What’s On in Sydney: Your Ultimate Guide for July & Beyond

This month in Sydney (July 2026), we’re settling into proper winter, with cool, clear days and crisp evenings that make the city feel alive in a different way. From free jazz in The Rocks and an immersive after-dark trail at Sydney Zoo to Italian street feasts in Leichhardt, wine dinners in Vaucluse and the Archibald Prize at its annual best, our editors rate this one of the city’s most quietly brilliant months. Now is the time to book ahead for a long lunch, catch a show before the cold sets in or find a reason to stay out late.

Read on for tickets, dates and timings.

Editor’s Picks:

Suntory House Brings Tokyo Izakaya Nights to Sydney’s CBD

Suntory House is returning to Sydney for its third year in a row, taking over Sakura House in the CBD for a two-month residency from July 31 to October 3. This year’s residency leans into the lively spirit of a Tokyo izakaya, inspired by Japan’s nomikai drinking culture and inspired by Suntory’s global movement to bring authentic Japanese drinking culture to the world and “inspire the brilliance of life”. Serving up creative cocktails like the melon-inspired Mazda Zoom Zoom and wasabi-spiked Nagano Sawa alongside Suntory classics and paired with elevated share plates such as Famichiki-style fried chicken with smoked bonito cream and caviar, mini Balmain bug katsu sandos, aburi salmon temaki, and strawberry Pocky mochi ice-cream. The final touch? Putting their very own playful spin on Japan’s iconic vending machine culture, you’ll find exclusive merch, Japanese snacks and prizes.

Where: Sakura House, Sydney
When: Friday, 31 July to Saturday, 3 October. Monday to Saturday: 5pm til late
Cost: Free entry, drinks and share plates at additional cost
Best For: Couples, Group catch-ups, Girls’ nights
Need to Know: No bookings—walk-ins only.

Sydney’s Most Epic Padel Court Is Coming

Sydney’s most iconic landmark is swapping performances for padel this August, with a custom-built glass court taking over the Opera House’s Northern Broadwalk for one unforgettable weekend. Expect showcase matches featuring Pat Rafter, Casey Dellacqua and some of the world’s top players, alongside celebrity games, live entertainment and community sessions. Better yet, you can throw your name in the ballot for the chance to step onto the spectacular harbourfront court and play alongside the pros yourself.

Where: Northern Broadwalk, Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney
When: Saturday 15 – Sunday 16 August 2026
Cost: Tickets from $30
Best For: Sports fans; Community events; Locals; Visitors; Outdoor enthusiasts
Need to Know: A custom-built glass court will be installed on the Northern Broadwalk overlooking Sydney Harbour. Enter the ballot for the chance to play on the court alongside the pros. Showcase matches feature Pat Rafter, Casey Dellacqua and top international players.

Bondi Beach Just Got Even More Picture-Perfect

The photo booth that’s had all of Byron Bay lining up has finally made the trip south. Love Letters Photo Booth built its following around simple idea, black-and-white photo strips that give you something to actually hold onto after a date night or day out. Bondi now gets its own version of the setup right along the beach, behind a red door and a lace curtain, and it looks every bit as charming as you’d expect.

Where: 95 Gould Street, Bondi Beach
When: Open daily, 10am–8pm (ongoing)
Cost: $9 for three photos and two printed strips
Best For: Couples; Group catch-ups; Girls’ nights; Locals; Visitors
Need to Know: Black-and-white photo strips printed in minutes. Walk-in, no booking required.

Mahjong Meets Yum Cha on This Vibey Night Out

No Flowers is celebrating its first birthday with two seriously fun takeovers that are already selling quickly. First up, Emperor’s Garden hosts an evening of mahjong on July 23rd, with an exclusive eight-course Cantonese feast and of course, cream puffs to finish. If you can’t make that one, the club is also heading to Wondercade on July 31st, where retro arcade games, pinball and friendly mahjong battles collide for one very nostalgic night out.

