Words on the Waves Writers Festival

May 27 – June 1, 2026
Immerse yourself in a festival of stories and ideas on the scenic Central Coast.

Words on the Waves Writers Festival is a celebration of words and ideas set on the scenic Central Coast, NSW, Australia. With author talks and panels, evening conversation events, writing workshops, local book launches, a literary cruise, a family fun day, a schools program, and more, the festival offers a diverse range of high-quality literary events for both the Central Coast community and visitors to the area.

Words on the Waves Writers Festival is the Central Coast’s premier celebration of literature, storytelling and big ideas, bringing together acclaimed authors, journalists, poets and creatives from across Australia for a vibrant multi-day program of talks, workshops, panels and special events. Held across stunning coastal venues, the festival offers audiences the chance to engage deeply with contemporary issues, powerful storytelling and imaginative thinking in an intimate and welcoming setting.

Since its launch in 2021, the festival has rapidly grown into a significant cultural event for regional NSW, attracting thousands of attendees and showcasing the Central Coast as a thriving hub for arts and culture. The 2026 program, themed “Take the Time,” will feature a diverse lineup of literary voices alongside workshops, book launches, family events and community programming designed to inspire readers and writers of all ages.