What's On in Sydney: Your Ultimate Guide for April & Beyond
Here's what's on in Sydney this month.
Summer is rolling out and Autumn is rolling in and with the new season comes a whole swathe of events we're keen to hit up. From dining deals to engaging exhibitions, there's no shortage of things to do in Sydney this month.
We're excited to enjoy some cooler weather with scenic walks and cosy aperitivo hours. To help you make the most of this March, we've rounded up the best of what's on in Sydney this month.
What's On in Sydney: Play
Immerse Yourself in Luna Park's Sonic Neon Installation
No need to nip to Tokyo to get your next fix of breathtaking light and sound installs, friends. Sonic Neon is making its debut within Luna Park's Crystal Palace on Saturday 13th April. The accessible and all-ages experience takes visitors through eight immersive installs across 150 metres that utilise lasers, light and mirror - all pulsating to iconic tunes.
First release ticket holders will also score access to a blacklight dessert bar serving up Tokyo Lamington treats, glow in the dark soft serve and fairy floss.
From $29 per person, available here
Opens from Saturday 13th April, from 10am
1 Olympic Drive, Milsons Point
What's On in Sydney: Activations
Score Some Free Food Just by Donning Your Bonds Gear
As part of their 'As Worn By Us' campaign, Bonds are shouting hundreds of Aussies free food from iconic restaurants across Australia this weekend. Why? Because they're celebrating that no matter our differences, we have Bonds in common. What have you got to do? Gather your pals, don your Bonds gear and head into one of the listed destinations to score a free signature dish. You can even score a $100 gift card if you're one of the first five people to swing by.
Happyfield in Haberfield will have free hashbrowns for the first 100 customers, Combi in Byron Bay will have free acai bowls for the first 100 customers and Mockingbird in Newcastle will be serving free banana bread for the first 50 customers. You can catch the full list of participating venues here.
Saturday 20th April
What's On in Sydney: Eat & Drink
The People's Banquet: The Best Succulent Chinese Meal in Town
What happens when The Deniliquin Dictionary, The Bob Hawke Leisure Centre and Lucky Prawn Chinese Bistro join forces? A very, very good time. They've combined the most iconic Chinese dishes into the ultimate Chinese banquet. Think Mongolian lamb, spring rolls, prawn toast, honey chicken and more, all heaped onto a lazy Susan. We can't think of a better place to gather and make merry.
$55 per person (6 guests or more)
From Wednesday 17th April for one month only
8-12 Sydney Street, Marrickville
Enjoy a "Fire Feast"-Themed Long Lunch at Wildwood Kangaroo Valley
Fancy a fire-inspired feast? Look no further than this exclusive long lunch, hosted by luxury event venue Wildwood Kangaroo Valley.
An autumnal event guaranteed to be a feast for all the senses, the Wildood Kangaroo Valley has partnered with Queensland's Terra Firma to celebrate local community and cuisine.
Taking place across two days - Saturday, May 18 and Sunday, May 19 - guests will enjoy a multi-course menu that showcases the region's diverse range of produce, including fresh meat, seafood and locally sourced fruit and vegetables.
If that isn't luxe enough, the meal has been expertly matched with carefully selected wines and beers from Kangaroo Valley Fine Wines & Craft Ales.
Tickets from $200, bookings essential.
Saturday, May 18 & Sunday, May 19
The World's First Hangover-Free Pop-Up Bar (or Your Money Back!)
If you haven't yet experienced the miracle of alc-eze, now is the time to get on board. The alc-eze hangover-free pop-up bar is here for a good time (not a long time) so do mosey on over. Choose from a selection of craft beers, wines, and cocktails, and you will receive a complimentary alc-eze tablet guaranteed to keep your hangover at bay. Pop on down for a casual drink and if you wake up with a sore head, the bar is willing to foot your bill!
Thursday April 25th to Sunday 28th April
557 Crown Street, Surry Hills
Indulge in a Seven-Course Pasta Degustation at a'Mare
Has a set menu ever been more tempting?! Curated by Alessandro Pavoni, this one-night-only event is bound to be a memorable one. You can expect the likes of suppli cacio e pepe (deep-fried creamy spaghetti cacio e pepe); Polpo con gnocchi di patate (WA grilled octopus served with potato gnocchi filled with a ‘Luciana’ sauce of braised octopus and tomato) and Risotto allo zafferano con guancia di manzo (Saffron carnaroli risotto served with Nebbiolo braised Wagyu beef cheek) amongst other carby delights including a crunchy pasta ball filled with cheese!
