UPDATED: August 17
Whether you’re chasing rows of cherry blossoms, looking to spark your curiosity at a thought-provoking talk, or keen to indulge in a cosy winter feast, Sydney is packed with things to do from Friday to Sunday.
This weekend’s biggest draw is undoubtedly the Sydney Cherry Blossom Festival, with Auburn Botanic Gardens bursting into bloom for one of the city’s most Instagrammable annual events. Showcasing a dazzling display of more than 200 cherry blossom trees, the nine-day festival is easily one of Western Sydney’s most anticipated events.
Our other top picks include the Festival of Dangerous Ideas, which will bring provocative talks and taboo topics to venues across Sydney; a Swans double-header at the SCG; and a rare hometown appearance by bestselling author Liane Moriarty.
If you’re looking for a family-favourite crowd-pleaser, animal lovers can spend the day surrounded by adorable pups and kittens at the Cat Lovers and Dog Lovers Festivals, while theatre fans can catch everything from Fiddler on the Roof to Pride & Prejudice (sort of) before it wraps up.
To help you narrow it down, we’ve rounded up the can’t-miss events, as well as the best exhibitions, food experiences, live music, sport and theatre happening across Sydney this weekend.
Things to do in Sydney this weekend
Our top picks
Sydney Cherry Blossom Festival
The Sydney Cherry Blossom Festival is back in full bloom this weekend, returning to the Auburn Botanic Gardens for a nine-day stint. This festival is one of Western Sydney’s most anticipated (and photogenic) events, showcasing a dazzling display of more than 200 cherry blossom trees alongside a line-up of Japanese-inspired food, drink and entertainment.
Where: Auburn Botanic Gardens, Chiswick Road, Auburn NSW 2144.
When: August 22-August 30.
Price: Adult tickets cost $17.65, children’s tickets $9.60.
Festival of Dangerous Ideas
Presented by The Ethics Centre, the Festival of Dangerous Ideas will take over venues across Sydney for 10 days of talks, arts, films and excursions. You’re probably wondering, what makes it “dangerous”? The festival is designed to start conversations around taboo ideas that force audience members to question their own biases and assumptions.
The festival includes talks titled “Trump Is A Symptom”, “Weapons of Mass Distraction” and “Paranoid Nationalism” and is hosted at some of Sydney’s most iconic buildings, including the State Library, Carriageworks and the MCA. You can check out the full program here.
Where: Venues across Sydney, including State Library, MCA, Carriageworks, Dendy Newtown and more.
When: August 20-30.
Price: Ticket price varies by event but usually costs around $35.
The Cat Lovers Festival and The Dog Lovers Festival
The Cat Lovers Festival and The Dog Lovers Festival run concurrently at the Sydney Showground (but don’t worry, the cats and dogs are kept completely separate!) Whether you’re shopping for your favourite pup or kitty, dropping by the breed showcase or even looking to adopt your new best friend, both festivals are a great family day out for animal lovers.
Where: Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park NSW 2127.
When: August 22 and 23, 9:30am-5pm.
Price: A single-day pass for adults costs $43.38.
LAST CHANCE: Mike Hewson: The Key’s Under the Mat
New Zealand-born, Sydney-based artist Mike Hewson has transformed 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.
For the past few months, visitors have been encouraged to meet, dwell, play, make, perform and explore while interacting with the park’s various features, which include washing machines, a sauna and even barbecues. To send off this exhibition in style, the Art Gallery of NSW are bringing live DJ sets to the space across Saturday and Sunday, and is encouraging guests to “gather your friends and family for one last sauna, barbecue, swing and dance in the Nelson Packer Tank”.
Where: Art Gallery of NSW, Sydney.
When: Until August 23, 2026.
Price: Free.
Liane Moriarty: Big Little Truths
Ahead of the release of Big Little Truths, the long-awaited sequel to her No. 1 New York Times bestseller Big Little Lies, Sydney-born author Liane Moriarty returns to her hometown for an exclusive on-stage conversation. Joined by Bruna Papandrea, the producer behind the acclaimed screen adaptations of her novels, Moriarty will reflect on the enduring legacy of Big Little Lies, the ideas that shape her bestselling fiction and the highly anticipated new chapter readers have been waiting for.
Where: Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: August 24.
Price: Tickets from $39.
Art exhibitions and events
Brett Whiteley: Coming Home
The Brett Whiteley Studio has officially reopened after two years of renovations that meant the iconic space was closed to the public. Located in the celebrated artist’s final home and studio in Surry Hills, the gallery offers an intimate and unfiltered encounter with the life and practice of Brett Whiteley.
The studio has reopened with a new exhibition, titled Brett Whiteley: Coming Home, showcasing ambitious works produced by the artist in the 1970s. Offering an array of 80 paintings, drawings, sculptures, ceramics, prints, photographs and sketchbooks, the works showcase the energy and variety of Whiteley’s practice following his return to Australia after a decade of living and working abroad.
