If the sun's out, Manly Wharf is usually abuzz with activity. But in about a month's time, weekends at this waterfront spot will hum even louder, as the debut Surf + Sound festival descends over three consecutive weekends. Running from Friday, October 16–Sunday, November 1, a stacked live music program, free public art trail, food experiences and community programming combine. Where does the surfing come in? The final weekend culminates with the Surf + Sound Boardrider Battle at Manly Beach. Before that takes place, visitors will find themselves immersed in a live music program that leans into the coastal good times. Bringing together a host of admired and next-gen local and international artists, the lineup so far includes Skegss, The Whitlams, Skunkhour, The Beautiful Girls, GANGgajang, Winston Surfshirt and Mudhoney, with more to be revealed in the lead-up to the festival. Beyond the stage, Surf + Sound will also feature a full-fledged arts trail, with Sydney-raised, New York–based artist Jeremyville on curation duties. Expect three weeks of sculptures, inflatables, projections and large-scale installations for the community to explore. With this free, accessible outdoor gallery celebrating local artistry on a serious scale, the concept is all about connecting people to the community's golden beaches. Across the festival's dates, Manly Wharf's dining scene will also host the festival's debut culinary program, which is set to include a dedicated food village. While the details are yet to be announced, visitors can look forward to guest appearances from some of Australia's leading chefs, a sharp selection of vendors and market stalls, and a series of fascinating dining experiences that feel right at home wharfside. "Manly has always had a unique energy and cultural vibrancy, and Surf + Sound is about building on that," says Surf + Sound Co-Founder Adam Flaskas, who dreamt up the festival's concept alongside five friends. "For us, it's about contributing to the culture of Manly and creating a festival that feels authentic to the place, the people and the community that make it so special." With this in mind, the festival send-off is happening amongst the waves, with the Surf + Sound Boardrider Battle held from Saturday, October 31–Sunday, November 1. Spearheaded by World Champion Joel Parkinson, teams in men's open, women's and under-18 categories will compete for a major prize. It's an appropriate way to round out the whole festival, given that Manly Beach hosted Australia's first surf contest in 1964. Surf + Sound is happening across three consecutive weekends at Manly Wharf and surrounds from Friday, October 16–Sunday, November 1. Head to the website for more information. Like what you see? Subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter to get stories just like these straight to your inbox. Images: Life Without Andy.