It’s an unlikely combination, but it’s all part of the Hunter’s big weekend of fun, with major events set to attract thousands and boost tourism stocks across the region.

The biggest drawcard, Midnight Oil, is expected to win over scores of adoring fans on Saturday when the Aussie rock gods take to the stage at Hope Estate for the sold-out concert.

Still in wine country, the Pokolbin Pride festival is anticipated to attract hundreds on both Saturday and Sunday to celebrate diversity alongside great wine, food and music.

The LBTIQ festival is expected to attract many more attendees than last year’s debut event as spectators rally in support of a Yes vote in the same-sex marriage survey.

“It's also about solidarity during this difficult time, with so many of our community suffering from insecurity, anxiety and depression as their long-term relationships and hopes for acceptance and love are put to the test in such a brutal way,” organiser Matty Kerr told Fairfax Media.

“It's also about telling the world that Australia's most popular regional wedding venue, the Hunter Valley, is open for business and ready and waiting for a Yes result.”

Meanwhile, Denman will get down and dirty on Saturday for the annual pig races in support of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter.

Starting at 10am at the football grounds, the thoroughbred “racing” pigs will burst out of the gates in a bid to be the first to pop their snout in a bowl of milk at the finish line.

“People who attend the day will have an absolute ball,” Westpac Rescue Denman Support Group secretary Merry Freeman said, adding that last year’s event raised more than $20,000.

“I’d love to see 2000 people come through the gates [this weekend]. Hopefully, the weather gods will smile down on us.”

In nearby Muswellbrook, the Upper Hunter Brick Show will have little kids – and big kids – entertained with more than 30 Lego exhibitors and a free build area. That event begins begins at 10am on Sunday at St James Primary School.

The Muswellbrook Charity Rodeo will also have crowds entertained across the weekend, with festivities kicking off at 10am on Saturday and Sunday.

While in that long neck of the woods, spectators can head to Muswellbrook’s Bottoms Up craft beer festival on Saturday.

In Singleton, hundreds are expected for the Cancer Council’s Relay for Life, held at the SIngleton Showground on Saturday and Sunday, raising funds for cancer research and support.

Murrurundi also plays host to the Model Train Festival in various locations throughout the town on both days this weekend.