Real Festival Returns to Light Up the Nepean River – 12–14 September 2025

Sunday, 17 August 2025

Real Festival is ready to captivate audiences once again from Friday 12 to Sunday 14 September at Tench Reserve, Jamisontown.

Penrith City Council’s flagship event will deliver a jam-packed program of immersive experiences and entertainment for all ages.

This year’s Real festival features an exciting mix of interactive art installations, live performances, creative workshops, market stalls, on-water activities and a mouthwatering lineup of Sydney’s best food trucks.

Visitors can also relax at the riverside pop-up Festival Bar while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere.

A major highlight is HEXADECA, a colourful sound playground where movement creates music by Pulsing Heart. Festival-goers can also experience the shimmering beauty of Evanescent by Atelier Sisu, and when night falls, marvel at the glowing overhead display created by illuminart “Stories in Light”. Returning favourites include the open-air arcade and the neon-lit silent disGLOW, offering playful fun for all ages.

Food lovers are in for a treat, with over 20 food trucks offering global flavours including Italian, Greek, South Indian, Turkish, Hawaiian, Caribbean and Sudanese cuisine. Festival favourites like Smoking Gringos and The Big Big Aloha return alongside newcomers such as Retro Rolls Ice Creamery Café and decadent gourmet flavours of fairy floss from Fluffy Crunch.

The festival also features a wide range of interactive activities, including Neon Mini Golf to recycled art and LEGO workshops.

Penrith Mayor Cr Todd Carney shared his excitement for the return of Real Festival.

“Penrith City Council is delighted to present this year’s Real Festival, offering an incredible program for all who attend,” Cr Carney said.

“Following the success of last year, we’re thrilled to welcome everyone back to Tench Reserve with new highlights and returning favourites.

“Real Festival showcases a vibrant mix of entertainment, activities and experiences that cater to all ages.

“We’re bringing the very best in creative experiences, family-friendly fun and riverside adventure to Penrith. This year’s program is not to be missed.”

To view the full program, book workshops and plan your visit, head to realfestival.com.au.

Stay connected with Real Festival on Facebook and Instagram for updates and behind-the-scenes previews.

Real Festival is proudly produced by Penrith City Council with the support of Busways, Western Sydney International Airport, The Blue Mountains Gazette and The Western Weekender.

EVENT DETAILS
What: Real Festival
When:
Friday 12 September, 4pm-10pm
Saturday 13 September, 4pm-10pm
Sunday 14 September, 10am -3pm
Where: Tench Reserve, Tench Avenue, Jamisontown
Web: realfestival.com.au

Socials:
Facebook.com/realfestivalpenrith
Instagram.com/realfestival

#realfestival #visitpenrith #discoverpenrith

Information contained within this news release was correct as at Sunday, 17 August 2025.