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Subscribe What’s On in Sydney: Your Ultimate Guide for May & Beyond
Here's what's on in Sydney this month.
The arrival of May means cooler mornings, majestic sunsets and the last swims of the season — it’s the perfect weather for getting out and about. Sydney’s autumn event calendar is just as swish as the weather with plenty to see, do and eat. From markets and street parties to world-class exhibitions, this May is set to be a busy one. Read on for our edit of what’s on in Sydney this month…
What’s On: Giveaways & Promotions
Indulge In A Caviar Burger At This French-Inspired Pop-Up
For a limited time only, a new French-inspired bistro is gracing Sydney’s buzzing dining scene. Harbour Bistro brings a modern, playful twist to classic French fare — think caviar cheeseburgers, quintessential steak frites, and a show-stopping chocolate mousse. It’s the go-to spot for long lunches and after-work rendezvous. Plus, if you swing by on a Tuesday, you’ll get 50% off steak frites, or on Friday, you’re in for a treat with bottomless chocolate mousse served from the pot. It’s the perfect way to wrap up a busy week.
Keen to try it for free? Win the ultimate date night for two valued at $700. Begin the evening chauffeured by boat to Pier One’s private pontoon, indulge in delicious, handcrafted cocktails, French-inspired dishes and caviar burgers, all with a side of waterfront harbour views. Sound like the perfect date night? Head over to the Sitchu Instagram to enter. Hurry, competition ends 9am Thursday 5th June.
30th April to 20th July 2025
Harbour Bistro by Pier One, 11 Hickson Road, Dawes Point
What’s On: Seasonal Menus
Farm-To-Table Flavours & Gluten-Free Dining At Its Best at The Botanica Vaucluse
There’s nothing we love more than a seasonal menu—discovering new flavours coupled with the freshest ingredients. Championing local produce with every bite, The Botanica Vaucluse’s Autumn/Winter menu is a love letter to farm-to-table dining—think coeliac-safe baked goods from Wholegreen Bakery, ethically sourced seafood from Cummins Seafood, as well as fragrant herbs, juicy citrus, and mouth-watering berries plucked straight from the restaurant’s flourishing garden. Every dish is a celebration of flavour and freshness.
Sitchu tip: Don’t leave without trying the steamed Murray cod—paired with grilled greens and parsnip sauce, it’s the kind of dish you dream about after.
Monday to Friday, 9am to 9:30pm. Kids eat free on Friday from 12pm and Saturday from 5pm. T&C’s apply.
The Botanica Vaucluse, 2 Laguna Street, Vaucluse
What’s On: Coming Soon
Pop Into This Immersive Bubble Fantasy Landing in Sydney
Get ready to step out of the ordinary and into a dreamy, kaleidoscopic world—Bubble Planet: An Immersive Experience is landing at Sydney Olympic Park on June 6, and it’s set to be one of the most joy-sparking events of the season. Already a global phenomenon, this interactive wonderland has delighted millions in cities like London, Milan, and LA, and now it’s Sydney’s turn to dive into the magic.
Hosted at the Paddington Pavilion, the experience spans more than 10 fantastical rooms, each more surreal and Insta-worthy than the last. From a giant bubble bath ball pit to an immersive underwater LED room, an endless infinity chamber to a virtual reality journey through a dreamy metaverse — this isn’t your average art show. Expect bubbles, colour, play, and a serious dose of nostalgia, all wrapped into one epic sensory escape.
Whether you’re going with mates, a date, or the little ones in tow, Bubble Planet is the ultimate mood-booster and memory-maker.
Opens June 6
Tickets on sale May 8, book here
Nightshift: A Winter Solstice Festival in Redfern
Redfern’s Wunderlich Lane is set to transform into a nocturnal playground with Nightshift, a week-long winter solstice festival running from June 16 to 22. This immersive celebration brings together the precinct’s standout venues for seven nights of feasting, live music, and cultural experiences.
Festival highlights include a Greek-inspired banquet at Olympus, a late-night jazz session at Bar Julius, and a noodle rave at Island Radio. Attendees can also enjoy Italo disco parties, hot toddies, and mulled wine as they explore the laneway’s vibrant offerings. Tickets for Nightshift are now on sale and the events are sold separately.
