
Toy Run: November 25
The annual toy run from Laurieton to Port Macquarie is on Saturday, November 25, in support of the Salvation Army Christmas Appeal. Chris Jackson from the Mid North Coast Chapter of the Harley Owners' Group (HOG) is one of the organisers of the charity event. He says toys will still be accepted across the day, with riders gathering at the Laurieton United Services Club from 10am, ready to depart at 11am for Westport Park, where family activities are planned.

Paddle out attempt: Town Beach, November 25
Kevin Young is organising a world record paddle out attempt at Town Beach on Saturday, November 25, to mark 10 years since losing his son, Zac, in a shark attack. The paddle-out is from 8.45am.
RunHaven: November 25
The inaugural RunHaven is being organised by the Port Pacers and all runners are being encouraged to enter either the half marathon or the 10km, 5km and 3km (kids) distances. Runners will be able to enjoy the view of the setting sun over the Camden Haven River while taking part in the event. It will be based at Bruce Porter Reserve in Laurieton. For more information, or to enter, visit www.runhaven.com.au
William Kentridge: until November 26
The Glasshouse Regional Gallery in Port Macquarie is currently showing William Kentridge - I Am Not Me, the Horse Is Not Mine. This Art Gallery of NSW touring exhibition features an eight-channel video work incorporating stop-motion animation, live action, archival video, and a soundtrack by acclaimed South African composer Philip Miller. The exhibition is free and runs until 2pm, November 26.

Christmas Fair: December 8
Port Macquarie's annual Christmas Fair will be held at the Town Square on Friday, December 8, with a new tree, a free ice skating rink, a laser light show and a visit from Santa among the major drawcards. There will be local artisan stalls. food trucks and roaming performers. The family-friendly fair will run from 5pm-9pm. Last year's controversial Christmas Tree is being replaced by a sustainable version standing 9.5m tall, with a walkthrough base. It will be lit at 8:15pm.

Fireworks: Port Macquarie, New Year's Eve
Business Port Macquarie will be lighting up the sky over Port Macquarie again this New Years Eve with two amazing fireworks shows at 9pm and midnight. It's all thanks to the sponsorship of Eire Constructions, The Westport Club and Comfort Inn Waters Edge. The events is also supported by a community grant from Port Macquarie-Hastings Council.
State Forests, Mid North Coast
Families wanting to get out in nature should consider the activities the Mid North Coast's state forests have to offer. Guulabaa (Place of Koala) in Cowarra State Forest, incorporates the Wildnets Adventure Park. There are also visitor and camping areas in Swans Crossing, Coopernook HQ and Cobrabald. For more information, visit forestrycorporation.com.au

Local markets
There are many local markets on the Mid North Coast. Just go to the following online guide to visit one near you: Markets around our region
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