The Emerge Festival is returning to Chatswood with more than 150 stalls, five live stages and a street parade set to fill the heart of the city with culture, music and family fun.
Festival Dates and Main Event
The festival runs from 1 September to 12 October, with dozens of events planned across Willoughby City. Its biggest day will be Saturday, 6 September, when the Chatswood StreetFair takes over the central business district with food, music and activities.
The street parade, featuring dancers, drummers and cultural performers, will begin at 2 p.m. after a morning of entertainment and rides.
Local Focus and Cultural Diversity
This roadshow is one of several actions supporting the Northern Beaches Council’s climate goals. Already, 22,400 local homes have solar installed, preventing around 144,000 tonnes of carbon emissions each year, the equivalent of removing 44,000 petrol cars from the road. The Council is aiming for half of all suitable homes to be solar-powered by 2030.
Residents can also access free 20-minute phone consults, attend webinars, or drop into in-person sessions through the Solar Conversations program. Each service is designed to make solar decisions easier and more accessible for households across the region.
StreetFair Set to Draw Major Crowds
Get ready for a big day, Chatswood StreetFair bursts to life from 10 a.m., with food stalls, handmade crafts, community displays, and entertainers lighting up five stages. Kids can enjoy free rides on Anderson Street, while The Concourse Green Space and Spring Place come alive with circus fun and animal encounters.
This year’s street parade follows a new route, starting at Chatswood Chase and winding down Victoria Avenue to Westfield. Local schools, dance crews, and cultural groups are encouraged to jump in and be part of the celebration.
Community Spirit and Accessibility
Council leaders say the Emerge Festival is all about inclusivity, with most events free and set in accessible spaces around the Chatswood CBD. Community groups, performers, and small businesses are encouraged to get involved through stalls, entertainment, or volunteering.
The festival celebrates local pride while drawing visitors from across Sydney, giving small businesses and tourism a welcome lift. More than just fun, it’s about building community through shared experiences.
Published 22-July-2025