June 16 — 22
Wunderlich Lane Redfern
Sydney’s Sweetest Pop-Up: Madeleine de Proust Pâtisserie x Valrhona
This June, Sydney’s dessert scene gets a dose of cult-status sweetness as Madeleine de Proust Pâtisserie lands in town for a two-day-only pop-up — in partnership with iconic French chocolate house Valrhona. Known for their viral creations (yes, that corn one), the Melbourne-based pastry studio is bringing its small-batch madeleine magic to Simon Johnson Providore in Alexandria, with an exclusive menu crafted using Valrhona’s luxe couverture.
From the best-selling Earl Grey Dulcey to the limited-edition Golden Ginger Bear, Strawberry Matcha, and the walk-in-only Poppin’ Corn, each madeleine is a bite-sized work of art — beautifully boxed and utterly irresistible.
Pre-orders are now open and highly recommended, with limited quantities available for walk-ins. Bonus? Every purchase includes a free Valrhona hot chocolate and mini madeleines (while stocks last), plus complimentary chocolate tastings.
Friday 13 & Saturday 14 June, 10am–5pm (or until sold out)
Simon Johnson Providore, 24A Ralph Street, Alexandria
Pre-order here
Sydney’s Natural Wine Party ‘Huge Moves‘ Returns
Wine lovers, mark your calendars. Next Month, Huge Moves is back at The International in Surry Hills for an all-day celebration of lo-fi, minimal-intervention wines.
Curated by DRNKS founder Joel Amos, this year’s event boasts over 150 natural drops from top local and international producers. Expect a vibrant atmosphere with rooftop DJ sets, delectable bites from The Grill, and a community of fellow wine enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or just wine-curious, this is one event you won’t want to miss.
Saturday, June 7
The International, Surry Hills
Christmas in July at The Rocks
This winter, The Rocks will transform into a European-style festive village as the Christmas in July Festival returns from July 11 to 20. Expect fairy-lit laneways, towering nutcrackers, and the scent of melted cheese wafting through the air.
The highlight is Snow Lane — a dreamy trail lined with real pine trees and fluttering snow machines, creating a picture-perfect winter wonderland. Over 20 pop-up eateries will serve cold-weather classics like bubbling raclette, gooey fondue, Austrian schnitzels, and sugar-dusted waffles. Warm up with spicy mulled wine or decadent hot chocolate topped with toasted marshmallows.
Live music, festive editions of The Rocks Jazz Sessions on Thursday nights, and artisan markets offering handmade ceramics, woolly winter wear, and gourmet treats round out the experience.
Opens July 11
The Rocks, Sydney
Dogs After Dark
Okay. Our dream festival has just dropped. This winter, Dogs After Dark will be popping up for one night only, transforming The Domain into the ultimate glow-in-the-dark pup playground. There will be a doggy disco, glow-in-the-dark collars, off-leash zoomie zones, canine caricature artists, and edible treats for all the doggos and their humans, too. And behind it all, a good cause. Natural joint supplement for dogs, Antinol, will be raising awareness of an oft-overlooked issue — canine joint health. Doggos are encouraged to swing by the Healthy Hounds Marquee for free check-ups and advice. Obsessed.
$15 per person (2 dogs per adult)
Saturday 14th June, 5pm to 8:30pm
The Domain
What’s On: New Openings
Sweat It Out at Decathlon’s New CBD Fitness Studio
Global sports retailer Decathlon has just opened its first Australian fitness studio—and it’s making movement more accessible than ever. Nestled within the brand’s shiny new 550 sqm Wynyard store, the studio is hosting a month-long lineup of budget-friendly fitness classes, from $15 yoga and mat Pilates sessions to free Lagree Microformer workouts.
The main event? Puppy Pilates. Yep, you read that right. On Saturday 17th May, join one of two adorably chaotic classes for just $25, with all proceeds going to the RSPCA. Spots are limited and on sale via Eventbrite — don’t snooze.
