This month Kiama kicks off an exhilarating festival season that promises something for everyone. Be ready for a full schedule of entertainment and events over the next four months.

The festival season began with the unique "Folk by the Sea" festival, on 22-24 September weekend, which captivated the crowd with melodic tunes, and a variety of activities and experiences.

But that's just the beginning! The festival line-up includes the ever popular and free KISS Arts Festival, a series of music festivals, and a diverse range of sporting and cultural events.

Kiama is introducing first-time events like the Jamberoo JAM Street Festival, Kiamasala, Clearly Music and Arts Festival, Changing Tides Festival, and the Dave Ferrit Festival. The aim of the events is to set new benchmarks for entertainment in Kiama, complementing our annual favourites such as the iconic New Year's Eve Sky Show and the return of the Red Hot Summer Tour.

Kiama Council has partnered with Destination Kiama, to support these events through the Destination Event Funding Program (with round 2 opening in December 2023). Additionally, the Reconnecting Regional NSW – Community Events Program fund assists in presenting the final street festival series at Jamberoo in October.

Destination Kiama is inviting expressions of interest (EOIs) from the community and local operators who wish to collaborate in organising a range of destination and community events. Event partners are selected based on specific event objectives and criteria.

If you're considering hosting an event in our region, it is recommended that event organisers apply for funding six months in advance and complete Council's Preliminary Event Application Form: Kiama Council Event Partner form. Detailed guidelines and information on sponsorship funds and evaluation criteria are available in Council’s Event Funding Guidelines.

There will be more event funding opportunities through Destination Kiama’s Destination Event Funding – Round Two, opening in December 2023. For further information and to submit your application.