Can't make the date? Don't fret! A'Mare will be hosting two weeks of a five-course pasta degustation after the event so don't miss that!
From $150 per person, book here
Wednesday 1st May
1 Barangaroo Avenue, Sydney
Explore Sydney's Chicest New Cocktail Bar
With Sydney’s late-night bar scene having a renaissance after a difficult few years, an exciting new venue in the heart of Darling Harbour is setting the bar high – 35 stories high! Lumière on Thirty Five, a buzzing and luxurious bar situated on the 35th floor of the Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour, will open on Friday, April 12th, and guests are in for an absolute treat.
Boasting breathtaking views of the sparkling Sydney skyline, the intimate setting guarantees an unforgettable evening of indulgence thanks to world-class mixologists and chefs in an electric atmosphere that is as welcoming (and Insta-worthy) as it is dazzling.
12 Darling Drive, Sydney
Score a Bargain Seafood Platter at Woodcut
Seafood, sunsets and martinis...what more could you want from an autumn afternoon? Throughout April Woodcut will be serving a two-person seafood stand in addition to two martinis for an incredible $99. You'll score blue swimmer crab, Balmain bug, tiger prawns, steamed blue mussels, natural oysters and diamond clams as part of your platter. A delightful afternoon out is on the cards.
$99 for two
Friday 29th March to Thursday 2nd May (Available Sunday to Thursday evening with a 5:30pm, 5:45pm or 6pm seating)
Crown Sydney, 1 Barangaroo Avenue, Barangaroo
All-You-Can-Eat Charcoal Chicken at Henrietta's
Have sweeter words ever been spoken? Launching on April 13th, you can now score a 90-minute all-you-can-eat charcoal chicken sesh at Henrietta's (including sides!) for a sweet $48 per person. We're talking crispy chippies, toum, fattoush salad, hummus and pickles. Splash another $35 should you like to add bottomless wine and beers.
$48 per person
Shop 1/500 Crown Street, Surry Hills
Fire & Vine: Exploring Volcanic Terroirs by ESQ
Consider yourself a bit of a wine connoisseur? This April ESQ is hosting an extra special evening for wine lovers with a focus on the unique flavours that emerge from volcanic soils. Each volcanic wine will be paired with one of five courses from the kitchen that will range from Sydney rock oysters to kingfish ceviche and Valrhona white chocolate mousse. A one-off sensory evening that will leave you with some learnings, too!
Wednesday 10th April, 6:30pm
From $195
Level 2, Queen Victoria Building
Book a Staycation
Sydney is a delight at any time of the year but this Autumn the Sydney event scene is really popping off. Whether it's an Easter long weekend staycation or an April sojourn, consider booking a night in the city and exploring all that's on offer. Need some inspo? We recommend scoring one of the last tickets to Handa Opera's phenomenal harbourfront performance of West Side Story followed by a viewing of Louise Bourgeois' iconic exhibition 'Has The Day Invaded the Night of Has the Night Invaded the Day?'. Need somewhere to stay? The Sebel Sydney Martin Place is located walking distance from most of the city's best attractions this season.
Beers & Bangers with Kyiv Social
This April Plate it Forward's Kyiv Social will be kicking off their free monthly Sunday laneway party to be held in Grafton Lane. In a celebration of Australian and Ukranian culture, there will be Ukranian house DJs, Young Henry beers and sausage sandos by LP's Quality Meats. A great way to spend a Sunday arvo and for a great cause, too! Kyiv Social currently employs 23 recently arrived Ukranian refugees.
First Sunday of the month, 1pm to 9pm
Grafton Lane, Sydney
Maybe Sammy 2024 Cocktail Festival
Australia's biggest international cocktail festival is about to hit town so it's time to start prepping! There will be 21 events with over 30 of the world's best bartenders whipping up bevvies each night. 11 Sydney institutions will be playing host to the visiting bars who will each present three to four cocktails per evening. The extra good news? 19 of the 21 events are free to attend (book here) which means more $$$ for cocktails! Catch the full schedule here.
Tuesday 9th April to Sunday 14th April
2024 Chef Series at Lana
Beloved Sydney foodie destination Lana will be playing host to four of Sydney's favourite chefs this summer in a series of guest takeovers. Chef Adam Hall from Kanin Project and Flying Fish will be exploring Filipino flavours whilst Chef Andrianto Wirya of Easy Tiger will be teaming up with Head Chef Alex Wong to take on the nostalgic Southeast Asian dishes of their childhood. Chef Brendan Fong of Hubert will marry East with West for his menu that evokes a Japanese Izakaya with an Italian Trattoria. Finally, Chef Robin Oh of Russo & Russo will be exploring the use of Korean ferments with Italian flavours. The only hard part will be deciding which month to pop in! Good luck!
