It’s almost time to return to the shores of Lake Mac for ‘Float Your Boat’ 2026! Watch a dazzling parade of brightly lit vessels glide across Lake Macquarie, a truly unmissable event for families. Enjoy a colourful display of illuminated boats, plus fun activities onshore. This year, the celebrations take place over two evenings, giving residents on both sides of the lake a chance to join in the fun.
Western Lake Mac
On Friday, 19 June 2026, the flotilla will set sail from Empire Marina across Lake Macquarie to Toronto, Coal Point, and Wangi Wangi. But the fun doesn’t stop on the water! From 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm, enjoy live music, roaming illuminated performances, children’s activities, entertainment, and food trucks along the foreshore at Toronto.
Eastern Lake Mac
On Saturday, 20 June 2026, it’s the eastern side of Lake Mac’s turn to experience the magic! The flotilla will sail from Empire Marina to Warners Bay, Eleebana, Valentine, and Belmont. Enjoy the festivities at two live sites along the foreshore in Warners Bay and Belmont, with live music, roaming illuminated performances, children’s activities, entertainment, and food trucks from 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm.
Click through here for the boat parade schedule: Float Your Boat 2026
Join the parade
Lake Mac Council is calling all boaties! Help light up the lake by decorating your boat with lights and joining the flotilla.
Participation is open on both nights, and it’s free to enter. Plus, there are usually some pretty cool prizes for those who take part!


