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Sunrise over Sydney Harbour and the Sydney Opera House

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Things to do in 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.

Explore the region

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.

Listings across Balmain, Chatswood, Darling Harbour, Darlinghurst, Glebe, Liverpool, Manly, Marrickville, Newtown, Paddington, Parramatta, Penrith, Surry Hills, Sydney, Sydney Olympic Park, The Rocks.

Upcoming events

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

Classes & Workshops

DIY Eyewear | Eyeglasses, Sunglasses Making Workshop

Sun, 25 Oct, 10:00 am AEDT

Surry Hills · From $330

The DIY Eyewear Making Workshop at Lunettes Art Lab offers a unique hands-on experience for anyone interested in design, craftsmanship and self-expression. Visitors will design and craft their own eyewear frames from scratch in a cozy, creative studio in Surry Hills. Guided by Australia's only eyewear maker certified by MOF Lunetier from France, guests use real tools and materials to cut, shape and finish a custom frame that suits their face and style. From choosing the colour to adding blue light or sunglass lenses, every step is personal. Participants can also create a matching ring or pendant using leftover acetate as a meaningful keepsake. This one-day workshop suits individuals, couples or small groups looking for an inspiring, creative activity. No prior experience is needed — just curiosity and a love of design. Whether you leave with a bespoke pair of glasses or simply the memory of creating something from your own hands, this is an experience unlike any other in Australia's eyewear scene.

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Theatre & Shows

The Curious World of Pamela Allen

Sun, 25 Oct, 10:00 am AEDT

Sydney · Free admission

Step into the whimsical world of beloved author and illustrator Pamela Allen at the State Library of NSW. With timeless classics like Mr Archimedes' Bath, Mr McGee and Alexander's Outing, Pamela Allen has captured the hearts of readers for more than 40 years. Her much-loved stories come to life in this playful, interactive exhibition for the whole family. Play in Mr McGee's tree, flip through giant pages of Bertie and the Bear, and make a splash with the animals from Who Sank the Boat? Pop on a favourite character's hat and discover cosy reading nooks and secret hidey-holes along the way. Allen's deceptively simple stories — full of rhythm, repetition and irresistible illustrations — continue to delight readers young and old, with 31 of her titles still in print today. See how her distinctive visual style evolved through early character sketches, original watercolours, and rarely seen artworks from lesser-known books, drawn from her remarkable archive held in the Library's collection.

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Theatre & Shows

Nolan: Origins at Art Gallery of New South Wales

Sun, 25 Oct, 10:00 am AEDT

Sydney · Free admission

A journey through the landscapes and stories of iconic Australian artist Sidney Nolan. Experience the astounding creativity and poetic power of Sidney Nolan's art in this in-depth survey of the artist's formative years in Australia. From indelible visions of the outlaw Ned Kelly to epic portrayals of Central Australia, Nolan redefined perceptions of place and nation in Australia's cultural imagination. Including his famous series of paintings on bushranger Ned Kelly (1946–47), the exhibition brings together over 150 major works produced before Nolan relocated to the United Kingdom in 1953 – years in which he forged a reputation as one of this country's most distinctive modernist artists. Nolan: Origins examines the artist's engagement with the places he painted as he evolved his singular, enigmatic visual language, including St Kilda, Wimmera, K'gari (also known as Fraser Island), Central Australia and the landscapes of Ned Kelly's story in north-eastern Victoria. The exhibition also tells of how Nolan interrogated the idea of 'Australia', invoking a sense of place through myths, histories, people and creatures imbued with his own personal inner meanings. Bundle with an Australian Art Stories Tour or lunch at Crafted by Matt Moran or MOD Dining for the most immersive experience at Art Gallery of New South Wales.

