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City of Wollongong

Catch the wave of summer fun at free pop-up events

Tuesday 9 December 2025

A seaside circus performance, dogs parading in silly costumes, and synchronised swimming – this is some of the fun that is heading to a swim spot near you!

Wollongong City Council is excited to present Making Waves, a series of free arts and culture pop-up events at three popular beachside locations. There will be a mix of art, music, circus, dress-ups, poetry, synchronised swimming and more.

Over three days in December, North Wollongong Beach, Thirroul Beach and Port Kembla Pool will each take a turn to host hours of fun.

  • 4-7pm, Thursday 18 December, North Beach
  • 4-7pm, Friday 19 December at Thirroul Beach
  • 2.30-5.30pm, Saturday 20 December at Port Kembla Pool

Though each day will feature different activities, a free Plein Air painting workshop by award-winning local artist Ashley Frost will be offered at all three locations. You must book in to take part in the Plein Air workshops or The Pup Cup, but everything else is free to drop-in at any time during the event.

Lord Mayor of Wollongong Councillor Tania Brown said it’s a wonderful opportunity for people to enjoy their favourite summer spots in an exciting new way.

Making Waves will be a breath of fresh air to our beaches and pools, activating the space in a way that hasn’t been done before,” she said.

“It’ll be filled with lots of art and culture fun, with an array of diverse summer activities that complements each location.

“At Port Kembla Pool there’ll be aquatic aerobics and poolside comedy, Thirroul will enjoy sidewalk chalk art, and a very serious dog costume competition and North Beach will be a sandy stage to circus performers.

"From hands-on art activities to inspiring performances, there’s something for everyone. Ride the tide of good times Wollongong and join in on the fun! It’s not every day we get to throw a free pool and beach party for our community.”

Thirroul Beach will be debuting ‘The Pup Cup’ where there are prizes to be won in three categories – Best Dressed, Most like owner and People’s Choice. You must register your pup via Eventbrite before the event

For more information visit our Making Waves page or stay updated on our Facebook page.

Making Waves event details

EventWhenDetails
Seaside Frolics

North Beach, Wollongong
4-7pm, Thursday 18 December

Enjoy free seaside poetry, performances from Arcadians, circus and beach art for all ages.

Plein Air Painting – Bookings required

North Beach, Wollongong
4.30-6.30pm
Thursday 18 December
Award-winning local artist Ashley Frost will guide you through painting your landscape in this beginner-friendly outdoor painting workshop. Register now
Making Waves and The Pup Cup

Thirroul Beach
4-7pm, Friday 19 December Thirroul Beach Promenade will be full of fun including a dogs’ dress-up parade, music from DJ and Earth Wind and Choir and chalk art murals.
Plein Air Painting – Bookings required

Thirroul Beach
4.30-6.30pm, Friday 19 DecemberAward-winning local artist Ashley Frost will guide you through painting your landscape in this beginner-friendly outdoor painting workshop. Register now
Pool Party at Port Kembla

Port Kembla Beach
2.30-5.30pm, Saturday 20 DecemberPack your swimmers for an epic pool party with music, tinsel-making, comedy performances, games, aerobics and more!
Plein Air Painting – Bookings required

Port Kembla Beach
3-5pm, Saturday 20 DecemberAward-winning local artist Ashley Frost will guide you through painting your landscape in this beginner-friendly outdoor painting workshop. Register now

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