2023 Real Festival Program
You’re in for a REAL treat when acclaimed entertainers, live music, activities and adventures come together in a spectacular fusion of fun. There’s something new and exciting around every corner at Real Festival.
Event times:
Friday 15 September 4pm-10pm
Saturday 16 September 4pm-10pm
Sunday 17 September 10am-3pm
Be captivated, surprised and inspired by the dazzling collection of interactive and illuminated artworks from Australia’s best artists. Treat your tastebuds with some delicious food from Sydney’s best food trucks and a refreshing drink in the riverside bar. Stroll around the artisan markets and purchase something that’s been made, grown, sewn, picked, crafted or harvested in the region. You’re in for a real treat with family entertainment, live music, spectacular stage shows and pop-up performances at every corner.
Join in on interactive fun for kids of all ages! From Hula Hooping and Circus workshops to slime making, kids yoga, a silent disco and SO. MUCH. MORE!
Performances
Alicia Varas
Alicia is a 21 year old singer/song writer based in Sydney. She will enthral you performing a mix of covers & originals in the styles of alternative-indie, singer-songwriter, soul, rock and R&B.
Acoustic Stage Friday 5pm
Markets
Sydney based creator of art, polymer clay jewellery, trinket dishes and stained-glass pieces. You’ll definitely want to check out these unique pieces!
Art
Australian Birds by Atelier Sisu
The birds sit cheerfully above the audience. Can you spot them in the trees?
Food & Bar
Big Jay’s Smokehouse
The team are passionate about low and slow BBQ and they can’t wait to see the happiness on your face when you sink your teeth into something they’ve spent hours creating just for you! (GF, K)
Markets
Designed to bring a little positivity or humour to your day, Bigger Than Joy creates unique, handmade, personalised gifts and home décor.
Food & Bar
Bloomin’ Onion
Try Burger Heads’ large onion flower served with Siracha mayo or loaded up with cheese and bacon bits. (H, V, VG)
Performances
Bonniedoon
Hailing from the Blue Mountains, this indie rock n soul band will not disappoint with powerhouse vocals, soulfully solid guitar rhythm and smooth bass note and drumbeats.
Main stage Saturday 8.45pm
Performances
Brett Sams
A voice that is an amalgamation of 90’s vocal tone! Deep, resonating sound of Eddie Vedder fed through an Ed Kowalczyk converter and run through a Chris Cornell plug in!
Acoustic Stage Sunday 2pm
Food & bar
Burger Head
For traditional burgers with a modern twist, including the very trendy Mike Tyson Vegan Burger, make your way over to Burger Head. (H, DF, GF, V, VG)
Markets
Check out their exciting and scent-sational range of handmade soy candles, waxes, melts and gift packs, melt warmers and diffusers.
Workshops
Grab your mat and relax! Practical movement activities and breathing exercises in a safe and controlled environment. Bookings essential
Sunday 10am - 3pm | ages 3 - 12
Performances
Circaholics Anonymous
Fire twirling entertainment that will leave you on the edge of your seat!
Roving Friday and Saturday 6pm
Workshops
Circus Drop Zone
Don’t run away and join the circus before trying it out at Real Festival! Try trapeze, juggling, unicycle and more.
Fri & Sat 4-9pm Sun 10am-3pm | 4&up
Markets
Treat yourself to environmentally conscious luxurious products, including soaps, shampoo bars, eco-friendly toiletries and cleaning products, linen sprays.
Performances
Dauntless Movement Crew
Movement based stunt team combine jaw-dropping stunts and choreography.
Main Stage Saturday 5pm
Performances
Demage
This well known duo performed balcony concerts during COVID-19 to their Penrith community! Enjoy onstage chemistry, harmonies and melodic guitar riffs
Acoustic Stage Saturday 7pm
Markets
Sustainable, versatile and durable hand crafted leather. Explore the range of bags, belts, home décor, wallets and purses, stationery, and accessories!
Performances
Divinia Eather
Unique jazz-infused folk sound, through rich musical layers and immersive storytelling using live-looping techniques to layer guitar, percussion, and vocal harmonies.
