What's On in Sydney: Your Ultimate Guide for October & Beyond
Here's what's on in Sydney this month.
As the cool days fade away, we're embracing the start of spring with visits to breezy rooftop bars and charming waterside restaurants. With Sydney buzzing with vibrant festivals and exciting events, there's no better time to explore the city.
To help you make the most of October (and beyond), we've curated the best happenings around Sydney this month.
What's On in Sydney: Coming Soon
Squid Game: The Experience Arrives in Sydney
Yep, it's your turn! December 16th will see the arrival of Squid Game: The Experience at Luna Park Sydney. giving fans the unique opportunity to experience the iconic challenges for themselves. Team up with your pals (up to 25) or play solo to compete in "Red Light, Green Light" as well as other brand-new games, but remember, only one can win! You will accumulate points as you move through the challenges, meaning players won't be eliminated and can try their hand at each game. Once you're done, head straight to the Korean street food night market to stock up on traditional treats.
Join the waitlist here
Coming Monday 16th December
What's On in Sydney: Eat & Drink
Celebrate Spring at This High Tea With a Difference
Enjoy a gin twist on a classic high tea - a "High G&Tea", if you will - as Roku Gin pairs savoury scones and sweet treats with custom Roku Gin cocktails at Reign at The QVB.
The special, Japanese-inspired twist on high tea to celebrate all things spring (and Roku Gin's first seasonal, limited-edition release: Roku Gin Sakura Bloom Edition) takes place on Sunday, 13 October, with a special VIP offering hosted by Roku brand ambassador James Buntin and Grandiflora founder Saskia Havekes also available, featuring an exclusive gin-tasting before the high tea begins.
All attendees will also receive a full-size bottle of the Sakura Bloom Eau De Toilette (50ml, valued at $220). This limited-edition fragrance combines Japanese distillation's craftsmanship and the artistry of floral fragrance design.
$99 per person; $129 for the VIP offering; book your spot here
Sunday 13th October from 2 pm
Level 1, Queen Victoria Building
Gin & Jazz Sundays At The Apollo
Jazz up your Sundays with The Apollo's upcoming Gin & Jazz Sundays. It doesn't get much better than a mouth-watering Greek feast with a side of live jazz and a delicious Four Pillars gin cocktail.
$95 per person
12pm to 4pm
Sunday 29th September and Sunday 27th October
Festival of Food at The Streets of Barangaroo
There's a new metro line in town and Barangaroo has never been a better place to hang of a weekend or post-workday. In order to celebrate the fab weather and food, Barangaroo will be hosting a month-long foodie fest packed with events. Bound to be a highlight, Spring in The Streets will offer an open-air festival vibe with plenty of live music. There will also be a range of ticketed events ranging from four-course dinners to yum-cha and whisky tasting. The full lineup of events can be viewed here.
Tuesday 1st October to Thursday 31st October
Barangaroo
Settle in for Sunday Lunch at Cafe Sydney
Cafe Sydney has long been a favourite for a lazy Sunday lunch and they've just made it all even easier with a new three-course a la carte Sunday menu. Each Sunday they'll also have a selection of magnums and vintages ready and waiting to be poured by the glass as well as a spotlight on a different local distillery each month. First up, Ester Gin! Pop by in October and you can sip on an Ester's Poise (Ester Dry Gin, lillet blanc, mandarin & thyme syrup, fresh lemon and pastis mist) or an Ester Martini! Sold.
$145 per person
5th Floor, Customs House, Circular Quay
Celebrate Negroni Week with a $12 Tipple at Italian Street Kitchen
Mark your calendars, because Negroni Week (September 16 - 22) is almost here, and to celebrate Italian Street Kitchen is putting this beloved drink in the spotlight.
For the next few weeks, choose from FOUR Negroni flavours - think Classic, Hazelnut, Sbagliato and a Naked Non-Alcoholic version - for just $12 each.
The perfect accompaniment to also enjoy the restaurant's new and improved pizza dough with two new flavours for just $20 each, or pair your cocktail with a cheeky (and decadent) Black Forest Tiramisu for $15.
$12 Negronis are available until October 6, 2024.
Various Italian Street Kitchen locations
Discover Sydney's Secret History Whilst Enjoying a Progressive Lunch in Sydney's East
Led by Sydney Historian Elliot Lindsay, this progressive lunch is the stuff dreams are made of. You'll make your way through three of the East's finest dining establishments, Bistro Moncur, Civico 47 and Ursula's, whilst being regaled with Paddington and Woollahra's fascinating past. Each date will offer different routes with different courses, but you can look forward to the likes of Bistro Moncur’s famed Chicken Liver Pâté with seasonal chutney and brioche, Civico 47’s go-to Mafalde pasta with king prawn, bok choy and tomato, and Ursula’s delectable Chocolate soufflé with coconut crème anglaise. The perfect date!