$119 per person, tickets available here
Wednesday 10th January, Wednesday 21st February, Wednesday 13th March and Wednesday 10th April
5-7 Young Street, Sydney
Shell House (Image Credit: Jonny Valient)
Shell House Welcomes New Head Chef
Sydney institution Shell House has just announced the appointment of Brad Guest (ex-Oncore by Clare Smyth, ex-Sixpenny and ex-Cafe Paci) as the new Head Chef of the Dining Room and Terrace. If you've been looking for an excuse to book a return to this beloved Sydney restaurant, this is it.
Guest aims to continue developing Shell House's impeccable reputation with an inaugural menu we're smitten with. Think sourdough orecchiette with mushroom and almond, linguine with urchin, caviar and lemon and whole roasted flounder. Heaven!
37 Margaret Street, Sydney
Head into Yo-Chi for the Pistachio Papi Collab
Social media favourite Pistachio Papi is touching down in all Yo-Chi stores for a limited time and if you know what's good for you, you'll make a trip in quick smart. The smooth and creamy spread will be available as a topping throughout April and May until sold out (rumours are it will!). Pair with strawberry or signature tart for maximum satisfaction.
Sunday 14th April to Sunday 26th May (unless sold out!)
Multiple locations
What's On in Sydney: Explore
Armidale's Big Chill Festival
This May Armidale will be welcoming winter with a phenomenal lineup via their Big Chill Festival. The festival schedule has a little something for everyone in the fam from The Reubens and Jack River to a special appearance by Paw Patrol. There will also be a 'live and local' stage that will spotlight local talent. Best of all, there will be gourmet food stands, craft beers and local wines aplenty!
Saturday 18th May to Sunday 19th May
Armidale Sports Ground, 227 Mann Street, Armidale
Secure Your Season Pass for Thredbo
Praise be! Ski season is upon us and Thredbo is celebrating with a limited number of season passes, lift passes, rentals, lessons and tours up for sale. The winter 2024 season is looking better than ever with new offerings in the mix including the resort's brand-new Alpine Coaster. If you're lucky enough to secure a Winter 2024 season pass you'll also score a heap of discounts across the resort and access to the largest ever benefits program. Head over here to get in on the action.
What's On in Sydney: Arts & Culture
Aboriginal Bush Tucker Tour
One to pair with your visit to the Royal Botanic Gardens, this bush tucker tour is one of the best things you can do in Sydney. The hour-long tour is led by a First Nations guide who will take you through the history and modern use of Aboriginal bush foods. You'll also get to sample plenty of plants and fruits whilst learning about their uses today.
$30 per adult
Garden Shop, Royal Botanic Gardens
Get Hands-On with Make it May at the Art Gallery of NSW
We love a good workshop, talk, experience and performance and the Art Gallery of NSW is offering all four this May. Each Wednesday night and weekend throughout May, you'll be able to get in on the action. Highlights include painting and sculpture workshops, participating in the Rainbow Rock Mountain installation, a botanical dyeing workshop and an artist talk by Archibald-winning artist Wendy Sharpe. And that's only the tip of the iceberg! Click here for the full program.
Wednesday 1st May to Wednesday 29th May
Art Gallery of NSW
West Side Story
If you only have one evening out this year, make it this. Handa Opera's production of West Side Story is nothing short of spectacular. Set against Sydney Harbour with the Harbour Bridge and Opera House in the background, the setting itself will take your breath away. As the sky paints itself in different colours, you'll be hard-pressed to know where to look. Then begins one of the most beloved musical scores ever produced. Impeccable costumes and a live orchestra meets a retelling of Romeo & Juliet that'll blow you away. Only a few tickets remain so get in quick.
Friday 22nd March to Sunday 21st April
Fleet Steps, Mrs Macquaries Point, Sydney
Sydney Writers Festival
Every year the Sydney Writers Festival lineup seems to get better and better. This year over 200 events will be taking place across eight days so there are no excuses when it comes to attendance. This year's highlights include a conversation with Booker Prize shortlisted author Paul Murray on his latest release The Bee Sting, Julia Baird on her latest book Bright Shining and a conversation with Anne Patchett. Check out the full program here.