Acoustic Stage Saturday 5pm
Performances
DJ Arisse
Get ready to hit the dancefloor! This Western Sydney DJ, Dancer, Event Producer and Community Leader will be spinning a hip hop and R&B set, infused with a bit of funk and disco!
DJ Stage Friday 5pm & Sunday 1pm
Performances
DJ Flywaves
Expect anything from chilled smooth sets to sweaty dance floors. Travel through eras and countries, from the roots of reggae, hip hop soul, latin and afrobeats.
DJ Stage Friday & Saturday 7.30pm
Performances
DJ Justin Valentino
Full of charisma, style & entertainment, Justin’s set is guaranteed to make you dance and have a good time with his mix of house/electro, pop and 60s – 00s classics!
DJ Stage Sat 5pm & Sun 11am
Workshops
Dragonboat Paddling
Dragonboating - combine physical fitness and fun for a perfect blend of adventure! Register on the day.
Sunday 10am – 3pm | adults
Food & Bar
Drippin Desserts
Satisfy your dessert cravings with a selection of loaded desserts including Donut Balls, Donut Fries, Churros, Waffles & Brownie cups with drool worthy toppings of your choice! (K)
Markets
From feeding bowls to toys, harnesses and treats, we have it all! We are your one stop shop for all your pet needs.
Performances
Ebony and Ivory
Performing a wide range of songs for all ages, from soul & R&B to pop. Everyone will love the smooth sound of Ebony and Ivory.
Main Stage Sunday 1pm
Performances
Ebony Rose
With a passion for songwriting, local singer, song writer Ebony's soulful lyrics and touching melodies expose a truly sensitive artist whose heartfelt voice is not to be missed.
Main Stage Friday 5pm
Performances
Elina Roberts Turner
From Fleetwood Mac to Aussie classics and the latest releases - Elina’s uplifting acoustic set has something for everybody!
Acoustic Stage Friday 7pm
Food & Bar
Emmy’s Gozleme
Wholesome and hearty, made with farm fresh local produce. Emmy’s Gozleme is made fresh to order with lots of authentic varieties and a modern twist. (GF, H, DF, VG, V, K)
Food & bar
Festival Bar
Unwind by the Nepean River at our open-air bar where bespoke cocktails, uniquely crafted with a Real Festival flair, alongside beer, wine, and cider await.
Fri & Sat 4pm - 10pm
Performances
Frankie & Charles
Enjoy country/folk and RnB-infused pop covers from this energetic duo using a mashup of vocals, acoustic guitar, electronic beats, synths, and keyboard bass.
Acoustic Stage Friday 6pm
Food & Bar
Fritz’s Wieners
Make sure you visit this retro fitted Kombi Van serving award winning Bratwurst sausages in a roll, topped with tasty onions and Sauerkraut – YUM! (GF, K, KE)
Discover
Fur Real
Fur Real! Furry friend lovers unite! Peruse products for your pooch, grab a pic at the Neon Dog Park.
Food & bar
Gelato Messina
Traditional Italian gelato made from real ingredients. It’s this simple philosophy that has won Gelato Messina a legion of followers. (GF, DF, V, VG)
Food & Bar
Get Frozen
All your favourite Coca-Cola bottled and frozen drinks! What’s your favourite slushie combo? (DF, V, K)
Markets
This smallgoods business has a loyal following. Check out their range of artisan made salami & mettwurst.
Markets
Rediscover vitality in your routine with our cold-pressed juice selection: original flavors, seasonal favorites, hemp products, and holistic blends.
Workshops
Hula Hoop Station
Do your kids love to Hula Hoop, or would love to learn how? Come along to the Hula Hoop station and get those hips hula hooping!
Fri & Sat 4-9pm Sun 10am-3pm |4&up
Markets
Natural products to support wellbeing, and a happier, healthier, cleaner life.
Performances
Illuminart
The Nepean River captivatingly transformed using light, sound and storytelling, featuring animated artworks by the No Boundaries Art Group and starring the Nepean Belle.
Main Stage Fri & Sat 6.30pm & 8pm
Performances
Jake Edgley
Combining his own funky and folky originals with covers from Australian rock, funk, and acoustic artists, Jake creates a dynamic and engaging musical experience for all.
