Save the date for Real Festival 2024

Wednesday, 28 August 2024

Real Festival is ready to captivate audiences once again on Friday 20 and Saturday 21 September at Tench Reserve.

The highlight event in Penrith City Council’s annual calendar, Real Festival will feature an impressive line-up of immersive experiences and entertainment, including the return of the open-air Roller Rink by Busways, art installations, performances, workshops, on-water activities, market stalls and a drool-worthy line up of food trucks and a pop-up Festival bar!

Experience interactive art displays by day, and an illuminated playground by night, with returning favourites open-air arcade, silent disGLOW and this year’s must-see installation The Guardians — giant, whimsical wildflower sculptures bursting with vibrant abstract patterns in the sunshine and glowing brilliantly as night falls.

Another not-to-be-missed highlight is the return of the hugely popular Roller Rink by Busways, bringing a nostalgic open-air roller-skating experience by the riverside for skating enthusiasts and novices alike. Pre-booking is required for FREE 30-minute sessions, including skate hire.

A world of enchantment awaits at the Shadow House – an extraordinary performance space and art installation. Crafted from recycled lace and material, this unique creation is where nostalgia meets creativity. Kids Yoga place and play fort by day, transforming into a captivating stage and puppet shadow theatre by night, bought to life by local artist Bria McCarthy.
Amber Dextrous will be making her Real Festival debut with an awe-inspiring fire twirling performance. Real Festival will offer a bustling market area, with local artisans and vendors, plus the food truck lineup will satisfy all taste buds, with delectable treats and culinary delights. Little Tokyo, and Penrith favourites Burgerhead are back again and parking next to newbies like The Big Big Aloha and Irie-Caribbean. Enjoy a culinary journey with Italian, Greek, Sudanese, South Indian, Turkish, Hawaiian and Caribbean delights. Caffeine fixes and an incredible line up of desserts are all on the menu.
For those looking to relax and unwind, the Festival Bar will be the perfect spot to enjoy a refreshing beverage while taking in the beautiful views of the Nepean River.

This year's program also offers a diverse array of workshops, from circus skills and solar making workshops for kids to recycled art, LEGO block building and lantern making for the whole family. The inaugural floating lantern parade will see the handmade lanterns lit and floated down the river.
Penrith City Council General Manager Andrew Moore shared his enthusiasm for the return of the much-loved Real Festival, encouraging everyone to bring their loved ones and experience the program.

"Penrith City Council is delighted to present this year's Real Festival, offering an incredible program for all who attend," Mr Moore said.
"Following the success of last year, we are thrilled to welcome everyone back to Tench Reserve with new highlights in the jam-packed program as well as the return of some fan favourites.
“Real Festival showcases a vibrant mix of entertainment, activities and experiences that cater to all ages.
“Festival-goers can look forward to many standout moments, including the Roller Rink by Busways, numerous engaging workshops, and an array of visual, interactive, and illuminated experiences.
“We’re bringing the very best in creative experiences, family-friendly entertainment and activities to Penrith. Real Festival is free to attend and this year's program is not to be missed,” Mr Moore said.

To view the program, book workshops and plan your trip to the event, head to the Real Festival website realfestival.com.au.
Connect with Real Festival on Facebook and Instagram to keep up to date with program highlights and Festival news.
Real Festival is proudly produced by Penrith City Council with the support of Busways, the Blue Mountains Gazette, Western Sydney Airport, and The Western Weekender.

EVENT DETAILS
What: Real Festival
When:
Friday 20 September, 4pm-10pm
Saturday 21 September, 12pm-10pm
Where: Tench Reserve, Tench Avenue, Jamisontown
Web: realfestival.com.au

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

#realfestival #visitpenrith

Information contained within this news release was correct as at Wednesday, 28 August 2024.