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Theatre & Shows

Willoughby Emerging Art Prize

Sun, 25 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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Food & Drink

Pink Spring High Tea, Shangri-La Sydney

Sun, 25 Oct, 11:00 am AEDT

The Rocks · Check price with organiser

This spring, enjoy an exquisitely crafted Pink High Tea, featuring a beautiful selection of sweet and savoury creations, in support of the National Breast Cancer Foundation. Delicious savouries are precursors to the daintiest desserts with pink flourishes: think raspberry, lychee and rose gateau and blueberry and coconut tart with coconut Chantilly, frangipane and sesame sablé. Delight in blushing-pink scones of the fluffiest sort, paired with dollops of cream, berry jam, and Sydney's finest view: the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge sparkle as you enjoy this sweetest of settings. In luxurious surrounds, sip the finest Australian tea, flutes of champagne, sparkling wine or inventive cocktails to make your afternoon that little bit extra special. From each and every Pink Spring High Tea, AUD 5 will be donated to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

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Food & Drink

Month of Lallier at The Dry Dock

Sun, 25 Oct, 12:00 pm AEDT

Balmain · Free admission

This October, The Dry Dock will be celebrating spring and Champagne, with Lallier taking over the venue's by-the-glass and bottle pour for the month. With World Champagne Day occuring in October, it's a lovely opportunity to enjoy premium Champagne at a particularly accessible price. Champagne is already a big part of the experience at The Dry Dock, with the month-long Lallier offer joining one of Sydney's most extensive pub wine lists, with more than 500 wines and 49 available by the glass.

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Food & Drink

Ripple Social Club

Sun, 25 Oct, 12:00 pm AEDT

Surry Hills · Check price with organiser

They're on a mission to make Sydney social through in real life curated events! Everything from warehouse jazz nights to bouquet making picnics. Bring friends or come solo, everyone's welcome.

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Food & Drink

Grandparents Day Harbour View Long Lunch

Sun, 25 Oct, 12:00 pm AEDT

Sydney · Free admission

Join them for their Grandparents' Day Harbour View Long Lunch on Sydney Harbour and show all the Grandparents and grandparent figures in your life just how much you appreciate everything they do. With a 3-course à la carte lunch, a discounted Children's Menu for kids under 16 years, and up to three spectacular hours on Sydney Harbour, everyone will be captivated, sated and celebrated! Departing from Darling Harbour King St Wharf one and Circular Quay Wharf six.

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Classes & Workshops

Ceramic Paint and Sip Classes in Sydney

Sun, 25 Oct, 2:00 pm AEDT

Darlinghurst · From $89

Explore your artistic abilities at the Art Masterclass in Sydney! Ready to unleash your creativity? Reserve your spot for the upcoming Paint and Sip workshop. Engage in a unique experience filled with creation, laughter, sipping, and enjoyment! The workshops encourage you to bring your preferred bottle of wine. Sip while you paint, and let each brushstroke on the ceramic be guided by your relaxed and joyful spirit. Whether you're a seasoned painter or a complete beginner, everyone is welcome to join the fun. The expert instructors will lead you through each step, ensuring you produce a masterpiece you can be proud of, regardless of your skill level. Searching for a distinctive date night or an unforgettable outing with friends? The Paint and Sip workshops offer the perfect setting. Revel in good company, excellent wine, and leave with a beautiful painting crafted by you!

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Classes & Workshops

Turkish Lamp Workshop in Sydney

Sun, 25 Oct, 2:00 pm AEDT

Darlinghurst · From $89

You are invited to an extraordinary workshop that will take you on an unforgettable journey into the vibrant and dazzling world of handmade Turkish lamps. Whether you're just starting out or already an artist, their expert instructors will help you enhance your skills and discover new ones that might spark your interest. If you're ready to take the next step, register now at Art Masterclass! Art Masterclass is a premier boutique art studio in Sydney, offering a mix of traditional craft workshops. They are Australia's first workshop to teach the art of traditional Turkish lamp making. In this 2.5-hour session, you'll learn techniques from this 500-year-old ancient craft. You'll practice combining geometric patterns and tiling (tesserae) techniques. Using your chosen geometric template, you'll be guided to create your very own traditional Turkish Mosaic Table Lamp! All workshops include complimentary Turkish delight and Apple tea. Skills to design and create your own mosaic lamp Glass painting and mosaic techniques Proper use of materials and tools Color harmony and aesthetic design.