Wednesday 8th May to Sunday 26th May
24th Biennale of Sydney
For those not in the know, the Biennale of Sydney is a celebration of contemporary art held every two years. This year, the Biennale entitled 'Ten Thousand Suns' is exploring the best in international and domestic art.
Key to the ethos of the Biennale, the events throughout the three-month celebration will be free. White Bay Power Station, a heritage-listed space, will be opening its door for the first time in over a century to host pieces from across the globe.
The festival offers enriching experiences for the entire community with artists' talks, music, panels, performances and workshops pencilled in throughout.
Saturday 9th March to Monday 10th June
Peruse Works by Roy Lichenstein, Andy Warhol and Helmut Newton at Sydney's Newest Gallery
Offering a refreshing new space for Sydneysiders to enjoy pop art, sculpture and photography from the world's greatest artists. ART+ is the latest venture from fine art specialist Jay Lyon and restauranteur Andrew Becher. Their new space aims to blend art, dining and experience in a way previously unseen in the Sydney scene. New and emerging artists will show alongside high-profile artists, many of whom will be exclusive to Art+. Pair with a visit to Franca or Parlar and your weekend is set.
5/81 Macleay Street, Potts Point
The Art of Banksy: Without Limits
The Art of Banksy: Without Limits exhibition has finally touched down in Sydney! More than 150 of the artists' works and multiple experiential areas are set to be enjoyed with highlights including "Dismaland" installations, prints of "Flower Thrower" and "Kissing Coppers" and the "Phone Booth" sculpture. Visitors are able to get hands on by spray painting their own t-shirt with a $2 donation to the M.V. Louise Michel organisation.
Tickets from $41, available here
From Wednesday January 24th
Sydney Town Hall
Princess Diana: Accredited Access Exhibition
Royal fans, the wait is over. The immersive Princess Diana: Accredited Access Exhibition has touched down in Sydney. The hugely popular exhibit takes you on a detailed journey through the life and legacy of England's most beloved princess. Via the lens of her official royal photographer, you'll be able to glean never-before-seen insight. With sold our sessions across LA, Chicago and Toronto, you won't want to miss this one.
From Wednesday 10th April
Level 5, 1-3 Smail Street, Ultimo
What's On in Sydney: Coming Soon
Noosa Eat & Drink Festival
Noosa Eat & Drink Festival is back for another year and this is your reminder to plan a long weekend, stat. The beloved coastal town will host 75+ events over four days with a lineup that’ll grumble your tummy. Over 80 local, international and Australian foodie-focused brands will take over the festival village with events like gourmet pop-ups, chef demonstrations, beach parties (complete with tunes) and interactive masterclasses on offer.
For those keen to immerse themselves even deeper, many of Noosa’s top-tier restaurants will be holding events across the four days. There will also be a swathe of events taking place on Noosa Main Beach from sundowners to brunch. The iconic long lunch event sold out in a matter of minutes but there are plenty of other highly anticipated events available to book via the full schedule here. Just don’t sleep on it!
Tickets are on sale now here
Thursday, May 30th to Sunday 2nd June
An Evening with Dolly Alderton
Best-selling author, journalist and everyone's bestie, Dolly Alderton, is bringing her insightful musings on modern life, relationships, and the female experience to Australia for a series of evening events around the country this November with stops in Sydney, Perth, Melbourne and Brisbane.
Known for her time on the hugely successful podcast The High Low, her iconic memoir Everything I Know About Love, which has recently been transformed into a hit television series, and her beloved Sunday Times advice column "Dear Dolly," which has been adapted into a widely-adored book of the same name, Dolly will spend a heartwarming evening sharing her latest book, "Good Material," and answering questions.
Presale tickets can be purchased from 10 am AEST on Tuesday, 12 March 2024 via Fane or via Ticketmaster on Wednesday, 13th March at 12pm.
Snag Tickets to Ryan Holiday's Stoic Life Tour
Stoicism is on the rise, and we love to see it. A branch of philosophy that encourages self-mastery, perseverance and wisdom, the modern-day applications are endless and needed now more than ever.
Host of The Daily Stoic podcast and #1 New York Times bestselling author, Ryan is hitting up Australian shores this July to share ancient philosophical wisdom and his contemporary perspectives and it's going to be good.
If you're new to stoicism, don't sweat. Ryan will be covering all the basics plus practical applications throughout the lecture and there will be a live audience Q&A at the end for all your burning questions.
$103 per person, tickets are available here
Wednesday 31st July, 7:30pm to 9:30pm
Sydney Town Hall, 483 George Street, Sydney
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.
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