Where: Emperor’s Garden and Wondercade
When: Thursday 23 July 2026, 6pm–9:30pm & Friday 31 July 2026, 6pm–9pm
Cost: From $80 per person (includes arrival drink, cream puffs and 8-course family-style Cantonese dinner) & from $20 per person (includes a complimentary drink, light snacks and arcade tokens)
Best For: Food lovers; Community events; ; Group catch-ups; Cultural experiences; Nightlife

Festivals & Major Events

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This Is a Big Night for Big Little Lies Fans

Big Little Lies fans, mark the calendar. Liane Moriarty takes to the Concert Hall stage on 24 August for a tell-all conversation ahead of the release of her long-awaited sequel, Big Little Truths, picking up after Perry Wright’s death at the Pirriwee High trivia night. She’ll be joined by Bruna Papandrea, the producer behind the Hollywood adaptation, for a chat covering her most famous story and the ideas behind it. Copies of the new book will be available on the night from Dymocks, so early birds can walk away with one of the first in the country.

Tickets purchased here.

Where: Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney
When: Sunday 24 August 2026
Cost: From $39
Best For: Cultural experiences; Art lovers; Girls’ nights; Solo plans; Locals
Need to Know: Liane Moriarty will be in conversation with producer Bruna Papandrea. Copies of Big Little Truths available to purchase on the night from Dymocks, which are among the first available in the country.

A Lantern Wonderland Awaits Near Sydney

If you’re looking for a magical winter activity, this one’s worth the drive. Lightfields has transformed The Vineyard into a glowing wonderland filled with more than 70 illuminated lantern sculptures, from towering cockatoos and colourful chameleons to giant ladybugs and glowing barns. Wander the trail before warming up with marshmallows, carnival games, a silent disco and themed cocktails, with tickets from just $5 for kids and $10 for adults. This is the kind of event that makes the cold weather feel worth it!

Where: Lightfields at The Vineyard Sydney
When: Monday 1 June – Sunday 30 August 2026, nightly. Weeknights from 5pm; weekends from 4pm.
Cost: From $5 (+ booking fee) for kids; $10 (+ booking fee) for adults; under 2s free.
Best For: Families; Kids; Couples; Group catch-ups; Outdoor enthusiasts; School holidays
Need To Know: Over 70 large-scale glowing sculptures across an outdoor walk-through experience. Includes free silent disco, arcade games, warm food and drinks, and a Glow Cart with show bags and snacks. Located in North-West Sydney — allow travel time from the CBD.

Eat & Drink

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This Paddington Pub Is Making Mondays Magical

After a year of sell-out events and growing waitlists, Paddo Inn is turning its cult-favourite experiences into a monthly Monday night ritual. On the first Monday of every month, Paddo Nights Inn blends wine, Italian bites and expert-led sessions in an intimate format designed for a relaxed midweek night out. Upcoming sessions are centred around tarot and astrology.

This sounds like a goodie! Bookings made here.

Where: Paddo Inn, 338 Oxford St, Paddington NSW 2021
When: Monday August 3rd
Cost: $60pp
Best for: Unique experiences, Girls’ night, Date night, Intimate events
Need to know: This is a new monthly series and includes wine, Italian bites and an expert-led experience; bookings are essential.

Book This Milestone Wine Dinner at the International

To mark four decades of winemaking, Howard Park Wines is hosting an intimate 45-person dinner at The International that you won’t want to miss. Chief Winemaker Nic Bowen and second-generation vigneron Richard Burch will guide guests through a four-course menu paired with current and rare museum releases from the Howard Park portfolio, spanning Jeté sparkling, Rieslings and Icon Wines from both the Great Southern and Margaret River. This is going to be a memorable evening for wine lovers!

Purchase tickets here.

Where: The Seidler Room, The International, Sydney
When: Tuesday 21 July 2026
Cost: $375pp (includes four-course dinner, wine pairings, limited-edition RIEDEL glass and signed collector’s edition Icon wine)
Best For: Wine lovers; Food & drink lovers; Premium experiences; Couples; Corporate entertaining
Need To Know: Intimate event limited to 45 guests — book early to secure a place. Guests take home a limited-edition RIEDEL Performance Cabernet glass and a signed collector’s edition Icon wine.

The Gin and Jazz Event We’re Adding to the Diary

Potts Point favourite The Apollo is giving the people what they want with the return of its beloved Gin & Jazz series. Taking over the dining room on the last Sunday of every month from March to September, this long lunch pairs live sets with flowing cocktails from Four Pillars Gin and the restaurant’s signature Greek feast. Settle in for the set menu or dive into the à la carte and banquet options, depending on your appetite. As history has shown, this will be a buzzy affair that will see you ending the weekend on a high note!

Bookings made here.

