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What’s On in Sydney: Your Ultimate Guide for November & Beyond
Here's what's on in Sydney this month.
Sydney is always abuzz with experiences that blend culture, cuisine, nightlife and everything in between (the trouble is usually hearing about it all) From immersive storytelling nights and secret pop-ups to art exhibitions and rooftop soirees, the city is serving up fresh ways to explore, celebrate and simply have fun. Whether you’re a local looking for new weekend adventures or a visitor keen to dive into Sydney’s vibrant scene, there’s something to pique every curiosity.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best happenings across the city for this month and beyond, so you can plan your time and make the most of what the city has to offer.
Affordable Art Fair
This weekend, Sydney’s Affordable Art Fair will make its highly-anticipated return. Running from the 6-9th November, guests will have the chance to peruse artworks priced from $100-$10,000, with more than 65 galleries taking part. This will be AAF’s fourth Sydney fair, but promises to be one of its biggest and best yet, made even better by its new home in Carriageworks.
If you’re not in the market to purchase a piece but still want to check out the festivities, there’s a generous program of live art activations, artist talks and activities for the little ones (more details on that, here).
This is a wholesome event that you won’t want to miss, so be sure to mark the calendar and purchase your tickets here.
Sitchu readers receive a special two-for-one offer on tickets, just enter SITCHU50 at checkout to redeem it.
245 Wilson Street. Eveleigh NSW
What’s On in Sydney This Month: Top Picks
Barangaroo Turns Golden with Aperol This November
Sydney’s waterfront is set to shimmer as Golden Hours Barangaroo returns for a month-long celebration of sunshine, spritzes and seaside vibes. There are 23 participating venues including new Italian restaurant GINA, recently reopened ZUSHI, Born by Tapavino, Barangaroo House and Crown Sydney’s Woodcut, a’Mare and Icebergs Harbour Bar. Across each of them, think 2-for-$30 Aperol Spritz, exclusive aperitivo menus, live DJs, roving performers and even the chance to win a trip to Italy.
Running all November long, it’s the perfect excuse to gather your friends and bask in that pre-summer golden glow, spritz in hand.
Bookings made here.
Cocktails & Crime Stories at The Paddo Inn
Step back into 19th-century Sydney at The Paddo Inn on 24th November for Cocktails & Crime Stories, a one-night-only evening of murder, mystery and martinis. Crime historian Max Burns-McRuvie brings the city’s darker past to life, from the Pyrmont Bridge Stalker to the homicidal housewife of Botany Bay, while guests sip on three themed cocktails while nibbling on Italian canapés from Il Baretto. This midweek experience is perfect for true crime fans and history buffs alike.
Tickets are $60pp and available here.
King Living x Messina: Design Meets Dessert
To celebrate the arrival of its new FreeForm Collection, King Living is hosting a two-day public event at Chinatown Country Club’s APT CCC space from November 12-13th. Guests can explore the new range in a studio-style setting designed by Studio Aur, featuring interactive displays, curated art, and a live DJ.
As part of the activation, Gelato Messina and Petit Loulou have created exclusive limited-edition treats inspired by the collection’s materials and design. Only 250 of each will be available daily, so early arrival is a must. Visitors who review the collection on King Living’s new platform will receive a complimentary treat and a chance to win a FreeForm sofa.
Level 5, 222 Clarence Street, Sydney
Where Art Meets Play
Hidden beneath the Art Gallery of New South Wales, Mike Hewson’s The Key’s Under the Mat transforms The Tank into an immersive world of art, play and design. Constructed from thousands of salvaged materials, the installation blurs the line between gallery and playground — inviting visitors to climb, explore and experience art in a completely new way. It’s loud, tactile and completely unlike anything else in Sydney’s art scene.
Art Gallery of New South Wales — Naala Badu Building, Lower Level 4 (The Tank), Art Gallery Road, Sydney
Where Art Meets Ocean: Sculpture by the Sea 2025
Sydney’s coastal walk is about to become a gallery once again. Sculpture by the Sea returns from today until November 3rd, transforming the Bondi to Tamarama stretch into a 2 km open-air sculpture park. Over 100 works from Australian and international artists will be on display, blending in seamlessly with the dramatic cliffs, seascapes and coastal light.
This year’s edition continues the event’s legacy as the world’s largest free outdoor sculpture exhibition, expected to welcome up to 450,000 visitors over its three-week run. Guests can expect large-scale installations and boundary-pushing creativity, from sculptural reinterpretations of fish oil drums to mirrored kaleidoscope designs.
The exhibition is free to attend and open daily so be sure to pay it a visit before it’s gone once again!
