Camden’s history will be brought to life through stories, images, music, art and activities when Unlock Camden Heritage Festival returns this weekend.
Unlock Camden Heritage Festival will take over John Street, Camden, including Alan Baker Art Gallery, Camden Library and Camden Museum on Saturday 5 September, 10am-2pm. It invites residents and visitors to step back in time and discover some of Camden’s hidden gems and will include:
LOCATION | WHAT’S ON | TIME |
Camden Library | · Display and engagement with Camden Area Family History Society and Camden Museum | 10am-2pm |
| · Information stalls and local engagement · Artist demonstration | 10am-2pm |
| · Plant giveaway · Community barbeque | 10am-2pm |
| · Unlock Camden Guided Walking Tour hosted by Dr Ian Willis OAM | 11am |
| · Unlock Camden Guided Walking Tour hosted by Laura Jane Aulsebrook | 1pm |
Camden Museum | · Display of Camden Museum’s collection of historic objects, photographs and archives | 10am-2pm |
Alan Baker Art Gallery
| · Children’s activity · Art displays · Historic displays and vintage cut outs · Vintage car displays · Cakes and handmade products · Schools’ engagement, competition to be on display | 10am-2pm |
Camden Town Centre | · Music by local musicians · Open Day at Dr Crookston’s House and St Johns · Spirit of Camden – music, dancing and cars · Hidden Gems Kerbside Exhibition | 10am-2pm |
Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, said Unlock Camden was an opportunity for the community to discover the stories behind the places, people and moments that have helped shape the Camden we know today.
“Camden has a story around every corner and Unlock Camden is the perfect opportunity to open the door to our past and discover the stories that make our community so special,” she said.
“There will be lots of ways to uncover something new, from historic buildings and vintage cars to old photographs, local stories, music and art. You never know what you might discover!
“It’s a terrific time of year because Unlock Camden forms part of Camden’s History Week program, running from Saturday 5 to Sunday 13 September, providing even more opportunities to explore Camden’s heritage.”
Part of the festival will see a section of John Street closed to traffic, bringing the celebrations into the heart of Camden and creating space for art markets, activities, entertainment and community connections.
Community members are encouraged to share their own Camden stories and memories using #mycamdenstory and discover how Camden has changed over time with #thenandnow
For more information, the full program and to register for any of the guided tours, visit camden.nsw.gov.au/strategic-planning/heritage-planning/unlock-camden-2025
