Frankston is gearing up for a packed program of creativity and connection as South Side Festival returns from Friday 8 May to Sunday 17 May, bringing ten nights of events across different venues.
Leading the program is the transformation of Beauty Park into a glowing nighttime destination, with Neon Fields returning for its third year.
Across three nights from 8 to 10 May, the park will be filled with illuminated installations including a Unicorn Garden, Cosmic Playground and a new Stargate monolith. Food trucks and a bar zone will run on Friday and Saturday nights, while large-scale roaming puppets inspired by local stories will move through the space, adding a playful edge to the experience. Entry is free, with no bookings required.
Beyond the lights, the festival continues to expand its mix of events. The South Side Sea Soak invites participants to embrace the cooler weather with a dip in the bay, followed by a barbecue breakfast hosted by the Frankston Life Saving Club. At Cube 27, Live Cinema will see local young creatives produce a feature film in real time, from filming through to editing and projection.
Creative participation is a strong focus this year. A Wearable Canvas showcases fashion as art, while visitors can join a large-scale clothing swap or contribute to a community crochet project. Workshops and talks run throughout the program, covering everything from floristry and bush foods to mending skills.
Family-friendly highlights include You Are Me, an interactive installation blending puppetry and gaming, while adults can head to Human Love Quest for a live comedy dating show.
Tours also form part of the lineup, with street art walks and brewery visits offering a different way to explore the area.
For more information visit the website.
