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Free things to do — Sydney

Find things to do in Sydney. Explore local events, attractions, markets and family activities, with dates, places and prices.

Public listings checked 25/10/2026. Dates use each event’s local time. Check organiser details before travelling.

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Find things to do across Sydney, including inner-city neighbourhoods, beaches and destinations such as Parramatta and Penrith. The Blue Mountains, Central Coast and Wollongong are separate trips.

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Free things to do

80 matching events listed in the next 60 days. Admission prices are shown where supplied.

Festivals & Fairs

Daily Service of Remembrance

Mon, 26 Oct, 10:55 am AEDT

Sydney · Free admission

At 11.00am each day, the Anzac Memorial pauses for a Service of Remembrance. Visitors are invited to participate in this moving service with the recitation of the Ode and the sounding of the Last Post and Rouse after one minute of silent contemplation. The galaxy of golden stars adorning the Memorial's dome represents the men and women of NSW who embarked for overseas service during the Great War (1914–18). All visitors to the Memorial are welcome to take a commemorative star bearing the name of an Australian serviceman or woman killed on active service, or a veteran who has since passed away, and cast it into the Well of Contemplation following a moment of reflection. This personal tribute was designed to reflect the original intention of the stars that illuminate the Memorial's dome. Stars that are released into the Well are collected and kept on site until they are cremated at Rookwood Cemetery. The ashes are carried on annual pilgrimages by the Premier's Anzac Memorial Scholars to significant sites associated with Australian military history.

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Festivals & Fairs

Public Tour of NSW Parliament

Mon, 26 Oct, 1:30 pm AEDT

Sydney · Free admission

Take a free tour of NSW Parliament House! A range of programs and events are scheduled throughout the year for the public to engage with the workings of the parliament. These events are designed for families and adults, and can offer the opportunity to view the chambers in session, meet with Members, and on non-sitting days​ to sit in the chambers. Whether you come with family, friends, or on your own, a free tour of NSW Parliament House will always surprise you. Join them every Monday and non-sitting Fridays at 1:30pm (more often during school holidays) for a free guided tour and step back in time into one of Sydney's oldest buildings. While walk-ins are always welcome, they recommend that you book in advance to obtain your preferred date and time slot. Tours take approximately one hour. For further information, contact the Tours Officer.

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Theatre & Shows

Willoughby Emerging Art Prize

Wed, 28 Oct, 11:00 am AEDT

Chatswood · Free admission

After almost 20 years, the Willoughby Art Prize returns in 2026 as the Willoughby Emerging Art Prize, celebrating the next generation of Australian artists and contemporary creative practice. Originally established in 1983 and paused in 2007 during the construction of The Concourse, the prize marks a renewed commitment by Willoughby City Council to supporting emerging artists. The exhibition brings together a diverse selection of works across a range of disciplines, showcasing fresh perspectives, creative talent and the exciting practices shaping Australia's emerging art scene. With a total prize pool of AUD15,000, generously supported by the Civic Place Trust, the prize includes AUD10,000 for First Prize and AUD5,000 for Second Prize. The 2026 prize is judged by artists and curators Consuelo Cavaniglia and Monica Rani Rudhar. Come and discover the finalists, explore new artistic perspectives and celebrate the return of this much-loved Willoughby arts initiative.

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Theatre & Shows

Art After Hours

Wed, 28 Oct, 5:00 pm AEDT

Sydney · Free admission

Every Wednesday night, wander through the Art Gallery after hours and discover new art and old favourites in the latest exhibitions and collection displays. Join a guided tour, and enjoy a drink or a bite to eat in the cafe. A courtesy bus runs every 20 minutes from 6 pm until closing from the Art Gallery to various locations in the city close to public transport.

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Classes & Workshops

Lorrie Graham in conversation

Wed, 28 Oct, 6:00 pm AEDT

Sydney · Free admission

Acclaimed photojournalists Lorrie Graham and Mike Bowers look back on the people, stories and photographs that have defined Lorrie's career. Together, they'll explore Lorrie's extraordinary journey, from picking up her first camera in the 1960s and becoming the first female photography cadet at The Sydney Morning Herald in the 1970s, to her groundbreaking work across Australia and internationally in the decades that followed. They'll also discuss her lasting legacy, with her photographic collections now held in major institutions across Australia. Presented in connection with the Library's exhibition Lorrie Graham: Photojournalist, this event shares the stories behind some of Lorrie Graham's most iconic images and discusses the process of bringing her work together for both the exhibition and her new book.

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Food & Drink

Wednesday Night Trivia at The Arms Hotel

Wed, 28 Oct, 7:00 pm AEDT

Penrith · Free admission

Round up your smartest mates — or at least the ones who confidently pretend to know the answer — grab a drink and settle in for a classic midweek trivia night in the heart of Penrith. Come down early, grab a pub feed and get the team ready before the questions kick off.

