Newcastle Tuna Fest returns this July.
Bigger, bolder, and built for Winter.
Tuna Festival 2026
Tuna Festival 2026
Get ready for a month-long celebration of seafood, restaurants, and Newcastle’s coastal dining identity.
Launching on Sunday 28 June 2026, the festival continues throughout July with the Newcastle Seafood Trail as the main feature. Around 30 participating venues across Newcastle will each create a signature tuna or seafood dish, giving locals and visitors the chance to taste their way through the city.
The festival celebrates what makes Newcastle special: our connection to the ocean, our passionate local venues, talented chefs, and the vibrant food culture that brings the city to life.
A printed trail booklet and map will guide guests from venue to venue, showcasing each dish and the chefs behind them.
Come hungry, follow the trail, and discover Newcastle’s seafood scene like never before.
Presented by Nagisa and the Hunter Culinary Association.
Grand Opening Event
It all begins with a spectacular Grand Opening at Nagisa Japanese Restaurant. Tickets are strictly limited for your chance to get up close and personal with a live carving of an 80kg Bluefin Tuna by Chef Koji from Japan.
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Opening the Event
You will experience a powerful taiko drumming performance to set the stage. A traditional sake breaking ceremony will follow, that symbolises prosperity and good fortune.
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8 Courses Included
You will enjoy speciality prepared dishes by Nagisa, served throughout the afternoon. Paired with bottomless Hunter Valley Wines.
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Chosen from Japan
There will be a live tuna knife auction, specially sourced from Tokyo for the Tuna Festival. This blade showcases traditional Japanese craftsmanship.
Follow the Seafood Trail
Visit participating venues across Newcastle to try their exclusive Tuna Fest offering.
