Newcastle's blockbuster year set for a grand finale: 120k fans, five major events over five stellar weeks

From international rugby league to some of the biggest names in music and motorsport, McDonald Jones Stadium is set to take centre stage as the Hunter caps off a massive year.

The events are expected to deliver a major boost to the Hunter's economy in the lead-up to Christmas, with thousands of visitors filling local hotels, pubs, restaurants and businesses.

It follows an exceptional season for the 'Pride of the Hunter', with the Newcastle Knights capturing the heart of the region with a fairytale run from the wooden spooners in 2025 to 2026 NRL Grand Finalists, falling just one point short of the premiership.

Now, the city is preparing to welcome of the biggest sporting and entertainment acts.

The action begins on Saturday, 7 November with the Rugby League World Cup Semi Final double header featuring New Zealand v Samoa in the women's competition and New Zealand v Tonga in the men's competition.

Rock legends Foo Fighters take to the stage on Thursday, 12 November, followed by global superstar Robbie Williams on Tuesday, 17 November.

The AUSX Supercross Championship Grand Final returns on Saturday, 28 November, before Guns N' Roses bring the five-week event season to a close on Tuesday, 8 December.

Off the field, remediation works to the stadium roof have been completed, with the upper tier of the Andrew Johns Stand to reopen to fans for the first time on Saturday, restoring 3714 seats to the stadium's capacity.

A new accessibility lift is also being added to the stand, improving access for all patrons.

Works have started on the installation of new modern sports lighting, funded by Destination NSW ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup, which is scheduled for completion early next year. These lights will enhance the fan experience for Knights and Jets home games and other major events.

Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley said:

"What a year it has been for Newcastle and the Hunter. The Knights took us all the way to the NRL Grand Final and now we're getting ready to welcome some of the biggest names in sport and music to our town.

"We may have fallen one point short in the Grand Final, but the Knights have given the Hunter something to be incredibly proud of. And the excitement is not over yet with 120,000 fans expected over the next five weeks.

"We know cost of living pressures are making things tougher than ever for families, but events like these give people something to look forward to and bring a welcome boost to the local businesses, pubs and hotels that rely on a busy summer.

"Newcastle knows how to put on a show. We've got a city that loves its sport, loves its music and knows how to welcome a crowd. What a way to finish the year."

Minister for Sport and Minister for Jobs and Tourism, Steve Kamper said:

"Newcastle is finishing 2026 with a bang, as five major events bring thousands of visitors to the Hunter and deliver strong benefits for local jobs, businesses and tourism.

"This blockbuster lineup will showcase the best of the region and reinforce Newcastle's status as one of Australia's leading major events destinations."

"With the new upgrades to McDonald Jones Stadium, we're ensuring that Newcastle's premier venue is ready to host even more world-class events in the years ahead."

Member for Charlestown, Jodie Harrison said:

"Locals are in for a treat, with five blockbuster events set to bring McDonald Jones Stadium to life and boost local tourism and businesses over the next five weeks.

"Our community has a proud history of getting behind major sporting and entertainment events, and it's fantastic to see Newcastle attracting such a strong line-up."

Member for Newcastle, Tim Crakanthorp said:

"Newcastle is wrapping up an unforgettable year in style. From a historic run from the Knights to stadium upgrades, 2026 is a year to be celebrated.

"Our city is taking centre stage with national and international acts right on our doorstep.

"The next five weeks in Newcastle are going to be a festival of sport and music and I can't wait!"

Duty MLC for Lake Macquarie and Upper Hunter, Emily Suvaal said:

"These events are in Newcastle, but their benefits reach across the Hunter. When 120,000 fans come through our region, local businesses and workers right across the Hunter feel it.

"And for families from Lake Macquarie to the Upper Hunter, it means some of the biggest names in sport and music are right on our doorstep."

City of Newcastle Councillor, Peta Winney-Baartz said:

"These major concerts and events are a fantastic opportunity for our community to come together, enjoy world-class entertainment close to home and take pride in what Newcastle has to offer. They also bring visitors into our city, supporting local jobs, small businesses, pubs, cafés and restaurants.

"It's great that locals can enjoy these incredible events on their doorstep, without travelling too far, while helping our local economy thrive."