The weekend, Sydney is bursting with festive fun, a seemingly endless array of markets, and a host of cultural highlights to explore. Here are our top picks for all the best things to do in Sydney this weekend.
Editor’s Weekend Picks
This weekend, I’ll be heading to the Second Life Markets at Carriageworks to pick out the perfect Christmas outfit from their treasure trove of vintage finds. I’ll then stop by the Surry Hills Christmas Fair, which is perfectly placed right on Crown Street near all of Surry Hills’ incredible bars and restaurants (perfect for a bite to eat after watching the Santa Paws dog parade). The legendary Lady Gaga is in town, bringing her electrifying The MAYHEM Ball tour to Accor Stadium (which you can still secure tickets for). However, if you only see one thing this weekend, make it Ron Mueck’s new exhibition Encounter at the Art Gallery of NSW: an astonishing and sometimes confronting collection of his finest sculptures, including a brand-new commission created exclusively for Sydney.
Things to do in Sydney this weekend
Sydney Staples
1. Second Life Markets
Second Life Markets return to Sydney this Sunday, with over 120 stalls taking over Carriageworks on Sunday. As second-hand shopping continues to be a trend that everyone can get behind, these markets are not to be missed, arriving at the perfect time to upgrade your summer wardrobe. There will also be local DJs, a lineup of food trucks, drinks, and plenty of curated vintage finds to spend the day sifting through. You’ll be sure to find the perfect sustainable Christmas present for friends and family (or for yourself) at Second Life Markets.
Read our interview with the director of Second Life Markets to find out all her top tips for the perfect day of thrifting.
Where: Carriageworks, 245 Wilson St, Eveleigh NSW 2015.
When: Sunday, December 14, 9:30am-4pm.
Price: Tickets from $5.
2. New arrivals at Taronga Zoo
This summer will see some exciting new arrivals come to Taronga Zoo, including Hari, Sydney’s only Greater One-horned Rhino, who will live in the brand-new Rhino Reserve. He’ll be joined by three playful Asian Water Buffalo, Kahn, Sahasi and Babu, who are sure to charm visitors with their big personalities and love of mud baths. Although their exact arrival date hasn’t yet been confirmed, it’ll be any day now that they’ll be enjoying their new space at Sydney’s most beautiful zoo.
Taronga is also gearing up for the school holidays with a lineup of fun, hands-on experiences. From the Wild Ropes Treetop Adventure to the immersive Keeper for a Day program, there’s an experience for every kind of animal lover. They’ll also be celebrating the release of Disney’s Zootopia 2 by creating the ultimate Junior Investigators Trail around the zoo. Kids can follow the clues, solve puzzles, snap photos with Zootopia characters, and crack the case for a chance to win exciting prizes, including tickets to see Zootopia 2.
You can enter to win one of five family passes in our competition with Taronga Zoo here.
Where: Taronga Zoo, Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman NSW 2088.
When: Throughout December.
Price: Adult tickets start at $49.50, Children (4-15): $33, Infant (under 4 years): Free.
3. Outdoor Cinemas
Sydney reigns supreme as the city of stunning outdoor cinemas, even taking the title of ‘World’s Most Beautiful Cinema’ with the Westpac big screen on the harbour. This weekend, you’ll be able to check out Moonlight Cinema in Centennial Park, which is BYO and pet-friendly, Mov’In Bed Cinema in Barangaroo, which has the cosiest set-up of all the cinemas, and Bondi’s Sunset Cinema, the screen sitting right next to Sydney’s iconic beach. From festive films like Love Actually to huge blockbusters including Wicked: For Good, the outdoor cinemas are serving up incredible programs, making them the perfect place to enjoy with a date, a mate or your family.
Where: Across Sydney, though in December, the main ones are in Barangaroo, Centennial Park and Bondi.
When: Throughout December.
Price: Prices range starting at $12.
