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POP BAM Festival: Why did Batman cross the road?

Possibly because he was being pursued by Ghostbusters, Princess Leia and an old bloke in a dress????

When the Pop Culture Festival comes to Lake Mac this year, you’d better buckle up and wear your favourite character’s outfit. As cosplay becomes more and more popular, there’ll be plenty of families in Lake Mac who’ll enjoy a day of dressing up!  I’ve heard whispers that if dementors descend on Glendale, we’ve got four Ghostbusters on hand to clean up the mess. And, if that doesn’t work, we can always turn to the force for assistance!

Cosplay hits Hunter Sports Centre

Lake Mac is hosting its 3rd pop culture festival, and this year you’ll find it at the Hunter Sports Centre. With plans for characters from Star Wars, Ghostbusters, Doctor Who, and Harry Potter attending, there’ll be something for everyone. Love building Lego or role-playing games? This festival will be right up your alley.

“This will be an inclusive event aimed at teens and above, celebrating the fun and magic that pop culture delivers” 

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Event Highlights

With lots of activities planned during the day, here are some of the highlights!

  • Cosplay panel and parade
  • Conversation with actor Matt Doran
  • Star Wars with the 501st and Rebel legions, and meet the Ghostbusters
  • Sword play with Newcastle Swordcraft and Saber Academy Demonstration
  • Movie props with Simon Wait
  • Saber Academy Demonstration 
  • Pop culture vehicle exhibits and mini LEGO displays
  • Mobile video games truck, cosplay meet and greet, and pop culture stalls
  • Activities zone with anime, manga, drawing workshops, craft, and more.

Release your inner child

“Sometimes I think people forget how much fun it is to be a kid, and enjoying the heck out of things just because you can.”  

“Most parents will bring their kids to the event, thinking it’s just for them, but the parents end up getting a kick out of it also.” – Brenton Portus who has been involved in the cosplay scene for almost 15 years.

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Tickets & details

This event will be held at Hunter Sports Centre in Glendale on the 26th of July 2025, 10 am – 3 pm. 

  • Adults $20 + booking fee
  • Adults Lake Mac Arts $18 + booking fee
  • Youth (5-17 years) $10 + booking fee
  • Children under 5 Free
  • An adult must accompany children up to 15 years old.

NOTE: Tickets purchased at the gate will be at a higher price: Adults $25, Lake Mac Arts members $22.50, and youth $15. 

For all event details: Lake Mac POP BAM: Pop Culture Festival – Lake Macquarie City Council

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