Level 2, 327-329 George St, Sydney
Give Pickle-Ball a Crack at This Newly-Opened Club
Like most Sydneysiders, we’re obsessed with Pickle Ball so when we heard The Jar was opening a dedicated club WITH a bar, we knew the next team bonding activity would be a winner. There are a range of options available if you’d like to get out on the court. The social programs, ranging from Ladies Night to Pickle & Prosecco are all about fun whilst open-play sessions for all abilities will satiate the competitive.
Level 1/100 Bulwara Road, Pyrmont
Experience Sydney’s Newest Waterfront Public Space
Barangaroo is constantly evolving and the latest addition to one of our favourite harbour-side suburbs is now open to the public. Pier Pavillion is a striking open oculus perfect for a protected picnic. Designed by architects Besley & Spresser, the space has been crafted with custom ‘oyster terrazzo’ using whole Sydney rock oyster shells. New sunset picnic dinner spot secured.
Waterman Cove, Barangaroo
What’s On: Pop-Ups & Events
Gin & Jazz at The Apollo
Monthly Sunday Sessions are back at The Apollo kicking off this week with live jazz and pink martinis to accompany the Potts Point mainstay’s iconic Greek menu.
The popular Gin & Jazz is returning for five sessions across five months from May to September starting this weekend with smooth grooves delivered within the intimate dining lounge. Whether you’re settling in for a regular feast or keen to try out the exclusive Gin & Jazz menu (available only on the day for $95pp), gather the group and kick back with the soothing sounds of the sax. Now that’s a Sunday well spent.
12pm–4pm, the last Sunday of every month May-September
The Apollo, 44 Macleay St, Potts Point
Live Jazz Sessions in The Rocks
Running every Thursday for the month of May, enjoy soulful, toe-tapping performances from local jazz musicians in the heart of The Rocks. In a quiet square away from the noise of the city’s traffic, enjoy an alfresco experience, set against the backdrop of Sydney’s most historic laneways, complete with cocktails from Hickson Distilling Co and nibbles from Snake Bar. The best part? No bookings needed! Just show up, grab a drink, and enjoy!
But that’s not all! When the jazz performances wrap up for the evening, head over to Hickson House Distilling Co for The Late Set, for more live jazz, cocktails and even a $35 burger deal.
Every Thursday 6pm to 8pm
The Late Set continues from 8:30pm to 10:30pm
The Rocks Square, Playfair St, The Rocks
Art-Inspired High Tea at Sofitel Sydney Wentworth
Blurring the lines between fine art and fine dining, Sofitel Sydney Wentworth is celebrating the 2025 Archibald Prize with a stunningly reimagined High Tea experience.
Held in the luxurious Velvet Room, the table blooms with garden-inspired creations—from pistachio opera cake and blueberry choux to an indulgent artisan cart offering smoked salmon, charcuterie, and freshly baked baguettes.
Weekends, 1pm to 3pm, from May 10 to August 17
Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, 61-101 Phillip Street, Sydney
What’s On in Sydney: Winter Deals
Save 20% on an Evening Kayak Tour With This Exclusive Winter Deal
Love local marine life? Why not book yourself into an evening kayak tour with Showtime Kayak? Enjoy front-row seats to nature’s nighttime spectacle beneath your illuminated kayak. Available at Naru Beach in Lake Macquarie (just 90 minutes from the hustle and bustle of Sydney), use the code WINTERDEAL to score yourself 20% off a two-hour Naru Beach Night Kayak tour with Showtime Kayaking.
Naru Beach, Lake Macquarie
What’s On in Sydney: Eat & Drink
Pana Organic & Whole Green Bakery Team Up with a Limited-Edition Hazelnut Cookie
Who doesn’t love an excuse for a sweet treat? This week, the teams behind Pana Organic and Whole Green Bakery have collaborated on a limited-edition, vegan triple chocolate cookie. Available across all three Syndey locations for this week only, the decadent, triple-chocolate, hazelnut-loaded cookie is the perfect way to satiate your sugar cravings.
Made with Pana Organic Mylk and White chocolate and an added layer of Pana Organic Chocolate/Hazelnut spread for extra gooey goodness; you might find yourself going back every day. The best part? It’s 100% vegan and gluten-free.
