Coastal Twist is a vibrant celebration of LGBTQIA+ arts, culture and community, with a 2026 theme of ‘Radical Radiance’. The festival invites locals and tourists alike to experience a colourful programme filled with cabaret, dance parties, visual art, storytelling, live music, youth events, and community celebrations. . . All culminating in the beloved Coastie Carnie Fair Day on the shores of Umina Beach.
This year, expect to see a blend of local talent and nationally-recognised artists. ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race Down Under’ season four winner Lazy Susan will be in attendance, as well as internationally acclaimed aerial circus and cabaret artist Empress Stah.
There’s also multi award-winning First Nations burlesque performer Kitty Obsidian, legendary Australian DJ Stephen Allkins (Love Tattoo), techno trailblazer DJ Estee Louder, Indigenous dancer and ballroom artist Gusta Mara, performance artist King Cuuntessa, drag king violinist Fine China, queer cabaret comedian and vocalist Frock Hudson, and a host of emerging and established creatives from the Central Coast and across Australia.
Other highlights of the 2026 festival include ‘Bravewords Live: Coastal Twist Edition’, where local and visiting writers share powerful true stories of life, love and resilience. . . The annual Coastal Twist Group Art Exhibition. . . The spectacular ‘Love Club Cabaret’ hosted by Lazy Susan. . . and ‘Dance Party Bauhaus Electric’.
In 2026 there’ll also be ‘Loud Mouth’, a youth-led showcase celebrating music, drag, dance, poetry and comedy from some exciting emerging queer creatives on the Central Coast. Plus, across the week, audiences can explore everything from literary events and visual art exhibitions to social gatherings, live music, and family-friendly activities.
It all wraps ups with Coastie Carnie Fair Day, a free, all-ages celebration held at Peninsula Recreation Precinct at Umina Beach, featuring live entertainment, market stalls, food vendors, community groups, family activities and the ever-popular Puparazzi Pooch Parade.
Coastal Twist is about more than just celebrating and uniting the LGBTQIA+ community. It also recognises the diversity than already exists within our communities – audiences of all ages, backgrounds, abilities, cultures, identities and experiences are encouraged to take part.
Check out the full programme.
Coastal Twist 2026 is on at the New South Wales Central Coast from 27 September-4 October.