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Live Music & Concerts

Cellists of The Metropolitan Orchestra

Sun, 25 Oct, 3:00 pm AEDT

Balmain · From $30

The renowned Eight Cellists of The Metropolitan Orchestra return to the beautifully updated Balmain Town Hall for a unique performance. This intimate afternoon chamber concert will see these outstanding musicians deliver their refreshing take on a wide range of music from classic masterworks to some of the best-known pop songs, all re-orchestrated to accentuate the beautiful sounds of the cello. The duration of the show is approximately 60 minutes with no interval. Proudly supported by Inner West Council.

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Live Music & Concerts

My Fair Lady

Sun, 25 Oct, 3:00 pm AEDT

Sydney · From $89

Lerner and Loewe's My Fair Lady is now playing at the Sydney Opera House- celebrating 70 years since its glorious Broadway debut. This lavish recreation is based on the 2016 Australian production directed by Julie Andrews, who was catapulted into stardom when she originated the role of Eliza Doolittle, an irrepressible Cockney flower girl who transforms into a lady of society. A heartwarming story of identity and change, My Fair Lady brims with razor sharp wit, unforgettable characters, and a stunning score including 'Wouldn't It Be Loverly?', 'I Could Have Danced All Night' and 'Get Me to the Church on Time'. From its groundbreaking Broadway debut to the iconic Oscar‑winning film, My Fair Lady remains one of the world's most enduring and loved musical treasures.

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Attractions and places to visit

91 places in this selection. Opening hours, access and admission vary; check the place details.

The Strand Arcade inside view of the atrium

Image: Vicinity Centres

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

The Strand Arcade

Sydney

Established in 1891, the Strand Arcade is a premium retail destination located in the heart of Sydney's CBD between Pitt Street Mall and George Street. It is an important heritage landmark within Sydney and the only Victorian shopping arcade remaining in its original form today. The Strand Arcade remains a majestic beauty in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the city, bringing together a curation of designers and makers for shoppers with an eye for detail. Sydney's home of craftsmanship and Australian designers, the Strand Arcade features more than 65 specialty stores including well-known designer labels, jewellers, cafes and unique gift shops. Some of the retailers are well known Sydney institutions, with many having traded in the Arcade for decades, including The Nut Shop, Strand Hatters, Raphael Jewellers and Victoria & Albert Antiques.

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Photo © James Horan for Museums of History NSW

Image: Photo © James Horan for Museums of History NSW

Galleries, Museums and Collections

School Holiday Activities - Museums of History NSW

Sydney

Explore Museums of History NSW sites these school holidays with creative workshops at Vaucluse House, Rouse Hill Estate and Elizabeth Farm. Plus enjoy free family friendly drop-in activities throughout the school holidays. You can also enjoy free drop-in activities across their museums including Hyde Park Barracks, the Museum of Sydney, Elizabeth Farm, Vaucluse House and the Justice and Police Museum. Visit the website for more information.

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Welcome to Ice Break Escape Room, your adventure starts here

Image: Ice Break Escape Room

Entertainment Venues

Ice Break Escape Room

Sydney

Ice Break Escape Room is one of Sydney CBD's largest escape room venues, featuring seven uniquely themed rooms across two floors on George Street. Each room delivers a different adventure, from the pulse-racing horror of Redemption; complete with live actors, to the wizard fantasy of Darkness Reborn and the detective thriller Eyes of Argos. What sets Ice Break apart is the combination of high-tech puzzle mechanics, richly detailed set design, and compelling storylines that draw players deep into every scenario. Rooms are designed to encourage genuine teamwork, with puzzles that give every member of the group a chance to contribute. Sessions run for 60 to 80 minutes and suit groups of all sizes, from couples and families to corporate teams of up to 48 people. Multiple rooms can run simultaneously, making it an ideal venue for team-building events and large group celebrations. A three-time TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice winner, Ice Break is consistently praised by visitors for its immersive atmosphere, creative puzzles, and friendly, attentive game masters.