Available at all Whole Green Bakery locations across Sydney
Limited-Edition Tokyo Banana Matcha Latte at Sneaker Laundry
The Sneaker Laundry has teamed up with PUSHAS to launch a limited-edition Banana Matcha drink, blending rich Marukyu Koyamaen matcha with a sweet banana twist.
Available now at their Martin Place café, this unique concoction is a must-try for matcha enthusiasts and curious sippers alike. But hurry, this one won’t be around for long.
Basement 3, Martin Place Metro, Sydney
Soak Up Luxe Hour at Catalina
Catalina is inviting you to soak up the best part of the day with seafood antipasto platters and a selection of light and bright cocktails. With one of the best waterfront views in Sydney, we can’t think of anywhere we’d rather be come golden hour. For $80 per person, you can enjoy a Catalina Martini, Rossini or spritz, served from the trolley, as well as signature bites ranging from mud crab crumpets, tuna crudo and tempura prawns. A new tradition? We think so!
$80 per person
Monday to Friday, 4pm to 7pm
New South Head Road, Rose Bay
Celebrate 150 Years of GPO With This Opulent Heritage Afternoon Tea at the Fullerton Sydney
The Fullerton Hotel Sydney is offering a delightful Heritage Afternoon Tea experience that is filled with a selection of delectable bites that taste as good as they look—including our personal favourite, the Malted Milk Envelope dessert that’s (almost) too adorable to eat. Expect fluffy scones and more-ish cucumber sandwiches against a backdrop of grand infrastructure.
For just $78 per person, you can enjoy a Heritage Afternoon Tea, including TWG Tea or Vittoria Coffee. If you want to take it up a notch, you can upgrade to a free-flowing organic Canti Prosecco service for an additional $20.
And for those who are feeling more extravagant, $88 per person will get you the Heritage Afternoon Tea experience with a flute of Chandon Sparkling Wine. Or, for $98 per person, you can pair your sweet delights with a crisp glass of Veuve Clicquot Label Brut NV champagne.
Book this unmissable Heritage Afternoon Tea experience here.
Available from 3rd March until 31st May 2025, 12pm to 4pm.
The Fullerton Hotel, Sydney
Celebrate Aussie Food and Drink at Savour Sydney
A one day foodie event, Savour Sydney brings together some of Sydney and the state’s most exciting restaurants and bars for an afternoon of eating, drinking and learning. Curated by chef Matt Moran, there’ll be talks, pop-up food stalls from Aria, Chiswick, Rekōdo and North Bondi Fish, as well as drink stations from acclaimed local and regional outfits and even live music.
The event has partnered with IndigiGrow, a First Nations-owned social enterprise dedicated to preserving, growing and celebrating native Australians, with most dishes and drinks at the event (think pine mushroom & smoked cheddar tarts, strawberry gum sandos and cinnamon myrtle custard tarts) showcasing native ingredients.
Tickets start from $50 and includes four dishes from a ticketholders-only menu from the stalls, plus a welcome drink. Alternatively, guests can purchase individually from each vendor’s menu, with dishes starting from $15.
Saturday May 3rd, 12pm to 5pm
Opera Bar, Sydney Opera House
Take a Flavourful Journey Through NSW at Pyrmont Festival
For one weekend in May, Pyrmont’s Pirrama Park transforms into a buzzing hub of gourmet delights, award-winning wines, craft beers, gins, cocktails and live entertainment—all with the stunning Sydney Harbour as a picture-perfect backdrop.
Now in its 13th year, Pyrmont Festival showcases the very best of the state’s wine, produce and food scene, bringing together winemakers, brewers, distillers, food producers and artisans from across the state alongside some of Pyrmont’s finest local businesses. This year’s highlights? A Japanese Aburi bar and a Cheeky Naked Oyster Bar from Sydney Fish Market.
The best part? Entry is completely free.