4. Makers and Shakers Market
The popular Makers and Shakers Market will return to White Bay Cruise Terminal for a special Christmas Market this December, taking over the venue on December 13 and 14. They’ll be showcasing over 140 top-of-their-craft makers of homewares, slow fashion, food, drink and more. Every product on sale is Australian-made, as the markets pledge to back local makers. Kids can enjoy craft activities, a colouring competition and other free activities, with several low-cost creative workshops also on offer for adults and children.
Where: White Bay Cruise Terminal, James Craig Road, Rozelle.
When: December 13 and 14, 10am-4pm.
Price: $5 per adult, children under 12 go free.
Festive Fun
5. Surry Hills Christmas Fair
Who wouldn’t want to see the Lord Mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore, rock up to a Christmas Fair on Santa’s Sleigh? Head to the Surry Hills Christmas Fair this December and enjoy Christmas shopping, a pop-up cinema, roving entertainment and all the festive fun you could dream of. The jam-packed program also features an interactive circus workshop, a ‘Santa Paws’ dog parade, musical bingo and Christmas karaoke. Finish with a screening of everyone’s favourite Christmas movie, Elf.
Where: Crown Street between Foveaux Street and Cleveland Street, Surry Hills, NSW 2010.
When: Saturday, December 13, from 11am to 10pm.
Price: Free.
6. Tumbalong Park Christmas Festival
Tumbalong Park at Darling Harbour will bring back its free family concerts, with expanded children’s entertainment zones and the return of Santa’s grand arrival. The larger main stage program will feature headline performers, including Lenny Pearce, and Christine and Zipporah Anu, to name a few, with TikTok sensation Jayden Rodrigues acting as MC for the night. There will be plenty of free entertainment, including the presence of captivating roving performers and plenty of chances for surprise sing-alongs throughout the evening.
Where: Tumbalong Park, Darling Harbour.
When: December 13, 4pm-9pm.
Price: Free.
7. Jolly Christmas Night Markets
Jolly Market is the closest thing Sydney gets to a European Christmas market each year, fashioned towards the French style with wooden chalets, artisan Christmas gifts, pop-up French wines, and most importantly, melted cheese stations. Yes, you’ve got artisan market stalls and street food vendors like just about every other Christmas market in Sydney, but you can also munch on duck confit sandwiches and dip crispy pieces of bread into cheesy fondue.
Sydney’s biggest Christmas night markets are yet to release their full vendor and performer lineups, so stay tuned to see who will be showcasing and entertaining in Sydney’s favourite precinct this holiday season.
Where: Circular Quay and The Rocks.
When: December 11 to 21, weekdays 4pm-10:30pm, weekends: 11am-10:30pm.
Price: Free.
8. Last weekend of South Eveleigh’s Twistmas
South Eveleigh’s creative Christmas program, Twistmas, wraps up this weekend, but there’s still time to visit the precinct and enjoy its free and low-cost experiences for all ages. Catch their magic show this Sunday from 10:30am-11:30am, then learn a few tricks of your own at the follow-up workshop, perfect for wowing friends and family this Christmas. Transform into a reindeer, elf, or even a sparkly snowflake at their Merry Makeover Station.
Feeling extra festive? Create and print your own personalised wrapping paper for $10, ready to wrap all your Christmas goodies. You can also choose to get around the precinct aboard the Twistmas Express and cruise around on their trackless train ride to the sounds of festive fun. You can see the full list of events here.
Where: Locomotive St, Eveleigh NSW 2015.
When: Until Sunday, December 14, 10am-4pm.
Price: Plenty of free events, some events costing $5-$10.
9. Christmas at the Cathedral
Head along to St Mary’s Cathedral near Hyde Park from December 12 to find one of Sydney’s most beloved Christmas festivals. Christmas at the Cathedral will be buzzing in the weeks leading up to December 25, bringing a scene of Xmas market stalls, live music and family-friendly activities to fill the days and nights with pure holiday cheer.
