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Subscribe What’s On in Sydney: Your Ultimate Guide for December & 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.
Editor’s Pick: Summer Fun
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
Coming Soon: January
Step Inside the Ultimate K-Beauty Playground
K-beauty obsession meets festival energy this January at World of W (WoW), hosted by W Cosmetics. Over three days at Sydney’s ICC Darling Harbour, beauty lovers can swatch, sample, and play their way through the event, with the chance to take home up to $200 in free products. Explore a range of cult K- and J-beauty brands, join interactive games, snap photos in the festival-ready zones and soak up the vibes with a live DJ.
Tickets start from $35 and can be purchased here.
What’s On in Sydney This Month: Top Picks
Free Scoops and Spiked Soft Serve Hit Pier One
Pier One Sydney Harbour is making this December even sweeter by handing out 50 free soft serves every afternoon from 5–6pm, Thursday to Sunday. Called ’50 Scoops of Summer’ the giveaway celebrates Everyday Creamery’s new soft-serve line-up, from classic vanilla to strawberry swirls and matcha moments.
After 6pm, the Kiosk flips into adults-only mode with four spiked soft-serve cocktails (hello yuzu–melon splice and gin–peppercorn), DJs and plenty of vibes. We can’t think of anywhere better to be on a sunny afternoon!
11 Hickson Rd, Dawes Point NSW 2000
A French-Luxe Festive Escape at Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour
December gifting meets five-star indulgence at Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour, where a curated suite of festive vouchers invites you to give well. Choose from champagne-and-oyster moments at Champagne Bar, refined dining at Atelier by Sofitel, restorative rituals at Sofitel Spa, or elevated overnight stays including the Club Millésime experience.
Each option channels French elegance with Sydney Harbour sparkle, turning Christmas gifting into an experience-led pleasure. Ideal for partners, parents or a perfectly timed self-treat, these vouchers deliver celebration, polish and memorable moments wrapped in one impeccable bow.
See the full Sofitel gift suite here.
Hawke’s Turns the Classic ‘Sickie’ Into a Summer Perk
Hawke’s Brewing is celebrating Australia’s most iconic workplace tradition with Operation: Sickie, a tongue-in-cheek summer activation at The Bob Hawke Beer & Leisure Centre. For six prime ‘sick-day’ dates, anyone who can prove they’ve called in sick will score 49% off their bill, slip into incognito seating, and even walk out with a cheeky Bob Hawke–signed sick note. If you’re considering a strategic day off, these are the ones to aim for:
- Tuesday 9 December 2025 — Bob Hawke’s Birthday
- Friday 19 December 2025 — Last Working Friday Before Christmas
- Monday 5 January 2026 — Day 2 at the SCG / First Week Back
- Friday 23 January 2026 — Long Weekend Extender #1
- Monday 27 January 2026 — Long Weekend Extender #2
- Monday 20 February 2026 — The Mardi Gras Warm-Up
8-12 Sydney St, Marrickville NSW 2204
Freshwater’s Free Friday Yoga Is Back
Welcome summer the right way with free sunrise beach yoga at Freshwater. Luxe Yoga Fitness, led by founder Jade Rodriguez, is hosting weekly 6:15am Friday sessions all season long, kicking off on December 5th.
Each class finishes with a refreshing ocean dip, and while the sessions are free, attendees are encouraged to support Lifeline Northern Beaches with a $50 season donation or $10 on the day.
Freshwater Beach
A Missoni Pool Club Has Landed in Sydney. And It’s Stunning
Crown Sydney has unveiled a chic new look for its iconic infinity pool deck… reimagined as a full Missoni resort club. The Italian fashion house has brought its signature zigzags, bold colours and beach-club glamour to the harbour, marking Missoni’s first-ever collaboration with an Australian venue.
Open from now through February, the transformation includes Missoni-patterned daybeds, cabanas and poolside décor, all set against sweeping views of the Sydney skyline. Guests can also browse the brand’s latest resort wear and swim collection from an exclusive on-site cabana. We know where we’ll be lounging this summer!
1 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo NSW 2000
Australia’s First MINISO LAND Has Arrived (and It’s a Pop-Culture Playground)
MINISO has opened its first-ever MINISO LAND in Australia, and Sydney has been given the honour. Taking over a sprawling, design-led space at Westfield Chatswood, the new flagship is part toy haven, part pop-culture museum, and entirely a feast for fans of all things cute and collectible.
