If you’re looking for an excuse to get out of the house this weekend, Sydney has you covered. From winter festivals and live sport to bustling markets and family friendly attractions, there’s plenty happening across the city, no matter how you like to spend your days.
Whether you’re planning a catch up with friends, entertaining the kids or simply looking for something different to do, here are some of the best What’s on in Sydney this weekend.
Soak up the atmosphere at Bondi Festival
Winter and Bondi might not seem like the obvious combination, but that’s exactly what makes Bondi Festival so popular. The annual celebration transforms the beachside suburb with live performances, comedy, music, art installations and the much loved ice skating rink overlooking Bondi Beach.
Even if you don’t lace up the skates, it’s worth heading over to enjoy the festival atmosphere and grab a bite to eat at one of the nearby cafés or restaurants.
Experience NAIDOC Week celebrations
Communities across Sydney are coming together to celebrate NAIDOC Week with cultural performances, community events, exhibitions and family activities recognising the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Many events are free to attend, making it a meaningful way to spend part of your weekend while learning more about Australia’s First Nations cultures.
Cheer on the Wallabies
Sports fans can look forward to a huge night at Allianz Stadium as the Wallabies take on Ireland in a blockbuster international rugby clash.
If you’re lucky enough to have tickets, expect an incredible atmosphere. If not, many pubs and sports bars around Sydney will be showing the match live, making it the perfect excuse to gather a few friends.
Go ice skating by the harbour
Darling Harbour’s winter ice rink is back, bringing a little European charm to the city.
Suitable for all ages, it’s a fun activity whether you’re planning a family outing, a date night or something different with friends. Afterwards, take a stroll around the waterfront or warm up with dinner overlooking the harbour.
Browse Sydney’s weekend markets
There’s something satisfying about wandering through a local market with a coffee in hand.
Across Sydney you’ll find everything from fresh produce and artisan baked goods to handmade jewellery, vintage clothing and homewares. Popular markets often feature live music as well, creating a relaxed weekend atmosphere that’s hard to beat.
Keep an eye out for whales
Winter marks the peak of whale watching season, with humpback whales making their annual migration along the NSW coast.
If you’re feeling adventurous, book a whale watching cruise departing from Circular Quay. Prefer to stay on land? Head to lookouts like North Head, Cape Solander or the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, where sightings are common at this time of year.
Take advantage of the school holidays
With school holidays underway, many of Sydney’s museums, wildlife parks and attractions are running extra activities for children and families.
Interactive exhibitions, animal encounters and hands on workshops make it easy to fill an entire day, whether you’re staying in the city or exploring somewhere new.
Treat yourself to a great meal
Not every weekend needs a packed itinerary. Sometimes the best plan is booking a table at a restaurant you’ve been meaning to try or finding a cosy café for a long brunch.
Winter is the perfect excuse to settle into a bowl of ramen, enjoy a Sunday roast or discover a neighbourhood wine bar you haven’t visited before.
One of the best things about Sydney is that there’s always something happening. You might spend one weekend exploring a festival by the beach and the next discovering a market, watching live sport or spotting whales along the coast.
Whatever your plans, take the opportunity to explore a different corner of the city. You never know what hidden gem you might stumble across, and that’s what weekends in Sydney are all about.