It all takes place under a towering Christmas tree with a beautiful nativity scene planned for this year. Each year, Christmas at the Cathedral is designed to a theme as well, and in 2025 that’ll be Charles Dickens’ classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge. You’ll see the theme brought to life in many of the designs, as well as in the dazzling light projection show curated by The Electric Canvas, reflecting off both the main and western sides of the Cathedral.
Where: St Mary’s Cathedral, Sydney.
When: December 12 – 25, 2025 (light show from 8:30pm).
Price: Free.
10. Martin Place Christmas Markets
The long-running Martin Place Christmas Markets will return to the heart of the CBD for four festive weeks this November, featuring gourmet food, artisan shopping, fun-filled entertainment and, of course, the city’s iconic Christmas tree. There will be 56 stalls offering a variety of goods, meaning you can head there after work and get your Christmas shopping sorted. Enjoy live music, festive eats and an Instagrammable backdrop at the famous CBD market.
Where: Martin Place, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: Thursday, November 27 to Saturday, December 20, every day at 11am-9:30pm.
Price: Free entry.
READ MORE: The 22 best Christmas Markets in Sydney
Gigs and Concerts
11. Lady Gaga at Accor Stadium
Lady Gaga will return to Australia after 11 long years as part of her electrifying The MAYHEM Ball tour. She’ll be stopping by Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium, Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium and Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena for two huge nights. Little Monsters can expect a setlist of new songs (think “Judas” and “The Dead Dance”) but also old bangers like “Poker Face”, “Papparazzi” and “Alejandro”. Expect a stunning show featuring incredible costumes, stunning vocals, and that signature Gaga flair.
Where: Accor Stadium, Edwin Flack Ave, Sydney Olympic Park NSW 2127.
When: December 12 and 13, from 7pm.
Price: From $212.10.
READ MORE: Lady Gaga 2025 Sydney Tickets: Dynamic Pricing Explained
12. Sydney Opera House On the Steps Series
One of the most iconic entertainment and concert series in Sydney, On the Steps sees a variety of huge international artists and local Aussie legends perform to the steps of the Sydney Opera House, against one of the most famous backdrops in the world. Already, artists including Loyle Carner, Parcels, Chet Faker and more have taken to the stunning stage, and this weekend will feature performances from The Living End, comedian Urzila Carlson and Boy & Bear.
Where: Sydney Opera House Steps, Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: Various performances throughout the weekend.
Price: $122.20 per person.
13. The Wiggles at Qudos Bank Arena
The Wiggles are bringing a high-energy extravaganza that will have the whole family singing, dancing and Wiggling from start to end. They’ll be bringing their biggest and brightest show yet to Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena, featuring timeless hits and sing-along moments from all your favourites, including Rock-A-Bye Your Bear, Fruit Salad Yummy Yummy and Hot Potato. The perfect way to celebrate the Christmas holidays, bring your youngsters along for this spectacular 360-degree Arena Show like no other.
Where: Qudos Bank Arena, 19 Edwin Flack Ave, Sydney Olympic Park NSW 2127.
When: Saturday, December 13, at 10am and 3pm.
Price: Tickets from $43.20.
Art Exhibitions and Galleries
14. Encounter by Ron Mueck
Internationally celebrated artist Ron Mueck returns to Australia with a major new exhibition. Encounter is the largest exhibition by the artist ever to be presented in Australia, and comprises sculptures drawn from across the globe. If Mueck’s recent exhibition in Seoul is anything to go by, where 100,000 people visited in just 20 days, Encounter is set to draw huge numbers in Sydney. Of the 15 sculptures featured in the exhibition, nine are making their Australian debut, with one never-before-seen work, Havoc, commissioned especially for Sydney.
Mueck is known for his hyperrealistic sculptures, which range from minute to massive, conveying themes that explore our relationship with the world, including birth, death, alienation and togetherness. We had a first look at the exhibition last week, and you can check out our review of the incredible works here.