There’s themed zones dedicated to global favourites (think Zootopia, Sanrio and more), endless shelves of plush toys and vinyl figures, and immersive displays built for snapping photos. This has really put the fun back into shopping.
350 Victoria Ave, Chatswood NSW 2067
Enjoy Cocktails and Pastries at the Louboutin Bar
Christian Louboutin is bringing a little slice of Paris to Sydney’s CBD with an exclusive pop-up bar. Inside David Jones Elizabeth Street, guests can step into the space and enjoy a curated menu, inspired by the creative spirit of the Maison. There are a few exclusive food and drink items that aren’t to be missed. Top of mind is the signature Loubitini cocktail which features a blend of Papa Salt Coastal Gin, mandarin liqueur and chocolate bitters. Lune Croissanterie has also created an exclusive Loubi Love Cake, which is a croissant filled with pistachio frangipane and a layer of Persian love cake. This is one you’ll want to visit before it’s gone!
Opening hours are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday & Sunday; 10am – 4pm and Thursday & Saturday; 10am-5pm. The bar is running from now until January 5th 2026.
Darling Harbour Just Got a Mezcaleria (Margs, Anyone?)
The vibes are sky-high at Zephyr, with the venue unveiling a seasonal takeover in collaboration with Don Julio Rosado. Channeling the vibrancy and rhythm of Mexico, the new Mezcaleria is a dreamy open-air escape where tequila pours freely.
Expect a lineup of tequila-driven cocktails crafted for golden hour, plates designed for feasting (think flathead tacos and cheese empanadas) and a buzzy atmosphere paired with sunset views. Plus, every Friday the venue is hosting a live bongo player, with DJ sets on every Friday and Saturday night.
Whether you’re chasing after-work elevation or planning a balmy weekend rendezvous, Zephyr’s Mezcaleria is set to be a standout summer ritual. More details here.
Level 12/161 Sussex St, Sydney NSW 2000
Taste the Barossa Valley Without Leaving Sydney
The Château Tanunda x Tayim Progressive Dinner Series has officially launched and it’s shaping up to be spectacular. Held once a month, the experience begins at the Château Tanunda Sydney Cellar Door with a hosted tasting of its wine portfolio, before guests are taken across to Middle Eastern dining destination Tayim. Here, they’ll enjoy a three-course Chef’s Table paired to the Château Tanunda wines previously tasted at the cellar door. Tickets are $195pp and capped at 10 people per session, allowing for a truly exclusive and intimate experience. Upcoming dates are December 11th, February 12th and March 12th. Bookings are available here.
2 Nurses Walk, The Rocks NSW 2000
Festive Fun at Barangaroo, Darling Harbour & The Rocks
Sydney’s holiday season is officially underway, with Barangaroo, Darling Harbour and The Rocks unveiling a huge line-up of Christmas celebrations, waterfront festivities and magical family moments. Expect everything from floating trees and festive concerts to brand-new markets, outdoor movies and surprise performances across the city’s most iconic precincts.
At Darling Harbour, the festivities kick off with the city’s only floating Christmas tree, arriving 21 November. One day later, the Christmas Spectacular brings high-energy madness to the water (think Santa flash mobs, elves on jetpacks and Santa himself cruising in on a jet ski). Later in the season, the Darling Harbour Christmas Festival returns on the 13th December, hosted by TikToker Jayden Rodrigues with live performances throughout the evening.
Over in The Rocks, Christmas takes on a historic glow. The Rocks Market: Christmas Edition lands on the 5th December, packed with local makers and festive flavours, followed by a two-night Homegrown Concert Series (6–7th December) with an all-Australian line-up including Gordi, Mo’Ju, Dobby and Adam Newling. For something slower and sweeter, Laneway Cinema lights up Wednesdays with holiday favourites like The Holiday and Bridget Jones’ Diary under the stars.
Meanwhile, Barangaroo is debuting the city’s freshest festive offerings. Launching on the 21st November, the Barangaroo Markets bring a new mix of local artisans, food stalls and unique gifts to the waterfront. And every Thursday from the 27th November, The Pier Social transforms the new Pier Pavilion into a twilight hangout with live music, sunset drinks and harbour views — perfect for post-work catch-ups with a seasonal sparkle.
The Sky-High Experience Making Solo Dining Chic
Dining solo just got a glamorous upgrade. This summer, Aster Bar at the InterContinental Sydney is celebrating the art of eating (and drinking) alone with Martini for One — a sky-high experience complete with harbour views, bespoke mini martinis, and matching bites that feel anything but solitary. Whether you’re chasing a quiet moment or treating yourself to a little indulgence, this one’s all about sipping, savouring, and celebrating your own company.
