The Nepean River once again became the heart of Penrith as thousands flocked to Tench Reserve for the annual Real Festival, held from the 12th-14th of September. Over three days, the riverside transformed into a lively celebration of art, food, music and adventure, reaffirming its reputation as one of Western Sydney’s most anticipated community events. Since its 2016 launch, the free event has grown into one of Western Sydney’s premier cultural celebrations, drawing thousands of locals and visitors to experience creativity, family fun and connection.
First launched with four core pillars: River, Environment, Art and Lifestyle (REAL), the festival continues to deliver on its name, offering experiences that blend creativity with family-friendly fun. This year’s program saw the return of popular attractions such as the neon-lit silent ‘disGLOW’, the open-air arcade and hands-on workshops, alongside dazzling new highlights that lit up the riverbanks after dark.
The Real Festival isn’t just about the lights and installations; it’s about people. For many locals the event is a chance to showcase small businesses and connect with the community.
Linda Hernando showcasing her pottery at the festival. Photo: Samina Rakhshani, 2025
Emu Plains pottery studio owner Linda Hernando said festivals like REAL are invaluable for small business exposure. She said the markets help her attract students and promote handmade products. Having attended last year, Hernando described the festival as an awesome event:
‘There are so many things for people to do — parents with kids and everyone else. I love the markets because most of the stalls feature handmade goods created by local people’.
Hernando ran her stall with Sue, who also agreed that these events are “absolutely fabulous” for giving local makers visibility. because they give the local community so much exposure. She said she’s not on Facebook, or Instagram, and she does not have a storefront. Sue liked that these events were family-oriented “there aren’t places that you can go to where the kids are sort of able to do stuff for free” she said.
Good food and great company. Photo by Samina Rakhshani
For Paul, who attended with his children Lily and Max, the festival has become a family ritual. Back for their fourth year, he said the atmosphere keeps them coming back. is what keeps them returning. “It’s a great space for the kids to interact and explore, and being a free event makes it easy for us to come down and enjoy it together,” he said. While he gravitates toward the live music, Max is drawn to Max loves the food stalls and Lily enjoys the art activities. For them, the Real Festival offers something special for every family member.
The food once again impressed festival-goers, with more than 20 food trucks lining the reserve and serving cuisines from around the world. Festival favourites such as Smoking Gringos and The Big Aloha returned, joined by newcomers like Retro Rolls Ice Creamery Café and Fluffy Crunch with its gourmet fairy floss.
Across three days, two evening programs on Friday and Saturday, and a daytime finale on Sunday the event drew large crowds who came to celebrate creativity, community and culture along the Nepean. From interactive art to riverside dining, the Real Festival once again proved why it has become a Penrith calendar staple, offering something for all ages and interests.