Where: Brett Whiteley Studio, 2 Raper St, Surry Hills, NSW 2010.
When: Open Thursday to Sunday, 10am-4pm.
Price: Free entry.
Margaret Olley: Australian Intimiste
The National Art School is celebrating the legacy of one of its own, displaying more than 60 of Margaret Olley’s artworks. The exhibition is drawn from public and private collections of the beloved artist’s work from throughout her six-decade career since graduating from the NAS.
Also featured are a selection of works by her National Art School friends, teachers and peers, including Jean Bellette, Margaret Cilento, Douglas Dundas, Russell Drysdale, Frank Medworth, David Strachan and Tony Tuckson among
others. It also includes Sir William Dobell’s famous 1948 Archibald Prize-winning portrait of Olley.
Where: National Art School, 156 Forbes St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010
When: Until October 24, 2026
Price: Free
Avatar: Forms of Vishnu
This ambitious exhibition is the largest presentation of South and Southeast Asian art shown at the Art Gallery of New South Wales in over 20 years, and the first Australian exhibition devoted to the Hindu deity Vishnu. It brings together more than 200 works, both historical and contemporary, ranging from ancient sculptures, textiles, and paintings to photography and installation.
Some of the extraordinary works in the exhibition include a sixth-century Cambodian sculpture of a horse-headed avatar of Vishu, paintings from 1594 illustrating India’s great Ramayana and Mahabharata epics, and new pieces made especially for the exhibition, including a pair of large paintings by Desmond Lazaro.
Where: Art Gallery of NSW, Art Gallery Rd, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: Until October 5, 2026.
Price: Adult tickets from $35.
Black Myth
Sydney’s White Rabbit Gallery, which showcases one of the world’s most significant collections of Chinese contemporary art, is located on a hidden backstreet in Chippendale. The gallery presents two exhibitions each year, and its current exhibition, titled Black Myth, will show until November 8.
Black Myth draws inspiration from the viral Chinese video game, Black Myth: Wukong, which is a modern retelling of the legendary novel Journey to the West. An epic fantasy, teeming with spirits, demons, ghosts, mythical beasts, gods, and immortals, it follows the monk Tang Sanzang and his three unlikely disciples as they undertake a pilgrimage from China to India.
The best part? Entry to White Rabbit Art Gallery is completely free.
Where: White Rabbit Art Gallery, 30 Balfour St, Chippendale NSW 2008.
When: Until November 8, 2026.
Price: Free.
Tony Albert: Not a Souvenir
One of Australia’s most exciting young Indigenous artists of today, Tony Albert’s new exhibition at the MCA that brings together his work across sculpture, photography, installation, painting, and assemblage alongside major new commissions.
Tony Albert: Not a Souvenir introduces a new word to us (one that the artist himself coined): Aboriginalia. It refers to the mass-produced kitsch featuring stereotypical and often racist depictions of Aboriginal peoples. Albert (Girramay, Kuku Yalanji, Yidindji people) has been amassing a huge collection of these uncomfortable souvenirs since he was a child, and his new exhibition reclaims the kitsch to celebrate cultural pride and survival instead.
Where: Museum of Contemporary Art, 140 George St, The Rocks NSW 2000.
When: Until October 19.
Price: Tickets from $28.
Harry Potter: The Exhibition
The highly anticipated tour of Harry Potter: The Exhibition is currently showing at Paddington Pavilion in Sydney Olympic Park, and it’s an absolute must-see for all Potterheads.
Visitors can step behind the scenes of the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts universes, exploring iconic moments, characters, settings and creatures alongside authentic props, original costumes and immersive galleries inspired by the films and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. This exhibition is definitely a must-visit for witches, wizards and devoted Muggles alike.
Where: Paddington Pavilion at Sydney Olympic Park, NSW 2127.
When: Until October 2026.
Price: Tickets start at $33.
Banksy Limitless
This immersive exhibition made its way Down Under from London after a successful debut, bringing the voice of one of the most influential figures in contemporary culture.
Banksy Limitless is an immersive art exhibition presenting a bold journey through the street-art icon’s ideas, imagery and legacy. Running until the end of August, this multi-sensory exhibition is not one to miss.
Where: 155 George St, The Rocks, 2000.
When: Until August 30.
Price: From $42 per person.
Where to eat and sip
Solotel’s Champagne Club
Solotel brings a touch of luxury to some of its most iconic venues this August, with the launch of Champagne Club, a month-long celebration featuring Champagne and club sandwiches (what more could you wish for?)
Taking inspiration from classic London institutions such as The Savoy and The Wolseley, as well as traditional American chophouses, Champagne Club will launch at Matt Moran’s venues, Aria, Chiswick, North Bondi Fish and Chophouse.