Where: 44 Macleay St, Potts Point NSW 2011
When: Last Sunday of every month, March to September 2026
Cost: $95pp for the Gin & Jazz menu with welcome cocktail
Best For: Date night, Foodies, Group dining, Long lunch
Need To Know: Live jazz by Arthur Washington & Band and Soundcliff Jazz Trio, with Four Pillars Gin cocktails alongside The Apollo’s Greek feast, with à la carte and banquet options also available.

This Weekend Is a Gluten-Free Foodie’s Dream

If you thought gluten-free meant missing out, think again. Returning to Sydney this August is the Gluten-Free Expo, packed with chef demos, hands-on workshops, expert talks, family entertainment and more than 45 exhibitors serving up everything from pantry staples to sweet treats. Whether you’re coeliac, gluten intolerant or simply looking to discover new products, it’s the perfect place to discover the GF scene, and put a rest to the rumour that no gluten = boring.

Where: Kensington Room, Royal Randwick Racecourse, Randwick
When: Saturday 15 – Sunday 16 August 2026
Cost: Coeliac Australia members: Free. Online — General Admission: $31.90 (+ booking fee); Concession/Full-Time Student: $23.10 (+ booking fee). At the door — General Admission: $35; Concession: $28.
Best For: Food lovers; Food & drink lovers; Community events; Families; Locals
Need To Know: More than 45 exhibitors plus chef demos, workshops and expert talks. Coeliac Australia members attend free — bring proof of membership. Booking online is cheaper than purchasing at the door.

Singapore’s Hawker Hits Are Coming to the CBD

The Fullerton Hotel is teaming up with its sister property in Singapore for The Singapore Table; a delicious, hawker-style lunch buffet landing right in the CBD. Senior Sous Chef Christopher Chia is flying in to run The Place’s kitchen, serving up Hainanese Chicken Rice, Char Kway Teow, Chilli Crab Lala, Laksa and Satay Chicken (we’re salivating, already).

Bookings here.

Where: The Fullerton Hotel Sydney
When: Friday 17 July – Saturday 8 August 2026, Monday to Saturday, 12pm–3pm
Cost: $69.95 per person; $35 per child (5–11 years); complimentary for children under 5. Select dates (20 July, 27 July, 3 August) offer 25% off — $52 per person. Maximum 10 people per booking.
Best For: Food lovers; Food & drink lovers; Families; Corporate entertaining; Visitors
Need To Know: Book on 20 July, 27 July or 3 August for 25% off. Discount cannot be combined with other hotel offers.

Art, Culture & Performance

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Make a Date With the Archibald Prize Before August

If you only make it to one exhibition this year, make it the Archibald. Australia’s most anticipated annual art event is back at the Art Gallery of NSW until 16 August, and it never gets old. This year’s show brings together the full trio — the Archibald Prize for portraiture, the Wynne Prize for landscape painting and figurative sculpture, and the Sulman Prize for subject and genre painting.

Sitchu Tip: Midweek visitors get 2-for-1 tickets on Wednesday nights from 5pm to 10pm. From $30 for adults.

One ticket covers all three, and the sheer range of what Australian and New Zealand artists are doing with portraiture right now is worth the trip alone. Don’t skip Young Archie on the ground floor either, it’s a free display of work by artists aged 5 to 18 is one of the most joyful rooms in the building. While you’re there, vote for your favourite portrait in the ANZ People’s Choice award for a chance to win $2,000.

Where: Art Gallery Rd, Sydney NSW 2000
When: Daily 10am – 5pm, Wednesdays 10am – 10pm. Until 16 August 2026
Cost: From $30 adults (weekdays); $32 adults (weekends and public holidays). Concession $27/$29. Youth (12-17) $10. Children under 12 free. Family (2 adults + up to 3 youth) $70. 2-for-1 tickets on Wednesday nights 5pm – 10pm.
Best For: Art lovers; Exhibitions; Families; Cultural experiences; Weekend plans
Need To Know: One ticket covers all three prizes — Archibald, Wynne and Sulman.

Come One, Come All: The Greatest Show Is Here

If you’ve ever watched The Greatest Showman and thought “I wish this was real”, we’ve got good news. Come Alive! The Greatest Showman Circus Spectacular has pitched up at the Big Top in Moore Park’s Entertainment Quarter, and it’s every bit as extra as you’d hope. Inspired by the 2017 film, this original live production brings together world-class aerialists, fire acts and jaw-dropping acrobatics, all set to those Grammy-winning anthems you definitely still have saved in a playlist (be honest).