Saturday May 17th & Sunday May 18th
Pirrama Park, Pyrmont
Naturellement Festival
Food and drink lovers, you’ll want to plan a little Central Coast sojourn because Naturellement Festival is back for two days of celebrating the good stuff. Artisan, natural, organic and small-batch drink producers will be front and centre whilst local producers and award-winning Aussie chefs provide sustenance for one and all. Sustainability, creativity and regional identity are the name of the game so if you’re keen to support people doing good things, you’ll want to pencil this one in.
The full food program is yet to be announced but you can look forward to legends like Jake Kellie (Arkhe) and Matt Stone (Ciao Mate, You Beauty) as well as locals Nico Coccia (El Bulli), John Ralley (Textbook Patisserie) and Joshua Mason (Atelier Crenn) amongst others. Masterclasses, talks and conversations will also be part and parcel of the event.
Saturday 17th May to Sunday 18th May
Tickets from $55, available here
The Galleria, Ettalong Beach
Find Your New Favourite Brew at GABS Beer Festival
Globally recognised as one of the best beer festivals in the world, GABS (the Great Australasian Beer SpecTAPular) is headed to Sydney this May. There’ll be more than 500 beer taps to choose from, as well as cocktails, whisky, wine, seltzers and more, provided by the most incredibly breweries and top distillers across Australia and New Zealand.
There are also opportunities to meet brewers and hear the stories behind the sips, great food available from local street food vendors, live music, a silent disco, beer games, masterclasses, tastings and more. Tickets start from just $42 and include a complimentary tasting glass, $250 worth of vouchers to use at the event, and entry to the silent disco.
Friday May 30th to Saturday May 31st
ICC Sydney, Darling Harbour
What’s On in Sydney: Outdoor Adventure
Visit Sydney Zoo’s Cute New Fury Friends: Quokkas
If you’ve been eager to snap a selfie with these adorable furry marsupials, now is your time! Three smiley quokkas have officially made their way east, landing at Sydney Zoo for the first time ever this month.
Native to Rottnest Island in Western Australia, quokkas have been far out of reach for most Australians. But in good news for all on the east coast, Sydney Zoo has welcomed three quokkas (one male and two females) to NSW for the first time ever. You can catch these notoriously joyful furry friends at Sydney Zoo in Eastern Creek—a perfect excuse for a day out.
Tickets from $20
Sydney Zoo, 700 Great Western Highway, Eastern Creek
Nocturnal Returns to the Blue Mountains
After a sold-out debut season, you can see the Blue Mountains in a whole new light with Nocturnal, an immersive nighttime experience exclusive to Scenic World. With holographic native creatures, projection mapping across ancient rock formations and an illuminated interpretation of the secret language of the forest, the rainforest is transformed with an unforgettable and mesmerising sensory experience.
See a holographic lyrebird basking the moonlight, enjoy a forest walk between illuminated ancient trees and descend into the night on the world’s steepest railway on select nights from Thursday April 3rd until Sunday May 11th. Tickets sell out fast so be sure to secure your spot quickly!
Thursday April 3rd until Sunday May 11th
Tickets from $54.90 for adults and $40.90 for kids (free for those under three).
Scenic World, Katoomba
Take a Spin on One of Sydney’s New Electric Picnic Boats
Soak up some autumn sun on an environmentally friendly picnic boat this April — no boat licence required! Set sail from The Spit in Mosman with up to seven friends, furry ones included, and a packed picnic. Sounds like the perfect day out to us!
Available from 9th April
From $149
D’Albora Marina, Mosman
What’s On in Sydney: Arts & Culture
Enjoy Soulful Sounds at Jazz Sessions in The Rocks
Jazz Sessions in The Rocks is back and bigger than ever, with an extended season running from now until the end of September. In what may just be the best after-work activity of the season, The Rocks Square will be filled with the captivating sounds of Australian jazz every Thursday night.
Enjoy a curated lineup of jazz’s finest in an intimate, al fresco experience set against the backdrop of some of Sydney’s most historic laneways. Signature cocktails from Hickson House Distilling Co. are also on offer, so you can sip on a Gin Jazz & Tonic, The Fizz’gerald or Swinging Negroni as you soak up the evening’s atmosphere. Or score a cocktail and two Thai dishes from Snake Bark for just $25.