A Series of Multi-Day Raves Are Coming to Carriageworks This Summer
This summer, Carriageworks will transform into a high-energy nightclub with The Works, a series of epic warehouse-style events. Expect Carriageworks’ industrial vibe but not as you know it — electrifying lighting, world-class production a lineup of international acts guaranteed to blow the roof off. Taking to the stage: Underworld, Ben Böhmer, Chris Stussy, CamelPhat, I Hate Models, Ross From Friends (pres. Bubble Love), Josh Baker, VTSS, Marc Rebillet, Prospa, Sim0ne, A-Trak, Roza Terenzi, Pretty Girl and more than 20 artists across four unmisssable weeks.
Chin Chin Turns Up the Heat with Disco Yum Cha
This October, Chin Chin’s Weekend Sessions get a Hong Kong-inspired twist with Disco Yum Cha. Running every Saturday and Sunday, the feast pairs dim sum favourites, from prawn and scallop bao toast to BBQ pork and pineapple milk buns, with free-flowing cocktails, wine and brews. At $89pp for 90 minutes (or $109pp for two hours), it’s a flavour-packed lunch party that transports you straight to the streets of Hong Kong, complete with dumplings, egg tarts, and a side of disco flair.
Reservations made here.
Brooklyn Boy Bagels Brings a New York–Style Brunch to Bondi
Brooklyn Boy Bagels is returning to its Bondi roots with a New York deli–inspired brunch takeover at The Corner House. Running every Friday to Sunday from 7am–12pm, the menu goes far beyond bagels, serving up wood-fired challah French toast, shakshuka pizza, New Orleans–style cornbread and sausage, plus stacked bagel boards and BBB’s signature Reubens and lox creations. It’s an authentic taste of NYC brunch culture, reimagined with Bondi flair, and the perfect way to kickstart a sun-soaked weekend.
Med Beats & Mezze Brings Summer Vibes to Woolloomooloo’s Finger Wharf
Starting this October long weekend, Akti is turning up the heat at Baraki Bar with the launch of Med Beats & Mezze . Running every Friday through Sunday this summer-long series is all about Mediterranean-inspired DJ sets and share-style plates. Expect sunshine sessions by the water, mezze plates of moussaka croquettes, kingfish crudo and saganaki with smoked lemon, plus free-flowing happy hour specials. With walk-ins only and prime harbourside views, Baraki Bar is set to be Sydney’s go-to summer spot.
6 Cowper Street Wharf, Woolloomooloo
Back by Popular Demand: Continental Deli’s Hit Bake Sale Has Scored a Weekly Slot
If you missed the Paisano & Daughters inaugural bake sale, fear not. In a spot of glorious news, you can now pick up one of Australia’s best pastry chefs, Lauren Eldridge’s wonderful creations, every Saturday. Expect Lauren’s famous honeycomb, a swathe of sweet treats (including rhubarb jam slice, passionfruit melting moments and maratozzi buns) as well as loaves of bread and savoury delights. We smell a golden, toasty new Saturday ritual.
Every Saturday, 9am to 11am
212 Australia Street, Newtown
Pearls & Plates
Drive just 90 minutes out of Sydney and you’ll come across NSW’s only pearl farm. This October, they’re inviting guests to Broken Bay Pearl Farm (and a nearby secret lunch location) to indulge in a six-course feast, curated by Chef Guy Jeffreys. Guests will also be treated to a live pearl harvest and riverside performances whilst they indulge in fine wines, cocktails and champagne. Just the way we like to celebrate Spring!
Book tickets here
What’s On in Sydney: Art
Sydney’s Gadigal Station Named Among the World’s Most Beautiful
Sydney’s striking Gadigal Station has been shortlisted in the Prix Versailles 2025 awards, recognising the world’s most beautiful passenger stations. Celebrated for its sleek design, sandstone detailing and striking art installations, the station has been praised as “the epitome of absolute modernity” by The Prix Versailles. Not only is the work a stunning tribute to Country and history, but it’s also a careful blend of future-focused architecture beneath the city’s streets.
Other finalists include Mons Station in Belgium, Baiyun Station in China, Saint-Denis – Pleyel Station in France, Gustave Roussy Station in France, Qasr Al Hokm Station in Saudi Arabia and KAFD Station in Saudi Arabia.
Gilded Gaze
Sydney Harbour has a new star attraction. Ancient Feelings by British artist Thomas J Price is a towering, three metre high bronze sculpture of a woman’s head. Gazing out across the water, the figure stands proudly on Tallawoladah Lawn. This is the first in a year-long public art series designed to spark conversation and reflection. Be sure to pay it a visit for a moment of culture between coffee runs and harbour strolls.
