Hosted by Cessnock City Council and Cessnock Performing Arts Centre, the event starts at 6.30pm when flaming sculptures, fiery street performances, and artistic light shows will set the town aglow.

The event will follow the highly successful format from 2012, which was nominated in three categories – festivals and events, young people and the arts and creative community engagement – at the Local Government Arts and Culture Awards.

It will offer the chance for people to get involved in pre-event workshops, and expanded opportunities to engage with council departments and services at the event.

Free lantern making workshops will be held the end of August.

Attendees are welcome to bring a picnic hamper and some comfy chairs to settle in for the evening of entertainment – including live music and theatrical performances.

Food and hot beverages will be available.

Call the performing arts centre on 4990 7134 for more information.