Mr Griffin highlighted the pivotal role the festival will play in supporting local businesses, tourism, and the hospitality sector during the quieter winter months.
“Winter can be a challenging time for small businesses in our area, especially those in hospitality and tourism,” Mr Griffin said.
“RISE is a fantastic initiative that encourages locals and visitors alike to come out, explore Manly, and support the people who keep our community vibrant all year round.”
Running from 20 to 29 June, RISE will see Manly transformed with laneway activations, light installations, live music, food experiences and one-of-a-kind events delivered by local operators. From ski villages by the sea and sushi jazz nights to snorkelling tours and sustainable markets, the program offers something for everyone and every age.
“This is a real celebration of the innovation and resilience of Manly’s business community, and it is wonderful to see so many venues and operators putting their own spin on what winter in Manly can look like. Whether you come for the food, the music, the art, or the adventure, every visit helps keep our local businesses and operators going,” Mr Griffin said.
More than 20 local businesses will be participating, with standout events including:
- Manly Pavilion and Espy Precinct – A European ski village by the sea, with DJs, fire dancing, themed menus, ice sculptures and an inflatable igloo
- Cibaria Manly – A special lunch event with Italian chefs Alessandro Pavoni and Giovanni Pilu
- Felons Manly – Rise After Dark – Signature cocktails and live music in an intimate bar setting
- Henry G’s – A French-inspired winter menu with live jazz performances
- Q Station – Sauna and swim sessions, history tours, and a three-course meal with paired wines at Boilerhouse Kitchen and Bar
- 4 Pines Manly – Limited-release brews, mulled drinks, comfort food and live music
- Op for Change – Vintage fashion pop-up and community events celebrating sustainability and self-expression
- Sunset Sabi – Fusion food and DJs blending Japanese street style and sound
- Manly Food Co-operative – Local honey tastings and expert-led flavour pairings
- Noon Café – Early-morning DJ sessions to energise the start of your day
- Winona Wine – A one-off organic and sustainable wine tasting evening
- Ruby Lane Wholefoods – Breathwork and sound healing workshop followed by a nourishing wholefoods meal
- Fika Australia – A low-key night out with coffee and great music
- Ice Cold Classic Swim – A 1km swim followed by soup, with proceeds supporting those in need
- Snorkelling with Cuttlefish – Discover the hypnotic mating dance of the giant cuttlefish in an unforgettable underwater experience
- Desire Books & Records – Live folk and blues music, poetry readings, and acoustic storytelling in a cosy setting
- Shady’s Lane – Rise & Melt – Swiss-style raclette melted fresh and served street-style in a lively laneway
- Tenacious Bakehouse – A limited-edition Asian-style izakaya dinner experience
- Fairlight Rock Platform Tour – A guided eco-walk exploring Manly’s hidden marine life
There will also be a range of installations and community space activations, including:
- Manly Letters – Snap a photo with the iconic beachfront letters
- Glow Tunnel – A vivid lighting experience through the laneways
- Art Cube Live – Watch local artists create works in real time
- Manly Town Hall Illumination – A vibrant illumination of the heritage building
- Relax & Unwind Stage – Free live music on weekends
“With so many local businesses stepping up to make this festival special, now is the perfect time to come out and show your support. I extend my thanks to the Northern Beaches Council and the Manly Business Chamber for their efforts in delivering this standout event,” Mr Griffin said.
“I encourage you to bring your family, invite your friends, and back the local shops, venues, cafés and restaurants that do so much for our community.”
For further information and to explore the full program and timings, please visit www.risemanly.com.au.
Last modified: June 16, 2025