$315 per person, bookings can be made here
Friday 6th September, Friday 4th October and Friday 1st November
Multiple locations
Image Credits (Alana Dimou)
Celebrate the Glorious Rosé at Barangaroo House
A month-long recognition of our favourite spring beverage, Rosé Rising is taking over Barangaroo House with custom rosé-themed drinks and food and plenty of pink decor. Smoke will be serving classic French Provence rosé alongside Blush and Burn shots, a Pink Sunset cocktail and petite pink snacks.
Rekōdo will also be getting in on the action with Veuve Clicquot Rosé by the glass, pink tuna sang choy bao and strawberry fried ice cream. As for House Bar, it's all about Chandon Rosé bubbles and frosé by the harbour.
Swing by House Bar and Smoke Thursday through Sunday for DJs from 4pm or Rekōdo from 6pm on Thursdays, 6:30pm on Fridays and 1pm Saturdays and Sundays.
Tuesday 1st October to Thursday 31st October
35 Barangaroo Avenue, Barangaroo
The Inner West Ale Trail is Officially a National Treasure
The Inner West Ale Trail is a collective of 18 hyperlocal microbreweries producing some of the best beer in the country. It's officially a national treasure with funding bestowed by the NSW Government to help it flourish. We're pretty lucky here in Sydney to have such a unique spot so this weekend get out and start your journey along the trail. From '80s music bingo to live music and festivals, it's a hub for culture and a fab pick for your next night (or day!) out.
Gather the Gals and Support a Good Cause with This Pink Afternoon Tea
A spring afternoon tea is always a good idea and even more so when it's supporting the National Breast Cancer Foundation's vision of zero deaths with $5 from each Fullerton Pink Afternoon Tea donated towards the cause.
So, what will you be feasting on? Pink choux featuring jasmine mousse and grapefruit curd, rose petals crafted with pistachio roulade and smoked salmon tartare ravioli. One lucky guest will even win an Australian Argyle Pink Diamon necklace valued at $2700!
From $78 per person
Tuesday 1st October to Thursday 31st October
1 Martin Place, Sydney
What's On in Sydney: Fun
Head to World Square for 3 Days of Free Climbing Thanks to The North Face
Climbing is for everyone, and The North Face is here to prove it! This October they're transforming World Square into a huge playground for three days and everyone is invited to get involved. As part of their "we play different" campaign The North Face will be hosting free beginner-friendly workshops in partnership with Blochaus. Athletes and special guests will be in attendance, helping guide visitors. The activation will also see live music, interactive games, free drinks, prizes and more so don't miss it!
Friday 11th October to Sunday 13th October
644 George Street, Sydney
Soak Up Spring with This Open-Air Roller-Skating Rink
If you're guilty of picking up skating as a hobby during lockdown and haven't skated since, it's time to dust off your wheels. This open-air roller-skating rink in Darling Harbour is as groovy as it gets. You can expect themed nights (we're talking Barbie, T-Swift and Abba) as well as food trucks, cocktails and spaces set up for downtime. No Skates? No worries! You can hire them down there.
From $20, tickets are available here
Until Friday 13th October
Palm Grover, Darling Harbour
Catch a Movie With a View at Taronga Zoo's Harbour View Cinema
For the perfect October long weekend activity, head to Taronga Zoo's Harbour View Cinema, which is back for another year. Whether it's a springtime date night, a wholesome hang with the girls or a family-friendly activity, you can watch your favourite flick amongst the stunning grounds of Taronga Zoo with the breathtaking backdrop of the iconic Sydney Harbour.
From Thursday 3rd October to Sunday 6th October, bring a picnic rug and enjoy a night under the stars (with 4,000 animals that call Taronga home as your companions), complete with movie snacks, sweet treats, hot food and drink - and of course, a fan-favourite movie.
Thursday 3rd October to Sunday 6th October
Tickets from $27 (include free Zoo entry from 2pm)
Book here to ensure you don't miss out
Taronga Zoo Concert Lawn
The Rocks Markets: Wellness Edition
Always a delight, The Rocks Markets just got a whole heap lovelier with the announcement of their spring wellness weekend. The two-day event will offer a range of free experiences from mini facials and massages to nourishing taste testers. There will be workshops, free smoothies and fitness classes as well as plenty more fun events to engage in. Don't miss it! You can catch the full schedule of events here.
Saturday 12th October to Sunday 13th October
The Rocks
Celebrate Spring with Sydney's Most Luxurious Super Yacht
The Jackson, an incredibly luxe super yacht, is serving up a a bunch of lush events perfect for the warmer weather this season. The Spring-Summer series consists of six bespoke events, all designed to highlight Sydney's unparalleled harbour. We're talking Chandon harbour long lunches, New Year's Eve aboard The Jackson and chef-curated dinners. Drop this in the group chat and cue the good times. Head over here for all the event details.
From Saturday 28th September
Enjoy a Month of Wellness with South Eveleigh
One of Sydney's most dynamic precincts, South Eveleigh, is kicking off a series of wellness-focused activations this month and we want in on a little bit of everything. A reflection of the precinct's commitment to community and connection, the month of festivities will include activities geared around nurturing physical, mental, nutritional and emotional health. There will be run clubs, skin checks, massages, ice baths, puppy playtime, body percussion and even some mum and bubs yoga.