Acoustic Stage Friday 8pm
Performances
Jerrah
Jerrah Patston is a musician from the lower Mountains, and is noted for his unique, whimsical style.
Acoustic Stage Sunday 12pm
Performances
Jet Pack Show
Experience heart-pumping, mind blowing adrenaline action with our Jetpack shows
Main Stage Fri&Sat 6.50pm & 8.20pm
Performances
Junkyard Beats
Experience a unique high-energy performance of drumming, dancing, comedy & creative recycling. Sponsored by Council’s Waste and Resource team
Main Stage Saturday 6pm
Discover
Junkyard Beats Mobile
Get ready to embark on a rhythmic journey like no other! Sponsored by Council’s Waste and Resource team.
Roving - Friday 5pm - 7pm
Performances
Karleigh Rose
Sit back and relax as Karleigh Rose takes you on a musical journey singing a wide variety of genres and styles, turning songs into unique acoustic covers.
Acoustic Stage Sunday 11am
Markets
Key rings, mugs, travel mugs and other unique items printed with Katie’s artwork and illustrations.
Workshops
Kayak & Stand up Paddleboards
Experience the beautiful Nepean River from a different perspective with free kayaking & stand up paddling.
Sunday 10am - 3pm 10 & up
Performances
Keely
Keely is a proud Gubbi Gubbi, Gooreng Gooreng and South Sea Islander woman, whose sound is genre defying and grounded heavily in R&B, soul and jazz.
Main Stage Friday 8.45pm
Performances
Kirk Burgess
With an incredible repertoire featuring countless songs from the 60’s through to today, all played faithful to the essence of the original recordings with an emphasis on fun.
Acoustic Stage Saturday 9pm
Food & bar
Lambda Souvla Grill
Hands up if you love Souvlaki? What’s not to love about tender meat, salad, cheese and chips wrapped in pita, drizzled with Tzatziki sauce. (H, GF, DF, V, K)
Markets
LB Sweets are a Sydney based producer of fairy floss, body scrubs, gift boxes and more. Treat yourself or treat someone else!
Food & bar
Let’s Do Yum Cha
One of Sydney’s favourite food trucks is bringing Yum Cha to you. Think crispy spring rolls, steaming dumplings and BBQ buns! (H, DF, V, VG, NF, EF)
Food & Bar
Light Bulb Lemonade
Enjoy colourful and delicious lemonade and ice tea served in bulb shape of container. (H, GF, DF, V, VG, K)
Markets
Peruse watercolour artist Lindy Lou‘s unique range of gifts and products. Paper prints, fabric covered sketch/photo books, paper clay sculptures, and hand painted earrings.
Markets
Beautiful, personalised gifts for someone special! From charming baby items such as bibs and burp clothes, to curated hampers for all occasions.
Food & bar
Little Tokyo
Indulge and Immerse yourself in Japanese cuisine with crispy Japanese Fried Chicken, Street tacos, skewers, loaded fries and more! (H, GF, DF, V, VG, EF, NF, SF, SE)
Art
Love Birds by Atelier Sisu
Amidst the breeze, vividly hued birds gracefully glide, mesmerizing with vibrant color and light.
Markets
Browse a beautiful range of handmade scrunchies, hair claws, makeup headbands, scrunchie wristlets, motivational water bottles, hats and more.
Workshops
Make your Own Instrument
Create instruments from recycling. With Junkyard Beats, sponsored by Council's Waste & Resource Team.
Sunday 1.30pm - 2.30pm | 3 & up
Performances
MC Sean Murphy
From Barbados to Bangladesh, Port Louis to Penrith, Sean Murphy is all about high-energy and entertaining people.
Markets
A socially conscious brand that promotes environmentally friendly packaging and vegan base products, offering a range of candles, skin care, makeup, and accessories.
Markets
Crafted with care: sustainable, luxury candles, homemade gifts, honey, and honeycomb. Embracing eco-friendly principles for a better home and planet.
Discover
Mobile Playvan
Little ones will love Mobile Playvan where they can play with toys, create craft and touch, see and explore a range of activities designed to engage the littlest of minds.
