Hive Festival and Botanical Buggy Tours: What's On in Wollongong Today

A Creative Wednesday in the Illawarra

Good morning, Wollongong! It is Wednesday, 21 January 2026, and the city is brimming with activity for residents and visitors alike. Whether you are looking to entertain the kids during the final stretch of the school holidays or seeking some mid-week cultural enrichment, today’s local schedule offers a diverse range of exhibitions, workshops, and community activities.

Creative Fun at the Hive Festival

Today marks a major highlight at the Wollongong Art Gallery with the continuation of the Hive Festival. This free, family-friendly event is designed to celebrate creativity through play. A featured highlight today is the 'Plushie Pals' Drop-in Workshop, running from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Participants can enjoy hands-on crafting to create their own soft plush companions.

While at the gallery, visitors can also explore the 'Set States' exhibition by artist Kate Mitchell. This immersive display features performance videos that explore emotional transformation. The energy of the exhibition flows directly into the festival activities, making it a perfect spot for families to spend the day exploring art in a tactile and engaging way.

Garden Discovery Buggy Tour

For those who prefer the outdoors, the Wollongong Botanic Garden is hosting a Garden Discovery Buggy Tour starting at 10:00 AM. This is an excellent opportunity to explore the lush collections of the garden without the heavy walking, making it ideal for seniors or those with limited mobility. Guided by knowledgeable staff, the tour offers insights into the unique flora and the history of the Murphy’s Avenue site.

Literature and Insight at Wollongong Library

Wollongong City Libraries are currently a hub for both community awareness and bargain hunters. At the central Wollongong Library on Burelli Street, you can visit the 'Voices of Insight' photographic exhibition. This moving display features de-identified photographs and stories regarding lived experiences of adversity, providing a powerful space for reflection.

Additionally, the annual Summer Book Sale is in full swing today across all seven library branches. Running through to January 23, this is a prime opportunity to browse hundreds of pre-loved titles and pick up a summer read for just a few dollars. The sale includes everything from children's picture books to contemporary fiction and non-fiction.

On the Big Screen

If you are looking to escape the afternoon heat, local cinemas have a packed schedule today. HOYTS Warrawong is screening the blockbuster 'Avatar: Fire and Ash' alongside family favorites like 'Zootopia 2.' Meanwhile, over at Event Cinemas Shellharbour, fans of live performance can catch a special screening of 'SIX The Musical Live,' bringing the West End energy to the big screen at 3:00 PM and 8:30 PM. Other notable screenings today include the historical drama 'The Choral' and the anticipated thriller '28 Years Later: The Bone Temple.'