Where: Art Gallery of NSW, Naala Badu, Lower Level 2, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: December 6, 2025- April 12, 2026.
Price: Adult tickets: $35, Youth: $18.
15. Data Dreams: Art and AI at the MCA
The first of its kind in a major Australian Museum, the new exhibition at the MCA, Data Dreams: Art and AI, considers artificial intelligence and its impact on contemporary life through the work of 10 visionary artists. Presented as part of the Sydney International Art Series 2025-26, this Aussie premiere explores how AI is transforming the way we live, think and create, focusing on a range of concerns, including the relationship between technology and power, and how algorithms and datasets are influencing our worldviews. Experience the immersive installations, AI-generated films, hallucinatory images, and mind-expanding sculptures as you delve into the fascinating, yet also frightening, world of artificial intelligence.
Where: Galleries Level 3, MCA, 140 George St, The Rocks NSW 2000.
When: November 21, 2025 until April 27, 2026.
Price: Adult tickets are $35, Concession $28. Under 18s go free. You can buy your tickets here.
16. Ocean Photographer of the Year Exhibition
The premier exhibition of the Ocean Photographer of the Year opened at the Australian National Maritime Museum last week, showcasing a striking collection of winning and finalist images from over 15,000 global entries. Featuring 112 breathtaking images that celebrate the beauty of our ocean and highlight the importance of marine conservation, the exhibition raises awareness about the climate crisis affecting our natural world. From tiny baby pufferfish to majestic humpback whales, the display aims to celebrate the brilliance and diversity of ocean life, with Sydney being the first city in the world to show the full collection of images on display.
Where: Australian National Maritime Museum, 2 Murray Street, Darling Harbour, NSW 2000.
When: From Thursday, November 6, 2025.
Price: Special exhibition tickets start at $25 per adult.
17. Ricky Swallow, Bent Forms
Who would’ve thought that what was missing from your shot of the Opera House was a giant bent stainless steel spoon? Ricky Swallow’s commission for the MCA’s Loti Smorgon Sculpture Terrace sees four huge spoons dotted across the lookout. They were created by Swallow from scaled-up wax prints of actual teaspoons, which he bent into various shapes. Head to the terrace and enjoy panoramic views of Sydney’s iconic harbour as you check out the wacky pieces of art by Swallow. If you loved Sculpture by the Sea, this exhibition is also worth a visit.
Where: Loti Smorgon Sculpture Terrace, MCA, 140 George St, The Rocks NSW 2000.
When: Showing until July 20, 2026.
Price: Admission from $20.
18. Dangerously Modern
This brand-new exhibition at the Art Gallery of NSW celebrates the remarkable women artists who overcame social barriers to forge international careers beyond Australia. This exciting exhibition is the first to celebrate the vital role of Australian women in shaping international modernism, featuring iconic figures like Margaret Preston, Nora Heysen and Grace Cossington Smith, as well as the under-recognised Agnes Goodsir, Justine Kong Sing and Helen Stewart. The exhibition will show more than 200 works, expanding visitors’ understanding of modern art movements, including realism, impressionism, post-impressionism, cubism and abstraction.
Where: Art Gallery of NSW, Art Gallery Rd, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: October 11- February 15, 2026.
Price: Adult tickets: $35, Youth: $18.
19. Mike Hewson: The Key’s Under the Mat
New Zealand-born, Sydney-based artist Mike Hewson is next in a long line of artists aching to take over The Art Gallery of NSW’s unique, subterranean Nelson Packer Tank space, turning the industrial bunker into a concrete jungle with a park, play space, construction site, and a communal area framed by sculptural works.
Mike Hewson: The Key’s Under The Mat opened last Saturday, and is the current talk of the art world. It marks the artist’s first solo presentation in an art museum, a platform to heighten his unique approach to what an all-ages playground looks like. Visitors are encouraged to meet, dwell, play, make, perform and explore while interacting with the park’s various features. You can even do a load of laundry or take a shower in the space!