Sunday 10am – 3pm | 0 - 6 years
Markets
Beautiful variety of succulents and cacti as well as decorative pots and gift arrangements.
Workshops
Musical Garden
Stroll through a playground for musical exploration and fun-filled jam sessions with Junkyard Beats. Sponsored by Council’s Waste and Resource team.
Sunday 11am – 1pm | All Ages
Art
Neon Dog Park by Volter International
Carla O'Brien's Neon Dogs Collection: Delightful photo ops with larger-than-life LED Pups in playful poses.
Workshops
Neon Jewellery Making
Walk away with a beautiful, beaded neon creation. Give it to a friend or to keep for yourself and wear proudly.
Fri & Sat 4pm-10pm | Ages 3 & up
Discover
Experience the Nepean River from the breathtaking Nepean Belle. Meet at the Wharf. Cruises departs every 20min.
Fri & Sat 4pm-8:30 Sun 10-3
Art
Ocean Blue
Enchanting voyage: forests, rivers, and oceans intertwine. Seek illuminated art - cheeky crabs, grumpy seagulls, and elusive octopus await discovery.
Discover
Open Air Arcade
A retro throwback to the golden age of gaming with old friends Pacman, Pinball, Space invaders + more.
Discover
Our Place Selfie Spot
Smile on! The hottest spot to capture Real Festival memories is at our place, the Selfie Spot!
Workshops
Paper Lantern Making
Get creative and make and personalise your very own paper lantern.
Fri 5-7pm Sat 5-8pm Sun 11-2:30pm
Performances
Phat Brass
The energy the brass band world was missing! Pop, jazz, electronic and rock combine in an atmosphere of powerful, inclusive fun
Acoustic stage/roving Sat 8pm
Performances
Phil Davidson
Accomplished local singer, songwriter and performer known for weaving compelling stories into music and performances, with a wonderful turn of phrase and melodies.
Acoustic Stage Saturday 6pm
Workshops
Pot Decorating
Showcase your creativity and decorate your own pot with the Messy Makers! Sponsored by Council's Sustainability team.
Sun only 10am - 3pm | ages 3 & up
Markets
Indulge in some sugary goodness and visit Pour Some Suga to be transported to a sweet a colourful world of treats and surprises!
Discover
Recycled Book Art- Installation
Join Penrith Library and snap a photo in our recycled book art-installation, add a leaf to our tree of knowledge.
Food & bar
The River Boat Bar is a groundbreaking gem in the West. As the region's first and only floating bar, combining modern sophistication and breathtaking river views.
Sunday 10am - 3pm
Workshops
Rock Painting
Bring out your inner Picasso and create mini rock art masterpieces with Messy Makers! They will have all the tools you need to bring out a smorgasbord of colour and imagination
Friday 4pm – 10pm | Ages 3 & Up
Discover
Roller Derby Demo
Join Penrith's Roller Derby League! Fun, fitness, and family-oriented. Watch demos, meet skaters, learn to skate. Inclusive and exciting sport for all ages and skill levels.
Sunday 2:25pm
Discover
Get your skates on! 30 minute roller skating session including skate hire. Sponsored by Busways. Ages 4+
Fri & Sat 4pm -10pm Sun 10am–3pm
Food & Bar
Rolling Schnitzel
All about connecting food lovers with great schnitzel wraps, every ingredient has been carefully considered, seriously tested and wrapped together with passion. (H, V, K)
Art
Sal the Snail by Atelier Sisu
Witness an enchanting portrayal of the unassuming garden snail, aglow in a kaleidoscope of vibrant hues.
Markets
Sammy’s Bippity Boppity Boutique
Handmade kids products, cute clothing, funky hair accessories and more.
Food & Bar
Screaming Beans
Come and sample our fantastic coffee and hot beverages from one of Penrith’s favourite coffee vans! (H, GF, DF, V, VG, K)
Food & Bar
Satay Bros
From classic satay and crispy pork burgers to Thai loaded fries – there’s something for everyone at Satay Bros! (GF, DF, H)
Performances
Shara Rose
Warm, engaging vocals with lyrics that tell stories straight from the heart, inspiring people to have hope. Shara’s contemporary guitar-driven style mixes indie, pop, and country.
