Uni’s Open Day returns in 2026 with something for everyone
More than 5,000 prospective students, their families and community members are expected to attend the University of Newcastle's annual Open Day on this Saturday.
Open Day is one of the largest events in the University’s calendar and this year's event will feature a host of new activities for everyone in the family including Home Grown, a free all-ages live music festival, a mini book fair and student craft markets, alongside 90 study information sessions, and 60 hands-on activities.
University of Newcastle Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, Professor Belinda Tynan encouraged anyone thinking about studying to come along to the University’s Callaghan, NUspace, Conservatorium and Q Building locations on Saturday to experience the campus and get advice about their study options.
“Whether you're finishing high school, a parent, exploring a career pivot or you’re just interested in checking out the campus, it's a fantastic opportunity to come along to the University and see what its all about,” said Professor Tynan.
“You can talk to other students about what studying is like, visit the Expo, join new clubs, try hands on activities for the degrees you’re thinking about studying and talk to your future lecturers.
Friends of the University will host a mini version of their popular book fair at the open day while music lovers can head to Bar on the Hill from 1pm – 6pm for Home Grown, a free all-ages live music event. The event will include local and emerging talent with performances from Saylor and the Flavor, Butterknife, Kate Moth (Sydney), Elestial, Gauze, Reservoir, The Sweet Heaps and Loose Zipperz.
Professor Tynan reminded the community that Open Day is not just for high school students.
“We want everyone who comes to Open Day to leave feeling inspired about their future,” she said.
“More than half of our students don’t come directly from high school so if you’ve been in the workforce for a while and you’re thinking about doing something different, Open Day is the perfect first step before you take the leap.”
A free shuttle bus will operate every 30 minutes between the Callaghan and Newcastle City campuses from 8.30am to 4pm, with visitors are encouraged to register and plan their day in advance using the online program scheduler.
For those unable to attend in Newcastle, the University's Central Coast Open Day will take place on 29 August at the Gosford and Ourimbah campuses from 10am to 2pm.
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The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.