Level 32/117 Macquarie St, Sydney NSW 2000
Luxury Escapes Opens a New Travel Boutique in Westfield Bondi
Your next dream getaway is sorted thanks to Luxury Escapes, which has officially landed at Westfield Bondi Junction, marking its first-ever physical store in New South Wales. Expect concierge-style planning, immersive visuals of bucket-list destinations and even in-store specials you won’t find online. Whether you’re plotting a Bali getaway or a Maldives escape, the experts are now on-hand in-person to turn your travel dreams into bookings.
Level 3 (near Oxford St entry), Westfield Bondi Junction, NSW
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
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
What’s On in Sydney: Art
A New First Nations Photography Exhibit at the Australian Museum
A powerful new photographic exhibit has opened at the Australian Museum, sharing first-person experiences and accounts of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living with disabilities in Australia. Titled Unfinished Business, the exhibition showcases groundbreaking 3D lenticular works, sharing raw images and stories of people from remote, regional, and urban communities. Created by Sydney-based human rights documentarian Belinda Mason OAM, with Dieter and Liam Knierim, and developed in collaboration with the First Peoples Disability Network (FPDN), this is an important display of resilience and diversity.
Australian Museum, 1 William Street, Sydney
November 1st 2025 – April 19th 2026
FREE entry
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
Vote for Your Favourites and Watch Them on the Big Screen This Summer
Moonlight Cinema is celebrating 30 summers under the stars, and this year the audience takes the reins. From November 21st, enjoy a season of new releases, family favourites, Christmas classics and retro hits, all outdoors under the night sky. You can even vote for the films you want to see as part of The People’s Program, with the winning picks screening from January to March. Grab a blanket, sip on a cocktail or hot chocolate, and experience movie magic like never before, plus for the first time this summer, pups can snack on a Lyka doggie bag meal too.
Purchase tickets here
Belvedere Amphitheatre, Centennial Parklands |November 21st, 2025 – April 5th, 2026
Step Inside the Green Light: Gatsby Returns This Summer
The party of the season is back. From December 13th to March 1st, GATSBY transforms Sydney into a dazzling playground where 1920s glamour meets modern spectacle. Expect high-flying aerial performances, live music, jaw-dropping choreography and eye-catching costumes at every turn. Sip on inventive cocktails and get lost in a night of immersive entertainment. Whether you’re there to dance, watch the show, or simply soak up the energy, this is Sydney’s ultimate summer celebration, all under the city’s most coveted lights.
This was a sold-out season last time so don’t miss out! Tickets available here.
What’s On in Sydney: Festivals
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.
Click here for tickets.
What’s On in Sydney: Outdoor Adventure
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
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
Cockatoo Island To Bring Back Belove Sunset Sessions
Looking for a place that blends live music, delicious food and wine and one of Sydney’s most iconic backdrops? Cockatoo Island’s Sunset Sessions will return between January 10th and April 4th 2026. Inviting visitors to enjoy picnics on the lawn and a curated program of live music across jazz, RnB, pop and rock, there is plenty to enjoy.
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.
What’s On in Sydney: Coming Later
A faster future could be on the horizon for Sydneysiders, with the Transport Minister revealing that a high-speed rail link may one day whisk travellers from Newcastle to Western Sydney Airport in just 90 minutes.
Under the proposal, the first stage of the Sydney–Newcastle route would include six stops — Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, the Central Coast, Sydney Central, Parramatta and WSI — dramatically cutting travel times. Newcastle to Parramatta could take around 75 minutes, while Newcastle to WSI is projected at roughly an hour and a half, slashing the current journey by more than half. The long-term ambition is a full east-coast network linking Brisbane to Melbourne via Canberra, with trains capable of reaching 200km/h in underground segments.
While transformative, the project comes with major challenges. Minister King noted the immense planning, investment, workforce and multi-government cooperation required to deliver high-speed rail at this scale, and the importance of realistic timelines and rigorous preparation.
Western Sydney Airport is still set to open next year with road and bus access, though its connecting metro line may follow in 2027. The airport has confirmed contingency transport plans will be in place should the metro arrive later than expected. Meanwhile, government funding has been committed to explore future rail extensions across Sydney’s west, signalling that a more connected future is slowly taking shape.
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