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The Mint

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

The Mint

Sydney

The Mint consists of two structures – the Mint offices and the coining factory – located in the most important civic precinct of Sydney. The Mint offices building on Macquarie Street has been a major element in the streetscape of Sydney for almost 200 years: the coining factory, hidden from view, is less well known. Both these buildings are associated with major events in the history of New South Wales and are of exceptional heritage significance. The Mint offices were constructed between 1811 and 1816 as the south wing of the General Hospital and are one of the oldest surviving buildings in central Sydney. It is also the earliest example of classical architectural detailing in Australia and contains much evidence of colonial building techniques from the convict period. The coining factory represents a major event in the social, economic and political history of New South Wales – the discovery of gold. Built in 1854–1855 in response to the gold rush, the buildings were constructed using imported prefabricated components and are rich in evidence of minting processes and machinery. Explore the rooms and hallways where colonial surgeons and apothecaries once lived and examine the archaeological remains of the Mint in the courtyard and rear buildings, reminders of the busy industrial complex that operated here for many decades.

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College Street Crosswalk

Landmarks and Buildings

College Street Crosswalk

Sydney

Stand in the spot where Alexander's adventure begins in Pamela Allen's classic children's book 'Alexander's Outing'. The corner of College Street and Prince Albert Road is a busy intersection, teeming with traffic and pedestrians, so make sure you don't get lost like Alexander as you continue on your family adventure inspired by the State Library's 'The Curious World of Pamela Allen' exhibition. To the northeast is the Registrar General's Building, and on the southeast corner is the beautiful Saint Mary's Cathedral. To the west lies Hyde Park, Australia's oldest parkland, where you will find the Archibald Memorial Fountain.

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Quiz Room Group Fun

Image: Quiz Room

Amusement and Theme Parks

Quiz Room Sydney

Sydney

The new buzz in town! Hit the buzzer on a real-life game show that's better than TV! Australia's first immersive trivia-style quiz where anyone can win - it's not just what you know, it's how you play the game. Gather your wits and your team and step on set with all the lights, music and action you see on TV. Anything can happen until the last second! Be prepared for crazy fun, a few surprises and plenty of laughs. With games for all ages from 8 plus, choose from two excing trivia concepts - the Quiz or the Music Quiz. The Quiz – our original one-of-a-kind trivia game packed with a wide range of themes, rules that change every round and a variety of trump cards and traps you can set The Music Quiz – do you prefer music trivia? Wait until you try the Music Quiz! If you can name that tune, if you can hit that note, just burst into song and get buzzing. Quiz Room Kids – an adapted version of our original quiz for kids aged 8 to 12. They have three Quiz Rooms with six podiums each. At each podium, you can play solo or as a team of two or three – up to 18 people per Quiz Room and 54 in total!

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Vortex Tunnel

Image: MOI Sydney Pty Ltd

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Museum of Illusions Sydney

Sydney

A mind-bending experience in Sydney. Catch a glitch in reality at one of Sydney's most mind-bending attractions! Museum of Illusions is a surreal, playful stop where perception shifts and you realise that the impossible is just misunderstood. It's a fully immersive experience for visitors of all ages, where optical illusions meet the science behind how we see the world. Located in the heart of the city, it brings the celebrated phenomenon to Australia, blending education and entertainment into a hands-on adventure! Expect gravity-defying spaces, infinity mirrors, holograms, vortex tunnels and giant kaleidoscopes – each one designed to spark curiosity and be shared. With more than 70 exhibits, there's plenty to discover. Walk through a tilted room or a spinning tunnel, shrink or grow in an instant, and defy gravity in an environment that challenges what you think is real. Sydney-specific installations add a local twist, including a Reversed Room inspired by an Aussie pub with a pool table, a Building Illusion representing the iconic Queen Victoria Building interior, and the interactive 'Following Eyes' exhibit, a nod to the city's beach culture. Since opening, Museum of Illusions Sydney has become a popular stop for visitors looking for something out of the ordinary. It's well-suited to families, groups, and anyone keen to experience a different side of the city: interactive, surprising and highly photogenic.