There will be a mix of free and paid activities (at a maximum of $30) per session so be sure to take a look at the full program and book into your top picks here.
From Tuesday 8th October to Saturday 2nd November
Locomotive Street, Eveleigh
Check Out Luna Park's Newest Attraction: LITE BRITE
After the great success of Sonic Neon, Luna Park is once again introducing a fun new addition. The new immersive experience, LITE BRITE: Worlds of Wonder, is a 40-minute cinematic journey that will take you through three themed worlds. Illuminated by thousands of colourful lights, you'll travel through deep ocean, dinosaur-filled rainforests and straight into the future in an experience filled with wonder and delight.
From $12.50, tickets can be booked here
From Saturday 17th August
1 Olympic Drive, Milsons Point
Frolic Amongst Paper Daises at the Australian Botanic Garden Mount Anan
Spring has sprung and so has Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan's 2000 square meters of paper daisies. A sight to behold, the daises are currently half a metre tall and guaranteed to spark joy. They're here for a good time not a long time so pencil in a trip before the season is out.
Sunday 1st September to Sunday 13th October, 8am to 5pm
Connections Garden, Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan
Enjoy a Coastal Meander with Sculpture by the Sea
As the most expensive time of the year approaches, free activities are even more welcome than usual. Luckily, Syndey's Sculpture by the Sea is back and it is, as always, free. More than 100 sculptures by Australian and world-renowned artists will be gracing the 2km long stretch, perfect for perusing with a coffee in hand. Make a day of it and enjoy one of Bondi's best cafes.
Friday 18th October to Monday 4th November
Bondi
What's On in Sydney: Shop
Sydney Ceramics Market
If even the word ceramics gets your heart beating then you'll want to pencil in the Sydney Ceramics Market. With over 120 ceramicists from NSW & ACT, it's set to be the biggest and best event yet. Dream day out.
$6 entry
Saturday 19th to Sunday 20th October, 10am to 5pm
245 Wilson Street, Eveleigh
Glebe Record Fair
Dreams really do come true. Head down to Glebe Record Fair to grab a bargain of a unicorn record from one of over 100 stalls held by both record dealers and private sellers. All genres will be represented so everyone's collection is in for a treat!
Saturday 12th October, early bird entry 9am to 10am ($10), general admission 10am to 4pm ($5)
Peter Forsyth Auditorium
What's On in Sydney: Arts & Culture
Potts Point in Bloom Festival
Potts Point is many a Sydneysiders favourite weekend spot and this October the local retailers are amping it up to celebrate spring! There will be dazzling floral displays woven throughout the precinct with over 30 local retailers set to be involved. Overdue a wander through the area? Now is the time!
Thursday 10th October to Sunday 20th October
Potts Point
Horizon of Khufu: An Immersive Expedition to Ancient Egypt
History lovers gather up. Virtual travel experts Excurio and Egyptologist Peter Der Manuelian have teamed up to craft the ultimate immersive experience. Prepare to journey back 4500 years to the Great Pyramids of Egypt via cutting-edge tech. You'll be able to explore corridors and burial chambers as well as take a boat trip on the Nile and a sunrise flight over to Giza.
From $27, tickets available here
Fever Pavillion, Sydney Olympic Park
Make a Night of it with a themed Sister Act the Musical Dining Deal
Going to the theatre is a special occasion and it deserves to feel like one, too. Five-star Hotel Kimpton Margot's Luke's Kitchen agrees and has announced the perfect dining package, complete with themed cocktails, to get you on your way. Grab two courses for $55 or three for $65 and enjoy the very short walk over to Capitol Theatre afterwards. You'll get to select your favourite dishes from the menu that includes the likes of blessed beef bresaola, Mother Superior's mushroom ravioli and heavenly deep-fried ice-cream. Fancy upping the ante? Book a stay inclusive of dinner and ticket for two for just $400.
From Monday 5th August (available Mondays and from Wednesday to Saturday)
339 Pitt Street, Sydney
What's On in Sydney: Road Trip
Frolic in Golden Fields of Canola
For those who love a 'gram moment or are simply keen to celebrate the arrival of spring there's never been a better time to jump in the car and take a road trip to Cowra. The Canola season starts in August and extends to October and is an absolute delight to take in. There are loads of ways to soak up these golden fields from guided bus tours and sunset tours to balloon flights and even a twilight dinner in the canola. Sound like a bit of you? Head over here for more details.
Make a Weekend of it at Floriade
Spring is just around the corner which means Canberra's annual Floriade festival is too. Make a weekend of it and head down to the capital to celebrate the change in season. There's plenty to do with entertainment, celebrations, food, wine, workshops and market stalls onsite, on top of the incredible displays of florals. It's running for a full month so there's no excuses if you miss it! You can catch the full program here.
Free
Saturday 14th September to Sunday 13th October, 9:30am to 5:30pm daily
Commonwealth Park
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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