Good food, good drinks and good (free) music? Count us in.
Every Thursday from 6pm to 8:30pm, April 3rd until September 25th
The Rocks Square
Get Ready to Laugh Out Loud at Sydney Comedy Festival
They say laughter is the best medicine, and what better way to get a good dose of the LOLs than with Sydney Comedy Festival.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the largest comedy event in NSW, with more than 350 artists will take part in this year’s festival, including fan favourites Arj Barker, Rhys Nicholson, Melanie Bracewell and Jimeoin.
This year, for the first time ever, the Sydney Comedy Festival Comedy Crawl will come to life, featuring a surprise line-up at surprise venues, wth attendees moving from bar to bar for each set. In another festival first, Break Out will see four emerging comedians workshop new material with the support of industry experts.
To see the full program and buy tickets, head here.
Monday 21st April to Sunday 18th May
Various venues
Sydney Writers’ Festival
With more than 40 international guests and over 100 Australian authors taking part (34 of which are releasing brand new books this year), Sydney Writers’ Festival—which takes place from May 19 to May 27—is the place to discover brilliant writing and take part in important conversations.
Highlighting extraordinary novels, poetry and writing of all kinds, this year’s theme is In This Together, and events will be focused on discussing a range of major topics, like the future of artificial intelligence, First Nations truth-telling and feminism’s next battleground.
Not sure where to start? These are the five events you don’t want to miss in this year’s lineup.
Monday May 19th to Tuesday May 27th
Various venues in Sydney
Explore Port Macquarie’s Vibrant Art Scene
While a little further than Sydney’s city limits, ArtWalk is an annual event that celebrates the vibrant art scene of Port Macquarie, and it’s well worth the visit.
The streets of the coastal haven come to life with a variety of artworks displayed in galleries, shops and public spaces, with a diverse range of art on display (think painting, sculpture, photographer, live performances, exhibitions, illuminations, markets, installations and more) .
A unique opportunity to be immersed in the town’s culture, history and creativity, there’ll be food trucks and stalls open all night so you can satisfy any cravings you work up while walking and indulging in the art.
Friday June 6th, 5 pm to 9 pm
Port Macquarie CBD
Astronomy at The Calyx
Join First Nations astronomer and Astrophysicist Dr Ángel Lopez -Sanchez to explore the night sky over a glass of wine. You’ll receive a 101 on everything from space volcanoes to dark energy whilst soaking up the serenity of the Botanic Gardens. You’ll also get the op to view the stars through a powerful telescope. A very wholesome way to spend the evening indeed!
From $37 per person, tickets available here
Tuesday 3rd June
The Calyx, Sydney Botanic Gardens
Start Your Art Collection at The Other Art Fair
An art fair, but not as you know it, The Other Art Fair aims to make art accessible to all. Presented by the world’s leading online art gallery, SaatchiArt.com, and popping up in major cities around the globe, the fair returns to Sydney this May. Expect boundary-pushing yet always affordable works with immersive installations, performances and even the odd tattoo or taxidermy class thrown in (yes, really).
This year’s event will see over a hundred independent artists with thousands of artworks take over White Bay Cruise Terminal for four days.
Tickets from $22.
Thursday May 8th to Sunday May 11th
White Bay Cruise Terminal, James Craig Road, Rozelle
Take an Emotional Journey Through the Titanic’s True Stories
Docking in Sydney next month, Titanic. The Human Story takes visitors on a captivating journey through the life and legacy of the Titanic. Featuring more than 200 objects and personal artefacts from both passengers and crew members, the exhibition retells the very human side of the ship’s famous sinking more than a century ago.
After a notable tour across America and the UK, and a visit to Brisbane last year, Sydneysiders can soon travel back in time through photographs, handwritten letters, wayward keepsakes and other personal belongings that tell countless stories about the live (and fates) of those on board the “unsinkable” ship.
Tickets are available for pre-purchase from April 9, with the waitlist open now.
Starts May 30th, tickets from $39
Walsh Bay Arts Precinct Pier 2/3, 13A Hickson Road, Dawes Point
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.
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