The sculpture is on display from September 26th 2025 – April 2026 at the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, Tallawoladah Lawn, Circular Quay
Experience Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel Right Here in Sydney
After an Australian debut in Brisbane and a tour around the globe, it is finally Sydney’s chance to experience this iconic immersive exhibition. Visitors will be able to experience 34 of Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes with Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition. You’ll be able to view these masterfully recreated pieces at eye level, where details often missed will be revealed. You’ll also be able to glean plenty of background on the pieces via informative signage and audio guides, illuminating how these pieces have shaped art, fashion, film and design to this day.
From $24, tickets available here
What’s On in Sydney: Entertainment
Be Transported to the Streets of New Orleans at The Jazz Room
If you’ve ever dreamt of slipping away into the smoky speakeasies of the 1920s, this is your chance to experience the charm of New Orleans, right here in Sydney’s Inner West. Happening at the opulent, heritage‑listed Art Deco belle Albert Palais in Leichhardt, The Jazz Room has already dazzled crowds across Europe, the UK and the US — and now it’s bringing the soul to our fair city.
Expect sultry sax, brassy beats and velvet vocals as local jazz maestros riff through timeless favourites. And yes, true to jazz form, there’s plenty of spontaneous improvisation cooking throughout the show.
This toe‑tapping journey runs on selected Friday nights from early September through December, with two showtimes each evening — one at 6:30 pm and another at 8:30 pm . Tickets kick off from around A$49, making it an affordable slice of swing for date nights, catch‑ups or solo adventures with a cocktail in hand.
Until 5th December
Book your tickets here
What’s On in Sydney: Markets
Affordable Art Fair
In early November, Sydney’s Affordable Art Fair will make its highly-anticipated return. Running from the 6-9th November, guests will have the chance to peruse artworks priced from $100-$10,000, with more than 65 galleries taking part. This will be AAF’s fourth Sydney fair, but promises to be one of its biggest and best yet, made even better by its new home in Carriageworks.
If you’re not in the market to purchase a piece but still want to check out the festivities, there’s a generous program of live art activations, artist talks and activities for the little ones (more details on that, here).
This is a wholesome event that you won’t want to miss, so be sure to mark the calendar and purchase your tickets here.
245 Wilson Street. Eveleigh NSW
What’s On in Sydney: Festivals
Eton Mess: South Sydney’s Sweet New Music Festival
With beloved festivals like Groovin’ the Moo and Folk By the Sea calling it quits for 2025, a new contender is stepping up to fill the gap. Enter Eton Mess; South Sydney’s brand-new outdoor music festival, landing at Peace Park in Sutherland on Saturday, 29th November. Headlined by Young Franco and featuring sets from Hellcat Speedracer, MAD.DAY, Harry Hayes, and Triple J’s Lucy Smith, expect five hours of non-stop beats from golden hour to after dark. Backed by Young Henrys with local food and drink favourites available too, it promises to be a delicious day out.
Tickets are just $55 and can be purchased here.
Live Music, Harbour Views & Wildlife: Twilight at Taronga 2026
Sydney’s iconic summer tradition is back. Twilight at Taronga returns for five weekends from February 6th, bringing world-class live music, breathtaking harbour sunsets, and a chance to support wildlife conservation. From The Paper Kites and Emma Memma to Xavier Rudd, The Rubens, Vera Blue, Dope Lemon, Bliss n Eso, Marlon Williams, and Bjorn Again, there’s a show for every music lover. Every ticket sold contributes to Taronga Zoo’s new Wildlife Hospital, so you can party under the stars knowing you’re making a difference. Tickets go on sale October 30th at 12pm AEDT.
Click here to register for pre-sale
What’s On in Sydney: Eat & Drink
Kaiza
Japanese x Vietnamese fusion bites paired with bottomless sake, spritz, wine or lager are the order of the day at Kaiza. Head in on a weekend for their bottomless offering and you’ll be treated to six generous courses. Expect sashimi and house-made chilli lamb, teriyaki-glazed meats and smoky wok-tossed fried rice, topped with a delightfully convivial atmosphere.
$89 per person
95 Enmore Road, Newtown
Sunset Sessions at Q Station
With some of the best harbour views in Sydney, you won’t find a more scenic backdrop for Saturday drinks. Sunset Sessions at Q Station are back for spring and summer with a limited number of dates available from now until March 2026. Pack your picnic rug, pre-order a hamper and kickback, whilst local artists serenade you with tunes.
1 North Head Scenic Drive, Manly
Suntory Bar at Prefecture 48
Get ready: Suntory Bar is landing in Sydney, and it’s bringing serious Japanese flair to Prefecture 48, the ultimate CBD precinct celebrating food, drink and culture. Kicking off on Friday 8 August, this two-level pop-up offers a refined, yet playful drinking experience inspired by ‘nomikai’ — Japan’s art of post-work socialising.