This Is Me, Rewrite the Stars, A Million Dreams, all reimagined for a live circus setting that puts you right in the middle of the action. Tickets start from $60, so honestly, what are you waiting for?

Tickets here.

Where: 122 Lang Road, Moore Park, NSW 2021
When: May 19 to July 26, 2026
Cost: From $60
Best For: Families, Kids, Couples, Theatre lovers, Weekend plans
Need To Know: An original live production inspired by the 2017 film, featuring aerialists, fire acts and acrobatics set to the film’s soundtrack.

Spotify Is Bringing Free Gigs to Redfern

Spotify is reviving the classic pub gig and making it completely free. Turn Up Aus is a series of intimate live performances at The Bat & Ball in Redfern, running June through November, designed to get top fans closer to their favourite artists than a festival ever could. The lineup so far includes Hooligan Hefs on 24 June and Genesis Owusu on 29 July, with more artists still to be announced. Can’t score an invite? There are double passes to win, plus a major prize that’ll fly two lucky winners cross-state for the gig. Worth entering, we think.

Where: The Bat & Ball Hotel, 495 Cleveland Street, Redfern, Sydney
When: June – November 2026; Hooligan Hefs 24 June from 7pm; Genesis Owusu 29 July from 7pm; further dates to be announced
Cost: Free (invite only; double passes available to win)
Best For: Live music fans, Free events, Group catch-ups, Locals, Nightlife
Need To Know: Intimate invite-only gig series — enter for a chance to win one of four double passes per show, plus a major prize including flights for two. More artists still to be announced.

The 25 Hours Hotel Launches the Odeon Cult Film Club

Honouring the history of the Olympia, the 25 Hours Hotel has launched The Odeon Cult Film Club, a series of curated screenings for an evening of cocktails, elite snacks and nostalgia. Transforming the hotel’s screening room into a neighbourhood cinema, the programme will show films like ‘The Great Gatsby’ and ‘Lost in Translation’, bringing both locals and visitors alike together for a luxe, intimate cinema experience. Indulge in a glass of wine, a cocktail and a selection of curated snacks from the menu at The Mulwray or start the night with dinner at The Palomar and head downstairs for a cinema experience like no other.

Where: The Odeon, The 25 Hours Hotel, 1 Oxford Street, Paddington
When: Wednesdays from the 15th of July
Cost: General Admission is free, with food and drinks available at an additional cost (Bookings required)
Best for: Unique experiences, Girls’ night, Date night, Film lovers

Markets & Shopping:

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Kirribilli’s Chicest Treasure Hunt Is On

Mark your calendar because Kirribilli Markets are back this March with two much-loved editions. Explore artisan-made finds in the Burton Street Tunnel and a curated mix of fashion, accessories and creative treasures across the Green and Gravel areas, with everything from vintage gems and pre-loved pieces to antiques, collectables and homewares. Be warned… this is the kind of treasure hunt that rewards an early start and an empty bag!

Where: Kirribilli Markets, Burton Street Tunnel, Green & Gravel areas, Kirribilli
When: Saturday July 5th (Art, Design & Fashion Market)
Cost: Free entry
Best For: Markets, Fashion finds, Vintage lovers, Weekend plans
Need To Know: The Art, Design & Fashion Market focuses on artisan-made pieces and creative labels, while the General & Fashion Market features vintage, pre-loved style, antiques and homewares. Arrive early for the best finds.

Outdoor & Active

Bundle Up… Après-Ski Has Hit the Harbour

Pier One Sydney Harbour has swapped the mountain for the marina with Après Harbour, a firepit-and-fondue winter hangout that borrows every ritual of alpine après-ski without the chairlift queue. Think roaming schnapps flights from Wildbrumby Distillery, a S’mores Fire Cart flame-finishing marshmallows tableside, and a weeknight Schnappy Hour serving $18 cocktails and $2 oysters. Cosy up under faux-fur throws with truffle mac and cheese or Wagyu brisket loaded fries while a DJ soundtracks Friday and Saturday sunsets.

