entertained crowds year after year with her seemingly endless array of talents, while Fire and Light joins the line-up for 2026, bringing a little magic of her own.
These performers take entertainment to another level, creating experiences that appeal to children, teenagers, adults and people of all abilities.
There will be plenty happening throughout the day, with talented musicians taking to the stage, while stallholders offer interactive tasters of their services, along with free experiences and giveaways.
Visitors can get creative with chalk art on the pathway, grab a partner for the hilarious Granny Pants game or contribute to the positive vibes of the Thrive Hive.
At the heart of Thrive is a genuine commitment to the community, with sustainability, the environment and holistic wellbeing at its core. Raising awareness, sharing knowledge and providing opportunities for people to learn and connect are key priorities — and much of what’s on offer is completely free.
Environmental organisations Earthcare and Down 2 Earth will be among the festival guests, sharing their knowledge and passion for the natural world.
Visitors can also join Science for Wildlife for an engaging, hands-on adventure exploring koala scat and detection dogs. Morgan Philpot from WIRES will host an educational space tailored to koalas, with a particular focus on their habitat and place within the Hawkesbury.
Food lovers will find plenty to tempt them, with organic and homemade food samples available among the colourful stalls at MacMahon Park, Kurrajong. Visitors can also explore wellness therapies and a variety of healing modalities, with stallholders offering tasters and information about how their services may support health and wellbeing.
While most of us are familiar with physiotherapy or yoga, Thrive offers the chance to ask questions and get firsthand answers from practitioners. Perhaps you’ve wondered what kinesiology actually does, or how an end-of-life doula can support individuals and families through the final stages of life. You may also discover more affordable ways to plan for end-of-life care, explore available support and navigate this important stage without unnecessary expense.
For those who have been curious about trying a particular therapy or learning more about a wellness practice, Thrive provides a welcoming space to learn more, an opportunity to ask questions, explore different approaches and discover something new — without spending a cent.
And wellness is only part of the story.
Bargain hunters can browse vintage wares, retro fashion and a wide selection of second-hand treasures, while car enthusiasts can admire the impressive vehicles on display from the Corvette Club and a surprise guest car club.
Of course, there will be plenty of delicious food to choose from, too. Families looking to keep costs down are welcome to bring their own picnic and enjoy a relaxed day out in the park.
With entertainment, education, creativity, food and community connection all on the program, Thrive 2026 promises something for everyone.
Thrive Wellness Festival will be held at MacMahons Park, Kurrajong, on Saturday, October 24, from 11am to 4pm.
It’s a festival for the community, with something to discover around every corner — and it’s completely free to attend.