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Storytelling Magic

Image: Bruce Glen

Entertainment Venues

The Gentleman Magician's Magical Soirée

Sydney

Step into a world of wonder at The Gentleman Magician's Magical Soirée. Now in its 10th year, Bruce Glen: The Gentleman Magician enchants guests with a world class magic show entwined with stories of conjurors and con men amid the Art Deco elegance of Castlereagh Boutique Hotel. For adults — but not necessarily grown-ups. Bookings essential. The dress code is smart casual/ cocktail dress.

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Commonwealth Bank

Landmarks and Buildings

Commonwealth Bank (Government Savings Bank of NSW)

Sydney

This imposing Beaux-Arts neoclassical bank designed by Ross & Rowe was originally the headquarters of the Government Savings Bank of NSW. Construction began in 1925 and the building opened in 1928. The Wunderlich firm was responsible for much of the exterior and interior decoration, and when it opened it was claimed to be the world's largest banking chamber. The Wunderlich company was one of Australia's most significant building companies.

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Walter Liberty Vernon Blue Plaque edit

Image: Heritage NSW

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Walter Liberty Vernon Blue Plaque

Sydney

Visitors can discover the stories behind the people, places and events that have helped shape NSW - where the history happened. A Blue Plaque visit offers more than sightseeing. It creates a direct connection between place and story, turning everyday locations into places of discovery. Each plaque reveals a unique piece of history, encouraging visitors to explore local areas from a new perspective and uncover stories they may never have known. This blue plaque commemorates Walter Liberty Vernon who is one of Australia's most important architects, responsible for numerous iconic Sydney buildings. Visit the blue plaque at Registrar General's Building, 1 Prince Albert Road, Sydney NSW 2000 and scan the QR code there to learn more.

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Alice in Puzzleland

Image: Escape Hunt

Entertainment Venues

Escape Hunt Sydney

Sydney

Sydney's most exciting escape room experience. The pressure’s on, the clock’s ticking, the adrenaline’s pumping. Escape Hunt isn’t something you watch, it’s something you experience from the heart of the action. After the buzz of Escape Hunt, other entertainment just feels flat. Step into a new world and play one of their brilliantly-themed escape games. Once the door slams shut, work together to solve a series of fiendishly clever clues. You and your team of two to five players (ages seven and above) have just one hour of pulse-racing excitement to win your freedom. You can then celebrate your escape in their fully licensed lounge and enjoy a complimentary photo shoot. Incredible fun for families, friends, school groups and corporate team building. With challenges for sleuths of all ages and backgrounds, Escape Hunt is designed to suit anyone with a penchant for puzzles and a sense of fun. If you get stuck, you can call on a game master for help, and if you have a bigger group, you can reserve two identical rooms to see who can solve the mystery first.

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Museum of Illusions

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Museum of Illusions

Sydney

Museum of Illusions, the world's largest and fastest-growing chain of private museums, will make its Australian debut this summer with the opening of Museum of Illusions Sydney — an interactive world where the impossible becomes possible and curiosity knows no bounds. Originally launched in Zagreb, Croatia in 2015. Tenyears later, Museum of Illusions now operates in more than 60 locations across 28 countries, captivating millions of guests every year. Each location is guided by one purpose: to create memorable, magical experiences that leave visitors smiling long after they leave. Each Museum of Illusions location around the globe takes inspiration from its surroundings — and Sydney is no exception.

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