Lithgow’s Main Street is about to get a delicious new event as the Lithgow International Schnitzel Festival brings schnitzel, street life, and civic pride to the heart of Lithgow.
Backed by $340,000 in NSW Government funding over three years, under the Open Streets Program, the Festival is an annual place activation program that will transform Main Street into a vibrant pedestrian precinct with music, culture, creativity, and crispy golden schnitzels.
Lithgow Mayor, Cr Cassanda Coleman, welcomed the announcement:
“This is not just about schnitzels – though we are proud to claim the title of Australia’s Schnitzel Capital. The Lithgow International Schnitzel Festival is a delicious way to bring our community together, drive tourism, create new opportunities for local business, and tell a positive story about our future. It’s joyful. It’s unique. And it’s completely, unapologetically Lithgow.”
Set to roll out across three years, the festival will feature highlights including the Snitty Showdown competitive cook-off, Schnitz & Giggles comedy performances, and a hands-on ‘Crumbed & Curious’ Schnitzel Innovation Lab led by Lithgow High School students. Pop-up dining spaces, live entertainment, and family-friendly zones will help turn Main Street into a space of celebration and connection.
“We’re combining tactical urbanism with culinary creativity and using it to reimagine what our Main Street can be: fun, walkable, creative, and delicious,” Mayor Coleman said. “This is exactly the kind of innovative, place-based initiative that builds local pride and drives tourism.”
The festival is part of Lithgow Council’s strategic push to revitalise its town centre through placemaking, events, and economic evolution. Funding from the Open Streets Program will allow for street closures, tactical public space upgrades, community engagement, and support for local traders to participate in the festival.
The first festival is scheduled to take place in early 2026, with planning already underway. The first exciting schnitzel alert is coming soon detailing the exciting range of performers, culinary delights and fun activities that will make up this must see event!
For more information visit our Schnitzel Festival FAQs – Lithgow International Schnitzel Festival FAQs – Lithgow City Council