Sip over curated cocktails made with Toki whisky, Roku gin, Haku vodka and more, paired with inventive dishes created in collaboration with distinguished Japanese chef Tetsuya Wakuda.
Nestled inside heritage-listed Prefecture 48, this is where traditional craft meets local sophistication — perfect for whisky lovers, curious drinkers or anyone chasing a memorable evening. Walk-ins are welcome, or book a spot for one of their limited-time, chef-collab activations.
Tuesday to Thursday, 5pm to 11pm & Friday to Saturday, 5pm to 12am
8th August to 8th November
Prefecture 48, 230 Sussex Street
What’s On in Sydney: Outdoor Adventure
Take a Spin on One of Sydney’s Electric Picnic Boats
Soak up some spring sun on your very own environmentally friendly picnic boat — no boat licence needed! Set sail from The Spit in Mosman with up to seven friends (pups included), load up a picnic and take in the sparkling Sydney harbour views. Sounds like the perfect spring day out if you ask us!
Prices start from $149
D’Albora Marina, Mosman
Sculptures by the Sea Returns
Every year, as the temps start to rise and the swimmers come out of hibernation, Sydney gets a little extra sparkle courtesy of Sculpture by the Sea. Returning to the iconic Bondi to Tamarama coastal walk from 17 October, this larger-than-life outdoor exhibition transforms the cliffs into an open-air gallery, with jaw-dropping views and impressive installations in every direction.
Celebrating artists from 20 countries, this free-to-the-public art trail draws more than 450,000 visitors annually and has rightfully earned its rep as the unofficial kick-off to Sydney’s summer. Expect bold, brilliant and bizarre sculptures perched along the coast, each competing with the ocean for your attention. It’s sunshine, surf and surrealism, all wrapped up in one very photogenic stroll.
Starts 17th October
Bondi to Tamarama coastal walk
The Ultimate Winter Sleepover At Roar and Snore at Taronga Zoo
For a night at the zoo unlike any other, Taronga Zoo’s Roar and Snore is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Perched high above Sydney Harbour, this all-inclusive overnight adventure invites guests to stay in safari-style tents with uninterrupted views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
Kick things off with a welcome drink before enjoying a delicious buffet dinner, followed by a guided night safari where you’ll meet some of the zoo’s most iconic residents after dark. The tents come with all the creature comforts — think electric blankets, comfy beds, and a front-row seat to the zoo’s nocturnal soundtrack.
In the morning, wake to the roar of lions before heading off on behind-the-scenes tours and up-close animal encounters, all before the crowds arrive.
This is glamping, Taronga-style — wild, wonderful and completely unforgettable.
What’s On in Sydney: Coming Soon
Sydney’s Hidden Venue Gets Its Glow-Up: The Cutaway at Barangaroo
Beneath Barangaroo Reserve lies one of Sydney’s most striking architectural feats, known as The Cutaway. Carved from sandstone and framed by soaring concrete walls, this vast subterranean space is being transformed into a world-class cultural venue.
Currently undergoing an $80 million redesign, the reimagined Cutaway will feature 13 sculptural timber “trees”, a three-level fit-out and First Nations design elements woven throughout. All of it has drawn inspirtation from the natural rock shelters (giba-gunya) of the site.
Set to reopen in early 2026, it will soon host everything from large-scale art exhibitions to immersive performances and major cultural events. Sleek, sustainable and unmistakably Sydney, The Cutaway is poised to become the city’s most talked-about creative landmark.
Barangaroo Reserve, 1 Merriman St, Barangaroo NSW 2000
Bondi Beach NYE Returns After a Decade With Fireworks, Family Fun + Big Surprises
For the first time in over a decade, New Year’s Eve is returning to Bondi Beach. Fuzzy, the team behind Harbourlife, Field Day and Listen Out Presents, has secured the license to bring an all-new celebration to Sydney’s most iconic shoreline on December 31. Promising a world-class party with a distinctly Bondi feel, the over-18s ticketed event will run alongside a free, family-friendly celebration featuring food trucks, roaming entertainment and 9 pm fireworks. With limited capacity and major announcements still to come, this one is tipped to redefine how Sydney rings in the new year. Sign up at fuzzy.com.au.
Bondi Beach
Looking for more fun things to do in Sydney? We have plenty to keep you entertained. From Sydney’s best new degustation menus and best bottomless brunches to the best Mexican restaurants in town and where to go for a dreamy Sydney staycation, here’s all you need for a weekend in the city.
Our Sitchu editors work hard to deliver you the best products, events and venues that we hope you will love, each one is selected independently. Sitchu may receive an affiliate commission when you follow some links.