Where: Pier One Sydney Harbour, 11 Hickson Road, Walsh Bay
When: Wednesday 8 July 2026 onwards, daily from 3pm. DJ sets Friday and Saturday evenings. Schnappy Hour: weeknights 5pm–6pm.
Cost: Free to access. Minimum spend applies for Après Lounge seating. Schnappy Hour: $18 Wildbrumby cocktails and $2 oysters (weeknights 5pm–6pm). Bookings recommended.
Best For: Couples; Group catch-ups; Girls’ nights; Food & drink lovers; Nightlife; Premium experiences
Need To Know: Roaming S’mores Fire Cart, Wildbrumby Schnapps tasting flights (Pier Run: 3 flavours; Summit Run: 6 flavours) and alpine-inspired food menu including cheese fondue and truffle mac and cheese. Bookings recommended for lounge seating, minimum spend applies.

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!

Where: D’Albora Marina, Mosman (departing from The Spit)
When: Available seasonally
Cost: From $149
Best For: Harbour days, Group outings, Dog-friendly plans, Outdoor activities
Need To Know: No boat licence required. Each electric picnic boat accommodates up to seven people, with dogs welcome on board.

Call the Girls: This Movie Night Has Your Names All Over It

Movie nights will never be the same after this. Pier One Sydney Harbour has launched Harbourside Cinema, a dreamy private cinema suite experience complete with harbour views, cosy blankets, an outdoor projector and your own custom Yo-Chi frozen yoghurt bar. It sounds too good to be true but trust us, it’s a real thing.

Set on the terrace of the hotel’s Sunset Balcony Suite overlooking Sydney Harbour Bridge and Luna Park, the experience will let you stream your favourite flicks while snacking on popcorn, loaded fries, Wagyu burgers and sweet treats delivered straight to the room. We don’t know about you, but we’re thinking How To Lose A Guy In Ten Days?

Where: Pier One Sydney Harbour, Walsh Bay, Sydney
When: Nightly, 6pm–11pm, available until end of September
Cost: Cinema add-on is $150 to your stay
Best For: Couples, Girls’ nights, Group catch-ups, Premium experiences, Weekend plans
Need To Know: Package includes one-night stay, private cinema set-up, Yo-Chi frozen yoghurt bar, popcorn, soft drinks, parking and breakfast for two. Accommodates up to eight guests; additional guests welcome 6pm–11pm

Free Things To Do:

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The Free Thursday Night Plans You’ve Been Looking For

Clear your Thursday nights until September. Jazz Sessions in The Rocks is back for its third year! Returning to The Rocks Square every Thursday from 7th May through to 24th September with a lineup of Australia’s most exciting contemporary jazz artists, curated in partnership with SIMA. It’s free, it’s open air, and it’s set against one of Sydney’s most beautiful backdrops, with cobblestone laneways, historic sandstone and harbour air included.

There’s no tickets or bookings required, just show up. Pisa Slice will be on hand with a $10 pizza and soft drink combo, and the pop-up bar is pouring espresso martinis, spicy mango margaritas and mulled wine.

Where: The Rocks Square, The Rocks, Sydney
When: very Thursday, 7 May – 24 September, 6:30pm–8:15pm
Cost: Free
Best For: Free events, Live music fans, Couples, Group catch-ups, Outdoor enthusiasts
Need To Know: No tickets or bookings required — just show up. Food and drinks available on site, including a $10 pizza and soft drink combo from Pisa Slice.

Tickets available here.

Free Art, Workshops and Oysters at the Fish Market

Sydney Fish Market is doing a lot more than prawns right now. Seascapes is a free live performance program running at the waterfront until October 2026, bringing 14 artist commissions spanning printmaking, sound installations, workshops and immersive experiences, all inspired by the sea, the market and the harbour. Highlights include a gyotaku fish printing session with chef Ben Devlin on 7 June, a foghorn trumpet orchestra on 21 June, an oyster shucking workshop in August where you make your own shucker handle before eating the goods, and a waterfront vocal performance in October.

Where: Sydney Fish Market, Sydney
When: Until October 2026, various dates
Cost: Free
Best For: Free events, Art lovers, Cultural experiences, Families, Locals
Need To Know: Highlights include a gyotaku fish printing session with chef Ben Devlin (7 June), a foghorn trumpet orchestra (21 June), an oyster shucking workshop (August) and a waterfront vocal performance (October). Check Sydney Fish Market for the full program schedule.

What’s On This Month: FAQs

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.