Acoustic Stage Sunday 1pm
Food & Bar
Sift’d
Here to meet all your coffee and cake needs, Sift'd provides the best beverages and freshly baked cakes. Stop by the van to pick up some tasty treats! (GF, K)
Discover
Silent DisGlow
Unleash your dance moves and dance (link no one is watching!) the night away at the The Silent DisGlow.
FRIDAY & SATURDAY 4pm – 9pm
Food & Bar
Slice of Sin
Delicious New York Style baked cheesecake loaded with your favourite toppings like Oreo crumble, Biscoff, Golden Gay Time, sprinkles, strawberry and Nutella, Reece’s or Raffaelo! (H)
Workshops
Slime Workshop
Learn the secrets to make your own soft and fluffy slime and take your home with you for endless fun.
Saturday 4pm-10pm | ages 4 & up
Performances
Strings on Fire
The violin duo with many strings to their bow! This high-class act will surprise, engage and captivate you.
Main Stage Saturday 7.15pm
Food & Bar
Stripped Street Food From Gaza
Traditional Palestinian street food using family recipes, with Falafel pockets the star of the show. (VG, DF, DF, V)
Food & bar
Stroopbros
A favourite at Real Festival. Their traditional fresh Dutch Stroopwafels and ice cream sandwiches are a must-try any time of day sweet-treat. (H)
Workshops
Interested in music lessons? Come down and strum and sing along with Stormer Music to get a taste of what its like! No experience needed to join in the fun!
Fri & Sat 5,6,7 & 8pm | ages 6 & up
Performances
Sun Affair
The feel-good project from songwriter Wesley Stormer. Drawing on the warmth and nostalgia of the 70’s, Sun Affair prides itself on catchy hooks and lyrics from the heart.
Main Stage Sunday 2pm
Markets
Nourish your furry best friend with our additive, preservative, and sugar-free dehydrated treats. New products and old favorites available at Real Festival.
Food & Bar
Thai Street Food by Jaroon
Fresh authentic Thai cuisine made traditionally using fresh and traditional Thai spices. (DF, V, K)
Food & Bar
Tortatoes Twisted Potatoes
This twisted potato snack is a festival favourite, with a delicious crispy golden exterior and a soft, fluffy interior.
Markets
Find out what toys are trending, browse through the range of quality toys and snap up a gift for the littlest people in your life.
Performances
Van Sereno
Armed with his trusty three quarter acoustic guitar and a basic loop station, Van will have your head bopping and feet tapping to a mix of pop, blues, R&B, indie, groove, and folk.
Acoustic Stage Friday 9pm
Food & Bar
Vege4Love
Vege4Love has you covered. They’ll be serving up Southeast Asian cuisines like Nasi Lemak, Char Koay Teow, Singapore Noodles and more! (GF, DF, V, VG, K)
Food & bar
Wagyu Blacks
Indulge in our exceptional Asian fusion menu featuring Wagyu Wrap, Long Chips, and Wagyu Loaded for a distinctive experience. (H, GF, V)
Workshops
Weaving with Nula
Connect with culture and community, weave with Ngiyampaa and Guringai artist Tarni Eastwood. Suitable for all ages
Fri & Sat 4-10pm. Sun 10am-3pm
Performances
Welcome to Country
Join Uncle Colin Locke and Uncle Peter Willams for Welcome to Country and a Didgeridoo performance.
Main Stage Friday 6pm
Workshops- SOLD OUT
Wild Edibles Foraging Workshop
Learn how easy it is to identify plants. hosted by author and environmental educator Diego Bonetto
Sunday 11am & 2pm | ages 8 & up
Food & Bar
Yia Yia’s Honeyballs
When you fancy something sweet, you’ve got to try Yia Yia’s traditional Greek donut balls called Loukoumades. Choose your favourite flavour or try them all! (DF, V)
Performances
YuNiOn
Prepare yourself to be taken on a fun, open and soulful journey through the high spirited energy of the Japanese taiko drum, blended with percussive sounds and festive song and dance.
Main stage Fri 7.15pm & Sun 12pm
