2026 Events near Lake Keepit, New England High Country NSW
From the world-famous Tamworth Country Music Festival to the high-octane Gunnedah Weeks of Speed and the rural charm of the Quirindi Show, the New England region of northern New South Wales comes alive in 2026 with a calendar packed full of music, food, markets, and country traditions.
This thriving area offers something for every season, whether you’re cheering at the races, browsing artisan stalls, or celebrating local heritage.
January 2026
16–25 January – Tamworth Country Music Festival (Tamworth)
The Tamworth Country Music Festival, Tamworth is the largest music event in the southern hemisphere, attracting artists and audiences from across Australia and beyond each January. Spanning hundreds of performances and thousands of shows across the region’s most iconic venues, the festival culminates in the prestigious Toyota Golden Guitar Awards. More than a celebration of country music, it offers an inclusive atmosphere with entertainment, activities, and experiences for all ages, making it a must-attend for music lovers and festivalgoers alike.
January – Gunnedah Country Market (Gunnedah)
The Gunnedah Country Market, on the 3rd Saturday each month, is a vibrant community market offering fresh produce, artisan goods, plants, and homemade treats. It’s a perfect way to experience Gunnedah’s local flavours and friendly atmosphere year-round.
February 2026
February – Gunnedah Country Market (Gunnedah)
The Gunnedah Country Market, on the 3rd Saturday each month, is a vibrant community market offering fresh produce, artisan goods, plants, and homemade treats. It’s a perfect way to experience Gunnedah’s local flavours and friendly atmosphere year-round.
March 2026
7–29 March – Gunnedah Weeks of Speed Festival (Gunnedah Rural Museum)
The Gunnedah Weeks of Speed Festival is an adrenaline-packed celebration of motorsports and speed-related events. Highlights include speedway racing titles, vintage car and hot rod showcases, motorbike races, drag sprints, and competitions like the Billy Boiling, Fishing and Shooting contests, Clash of the Sirens, and Whip Cracking Championships.
March – Gunnedah Country Market (Gunnedah)
The Gunnedah Country Market, on the 3rd Saturday each month, is a vibrant community market offering fresh produce, artisan goods, plants, and homemade treats. It’s a perfect way to experience Gunnedah’s local flavours and friendly atmosphere year-round.
April 2026
10–19 April – Taste of Tamworth Festival (Tamworth)
The Taste of Tamworth Festival is a ten-day culinary showcase celebrating the finest food, wine, and produce of the Tamworth region. From gourmet tastings to vibrant community gatherings, it highlights local growers, chefs, and artisans.
17–19 April – Gunnedah Show (Gunnedah Showground)
The Gunnedah Show is a beloved community gathering celebrating rural life. Features fireworks displays, pavilion exhibitions, and family-friendly entertainment.
25 April – Gunnedah Anzac Day Services (Gunnedah)
A solemn commemoration of Anzac Day with dawn and main services honouring Australian and New Zealand service members.
April – Gunnedah Country Market (Gunnedah)
The Gunnedah Country Market, on the 3rd Saturday each month, is a vibrant community market offering fresh produce, artisan goods, plants, and homemade treats. It’s a perfect way to experience Gunnedah’s local flavours and friendly atmosphere year-round.
May 2026
May – Gunnedah Country Market (Gunnedah)
The Gunnedah Country Market, on the 3rd Saturday each month, is a vibrant community market offering fresh produce, artisan goods, plants, and homemade treats. It’s a perfect way to experience Gunnedah’s local flavours and friendly atmosphere year-round.
June 2026
June – Gunnedah Country Market (Gunnedah)
The Gunnedah Country Market, on the 3rd Saturday each month, is a vibrant community market offering fresh produce, artisan goods, plants, and homemade treats. It’s a perfect way to experience Gunnedah’s local flavours and friendly atmosphere year-round.
July 2026
July – Gunnedah Country Market (Gunnedah)
The Gunnedah Country Market, on the 3rd Saturday each month, is a vibrant community market offering fresh produce, artisan goods, plants, and homemade treats. It’s a perfect way to experience Gunnedah’s local flavours and friendly atmosphere year-round.
August 2026
August (TBC) – Quirindi Prime Stock Show / Hook and Hoof Competition (Quirindi Showground)
Showcasing prime livestock and the skills of local graziers, with judging competitions, market stalls, and community activities.
August – Gunnedah Country Market (Gunnedah)
The Gunnedah Country Market, on the 3rd Saturday each month, is a vibrant community market offering fresh produce, artisan goods, plants, and homemade treats. It’s a perfect way to experience Gunnedah’s local flavours and friendly atmosphere year-round.
September 2026
4&5 September – Tamworth Show (Tamworth)
A traditional agricultural show with livestock judging, equestrian events, craft and produce competitions, wood chopping, carnival rides, and live entertainment, the Tamworth Show is a family favourite blending rural heritage with modern fun.
September– Gunnedah Country Market (Gunnedah)
The Gunnedah Country Market, on the 3rd Saturday each month, is a vibrant community market offering fresh produce, artisan goods, plants, and homemade treats. It’s a perfect way to experience Gunnedah’s local flavours and friendly atmosphere year-round.
October 2026
October – Gunnedah Country Market (Gunnedah)
The Gunnedah Country Market, on the 3rd Saturday each month, is a vibrant community market offering fresh produce, artisan goods, plants, and homemade treats. It’s a perfect way to experience Gunnedah’s local flavours and friendly atmosphere year-round.
November 2026
November – Gunnedah Country Market (Gunnedah)
The Gunnedah Country Market, on the 3rd Saturday each month, is a vibrant community market offering fresh produce, artisan goods, plants, and homemade treats. It’s a perfect way to experience Gunnedah’s local flavours and friendly atmosphere year-round.
December 2026
26 December – Quirindi Boxing Day Races (Quirindi Racecourse)
Visit the Quirindi Boxing Day Races for a festive and social day of country racing, bringing together locals and visitors for an end-of-year celebration.
December – Gunnedah Country Market (Gunnedah)
The Gunnedah Country Market, on the 3rd Saturday each month, is a vibrant community market offering fresh produce, artisan goods, plants, and homemade treats. It’s a perfect way to experience Gunnedah’s local flavours and friendly atmosphere year-round.
Plan Your 2026 New England Escape
With so many vibrant festivals, markets, and community celebrations filling the calendar, 2026 is the perfect year to experience the magic of the New England High Country.
Make Wilderluxe Lake Keepit your base and enjoy a stay that blends luxe, comfort, nature, and adventure. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the action, book your Wilderluxe Lake Keepit getaway today and start planning your 2026 adventure.
*Please note this article was based on available information and are subject to change. Please check the event managers website or social media to confirm dates and tickets.