Sydney’s new Sydney Festival director has revealed his top ten picks for the 2026.
It’s the famous festival’s 50th anniversary: of course, there are already headlines over an activist play starring British performer Khalid Abdulla.
Nowhere is a solo show by Abdalla (United 93, The Kite Runner, The Crown) about the intertwining personal and political histories, from colonialism to global uprisings, and it’s at the Roslyn Packer Theatre.
And most fascinating show – Mama Does Derby, a major new commission for Sydney Festival which will see Sydney Town Hall converted into into a full-scale roller derby track for an action-packed World Premiere work by Virginia Gay (Calamity Jane) and Windmill’s Claire Watson.
Running from 4 to 26 January 2026, Sydney Festival’s golden year promises to transform the city into a playground of creativity, connection, and celebration — drawing an estimated 300,000 people to stages, streets and harbourside venues across the city.
See our full preview here.
Ten Reveals for Sydney Festival 2026
1. A Festival Worth Crossing Town For
Nelson says this will be a festival “worth crossing town for”, with events spread from Blacktown to Bondi, encouraging Sydneysiders to explore new corners of the city.
2. Town Hall Roller Derby Rink
In what’s already being dubbed the must-see moment of the summer, Sydney Town Hall will become a roller-derby rink — yes, with the mayor’s approval. Expect music, movement and mayhem in one of Sydney’s grandest venues.
3. Music for All Generations
Celebrating half a century of culture, the festival will bring together artists aged 13 to 82, blending youthful energy with living legends across genres — from hip hop to rhythm and blues.
4. Googly Eyes at Darling Harbour
A giant interactive billboard installation featuring googly eyes will appear at Darling Harbour — and in Nelson’s words, “they’ll be your googly eyes.” The playful art piece promises to be a crowd favourite (and Instagram magnet).
5. A Massive Harbour “Blackout” Party
Thousands will dance under the stars at a spectacular outdoor dance event curated by Jane Nashton. “We’re not allowed to call it a rave,” Nelson joked, “but it will feel like one” — with the ocean and harbour as its glittering backdrop.
6. Four Funerals and a Wedding (or a Wedding Dress)
Part performance art, part cultural mash-up, this surreal series will feature a Chinese ceremony for the dead, an Irish wake, a club-kid cabaret, and a single wedding moment to tie it all together.
7. Free Events and $49 Prime Seats
A “truckload of free events” will make the festival more accessible than ever, alongside a special $49 ticket offer for premium seats at top venues including the Opera House and Carriageworks.
8. Artists from 19 Countries on Six Continents
From contemporary dance to avant-garde theatre, performers from 19 nations will bring global perspectives to Sydney — making this one of the festival’s most diverse lineups ever.
9. Walsh Bay Becomes a Festival Hub
The Walsh Bay precinct will host a vibrant mix of music theatre, cabaret, and performance from around the world, kicking off with a “very special” event on 10 January.
10. The Festival Matchmaker
In true showman style, Nelson quipped that he could “match you with the perfect show” if you share your astrological sign and availability. Whether you crave deep thinking or pure joy, Sydney Festival 2026 aims to deliver both.
A Celebration for the City
With its mix of free outdoor events, cutting-edge performances, and citywide experiences, Sydney Festival’s 50th year promises to unite the city through creativity. For travellers and locals alike, it’s a chance to rediscover Sydney — from harbour to heartland — in full festival mode.
As Nelson summed up:
“The festival has it all – whether you want a deep thinking experience or just a chance to celebrate with friends. I’ll make sure you have a great time.”
If You Go – Sydney Festival 2026
If You Go – Sydney Festival 2026When: 4 – 26 January 2026
Where: Various venues across Sydney — from Blacktown to Bondi, Town Hall to Walsh Bay
Tickets: From $49; many free events
Website: sydneyfestival.org.au
Don’t Miss: Skating at Town Hall, the Darling Harbour “Blackout” dance event, and the interactive googly-eyes billboard
Insider Tip: Book accommodation early — January coincides with Sydney’s peak summer season and major events calendar