Where: Art Gallery of NSW, Sydney.
When: From October 4, 2025.
Price: Free.
What’s on in Theatre
20. Gatsby at the Green Light
After the sell-out success of its premiere season, GATSBY at the Green Light will return for a sultry stint at the Sydney Opera House this weekend. Transforming the Studio into a 1920s-inspired club, the show revolves around cabaret, outlandish performances and all the glitz and glamour of the Roaring Twenties.
Despite being inspired by F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic novel, the show doesn’t follow the storyline exactly; instead, it immerses audiences in the dazzling world of Gatsby’s legendary parties. Think debauchery, sensuality and opulence. The show will feature ARIA Award-nominated artist Odette, who will sing soulful tunes as performers spin, twirl and fly through the air. Canadian circus artist Spencer Craig, who specialises in aerial loop, will be hosting the show as charismatic yet mysterious Gatsby. Soaring by his side will be daring Caitlin Thomson-Moylan, who will play his eternal (but doomed) love Daisy.
Where: The Studio at Sydney Opera House.
When: From December 13, 2025.
Price: From $59 plus booking fee.
21. Pretty Woman The Musical
One of the most loved rom-coms of all time is coming to the stage in Sydney this weekend. Based on the 1990 Hollywood film starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, Pretty Woman: The Musical is written and directed by the same team who created the film: J.F. Lawton and Gerry Marshall. Bursting with glamour, charm and all the iconic moments you know and love, the musical hit will arrive at Theatre Royal Sydney this Sunday. ARIA-award-winning pop star Samantha Jade will bring Vivian Ward to life, making her very exciting stage debut in the upcoming production. You can read our interview with her here.
When: From November 30, 2025 until January 4, 2026.
Where: Theatre Royal Sydney, 108 King St, Sydney NSW 2000.
Tickets: From $69 per person.
READ MORE: 5 Christmas musicals in Sydney you need to see in 2025
22. Back to the Future: The Musical
When it opened in London, Back to the Future: The Musical quickly became a success story, scooping up the Best New Musical award at the Laurence Olivier and What’s On Stage awards. It also swiftly transferred to Broadway. Now, the musical is dazzling Sydneysiders at the Lyric Theatre, with breathtaking visuals and a real flying DeLorean.
The exciting cast lineup includes Tony Award-winning actor Roger Bart, who will reprise the role of Doc Brown, having impressed audiences in both the West End and Broadway. Starring opposite him as Marty McFly will be Axel Duffy, a rising star from Brisbane. You can read our review of the new production here.
Unfortunately, the show will close prematurely on January 25, 2026, and will not complete its tour of Australia as previously planned. Make sure to support the show and catch it at the Lyric this summer, before it packs up Down Under for good.
When: Friday, September 26, until Sunday, December 28, 2025.
Where: Sydney Lyric Theatre, 55 Pirrama Rd, Pyrmont NSW 2009
Price: From $89.
23. The Book of Mormon
Regarded by many as one of the funniest (and most outrageous) musicals of all time, The Book of Mormon was written by the masterminds behind South Park, Trey Parker and Matt Stone. The musical tells the story of two young missionaries from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: “perfect” Elder Kevin Price and socially-awkward Elder Arnold Cunningham.
Kevin hopes his mission will take him to sunny Orlando, Florida, but instead, the mismatched pair are sent to a remote village in Uganda. The result is chaos, comedy and a lot of outrageous satire. We won’t spoil the show, but if you want to find out more, read our review here.
When: Showing until Sunday, January 25, 2026.
Where: Capitol Theatre, 13 Campbell Street, Haymarket NSW 2000.
Tickets: From $69 per person.
READ MORE: The Book of Mormon is back in Sydney — here’s everything you need to know