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Live Music & Concerts

Jazz Night at Ester

Fri, 30 Oct, 6:30 pm AEDT

Marrickville · Free admission

Ester Jazz Nights have quickly become a Marrickville institution, and by popular demand they now grace the calendar every Friday evening. Settle in with the McMartini Meal — a choice of burger (including a vegetarian option) paired with a perfectly mixed martini — while local band the Squares fill the distillery with swinging live jazz. The atmosphere is equal parts easygoing and electric, where walk-ins are always welcome, though the best seats are swiftly spoken for. To guarantee your place among the rhythm, book ahead and make Ester Distillery your Friday night tradition.

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Live Music & Concerts

Chapel Row Jazz at Castlereagh Boutique Hotel

Fri, 30 Oct, 7:00 pm AEDT

Sydney · Free admission

Hosted by George Holahan Cantwell, Chapel Row Jazz brings a rotating lineup of Sydney's emerging jazz musicians to the Reagh Bar every Friday night. A Sydney-based jazz pianist, vocalist and composer, George performs regularly across the city and is currently studying Jazz Performance at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. Each week, he curates a different quartet featuring some of Sydney's most exciting young players — Conservatorium musicians, award-winning instrumentalists and performers active across the city's jazz and live music scene. Expect jazz standards, modern arrangements, sharp improvisation and the spontaneous moments that only happen live. With a different lineup each week, no two Fridays sound the same. It's less a formal concert, more a Friday night session: talented young musicians playing with passion, a crowd there for the vibe, and a heritage bar that feels like a hidden jazz club in the middle of the city. Free entry. No bookings required.

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Live Music & Concerts

Foundation Day - Parramatta

Sat, 31 Oct, 9:00 am AEDT

Parramatta · Free admission

Discover Parramatta's history and enjoy a day of free family-friendly activities, tours, workshops, live music and more at Hambledon Cottage. Come dressed in your best vintage or heritage-inspired outfit and add an extra touch of charm to a fun and fascinating day out for all ages! Enjoy guided heritage tours and expert talks, animal farm and kids' games, face painting and creative workshops, live music and roaming performers, food and market stalls Whether you're a history enthusiast, a curious local, or looking for a fun day out with the family, Foundation Day offers something for everyone.

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Markets & Expos

Glebe Markets

Sat, 31 Oct, 10:00 am AEDT

Glebe · Free admission

The Glebe Markets is one of Sydney's most popular and iconic markets that has been running for over 30 years. A must-visit, the Glebe Markets has 200 stalls to shop and browse from and is a located in the heart of Glebe at the Glebe Public School. Renown for its wonderful diverse and eclectic mix of stalls with everything from local Australian fashion designers, hand-made jewellery, homewares & crafts by local artisans, original art and an extensive line up of vintage and pre-loved fashion along with amazing fresh food from around the globe. You'll find people hanging-out with friends for the great vibes, great finds and live entertainment.

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Food & Drink

Sydney Harbour Jazz Lunch Cruise

Sat, 31 Oct, 12:30 pm AEDT

Sydney · Free admission

What better way to enjoy lunch time than on Sydney Harbour? Come aboard and sway to the rhythms of live jazz and easy-listening pop as you indulge in a delicious 3-course seafood and carvery lunch followed by a selection of delicious cakes, fresh seasonal fruit, coffee and tea. Enjoy a glass of bubbly from the bar and let time pass you by as you embrace the spectacular harbour views! This luncheon cruise has been a Sydney favourite with locals and tourists alike for over 30 years, combining restaurant style dining and unforgettable views. A great way to spend an afternoon with friends and family, entertain overseas guests or celebrate a special occasion. This is undoubtedly Sydney's best value lunch cruise. Inclusions: 3 hour lunch cruise on spectacular Sydney Harbour Seafood and Carvery three course lunch Live music from talented artists as you dine Allocated seating Spacious indoor and outdoor decks for panoramic views Licensed bar - bar packages available Prizes and Giveaways

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Food & Drink

Sydney Harbour Seafood and Carvery Lunch Cruise

Sat, 31 Oct, 12:30 pm AEDT

Darling Harbour · Free admission

There is no place on earth that compares to Sydney Harbour with a Seafood and Carvery Lunch Cruise. It's the perfect way to combine spectacular views with sensational food and entertainment. The lunch cruise has been a Sydney favourite with locals and tourists for over 30 years! Providing restaurant style dining with a delicious three course lunch, premium beverage options, live music and the longest cruising route on the Sydney Harbour, this is undoubtedly one of Sydney's most popular lunch cruises! Inclusions: Three hour lunch cruise Live jazz music Seafood and carvery lunch Delicious dessert Fully licensed bar - packages available Prizes and giveaways Discounts for large group bookings

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Tourism listings supplied by the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse. Listings retain their existing detail URLs.