We’re most excited about the lobster club sandwich: think soft shokupan bread with layers of lobster, mortadella, pickled green tomato, lettuce and spicy mayonnaise. Served with housemade crisps and a glass of Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial, this dreamy combo will set you back just $40.
Where: Available at Aria, Chiswick, North Bondi Fish and Chophouse.
When: Until August 31.
Price: $40.
Winter Arbour at RAFI North Sydney
RAFI North Sydney has brought back its Winter Arbour series after a sold-out debut in 2025. Transforming the one-hatted venue’s glass Arbour into an immersive winter dining destination, the experience promises stunning interiors and ambience inspired by the rugged beauty of Northern Australia, as well as a premium dining experience.
Together, Executive Chef Matias Cillóniz and Head Chef Keith Dsouza have curated a $128pp sharing banquet revolving around Wagyu and seasonal produce: think Wagyu tartare with horseradish and quail egg; slow-braised Westholme Wagyu cheek with garlic chive kimchi and fermented black bean.
This year also marks the debut of the Chef’s Kitchen experience, an intimate private dining space for just 12 guests that’s available to book.
Where: 99 Mount St, North Sydney NSW 2060.
When: Until September 6.
Price: $128 per person.
Suntory Time at Zephyr Sky Bar
Enjoy an exclusive menu of Japanese-inspired cocktails and paired bites overlooking Darling Harbour with the House of Suntory’s takeover of Zephyr Bar.
The seasonal collaboration showcases House of Suntory’s iconic Japanese spirits across a bespoke cocktail list alongside a curated menu of Wagyu Tataki, Octopus Takoyaki and Pan-Seared Gyoza. Try a Suntory Spritz ($28), a delicious combo of Suntory whisky, kaffir lime, lemon myrtle, yuzu, mango, prosecco; or a Royal Flush ($28), made with Haku vodka, Roku gin, Lillet, Italicus, lemongrass, grapefruit.
There are also live violin performances every Friday night if you’re looking for the ultimate, sophisticated date night.
Where: Zephyr Sky Bar, Rooftop Hyatt Regency, Level 12/161 Sussex St, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: Until mid-September.
What’s on in theatre
LAST CHANCE: Rigoletto
Elijah Moshinsky’s much-loved production of Rigoletto is back at the Sydney Opera House, complete with its delightful La Dolce Vita-inspired sets and costumes, including the scene-stealing Fiat 500.
Led by Italian conductor Sesto Quatrini, this production is a bold reinvigoration of Verdi’s iconic score, which he demanded be kept under complete secrecy at the time of its premiere. Award-winning baritone Dalibor Jenis reprises his acclaimed performance as the tortured jester, supported by Kang Wang as the Duke and rising star Gemma Nha as the jester’s daughter.
Where: Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000
When: Until August 21.
Price: Tickets from $79.
Fiddler on the Roof
The beloved 1964 musical is running until October 3 at the Theatre Royal, following its sold-out season in London, where it set the record for the best-selling musical of all time at the Barbican Theatre and won three Olivier Awards, including Best Musical Revival.
The story is set in the tiny village of Anatevka in 1905, where milkman Tevye (Troy Sussman) lives his life by their proud traditions. For his five daughters, this means a visit from the matchmaker, played by Sigrid Thornton. As each daughter challenges his beliefs, against the backdrop of a changing world, Tevye struggles to embrace the unfamiliar as anti-semitic pressures increase in the region.
You can read our review of the show here.
Where: Theatre Royal, 108 King St, Sydney 2000.
When: Until October 3.
Price: Adult tickets from $89.
Pride & Prejudice (sort of)
After seeing Pride & Prejudice (sort of) earlier this month, Sydney Travel Guide declared it to be “the most hilarious show on the Sydney stage right now.” Fresh from an Olivier Award-winning run in London, this riotous musical comedy gives Jane Austen’s beloved love story a brilliantly irreverent twist.
Packed with sharp humour, standout performances and pop classics including Young Hearts Run Free, Will You Love Me Tomorrow and You’re So Vain, it’s a joy whether you’re a lifelong Austen fan or have never picked up the novel.
Where: Drama Theatre, Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: Until August 30.
Price: Tickets from $49.90.
The Lion King
The blockbuster musical The Lion King continues its run in the Harbour City. The original Australian production of The Lion King premiered at the Capitol Theatre in Sydney in October 2003, returned for a second run in 2013, and is now back at the iconic venue 13 years later.
You can read our review of the stunning show here.
Where: Capitol Theatre, 13 Campbell St, Haymarket NSW 2000.
When: Until October 4, 2026.
Price: From $165.
Velvet Inferno
Sashay your way into Velvet, a nightclub where disco reigns supreme, and the dance floor calls your name. Velvet Inferno is a 70-minute, non-stop spectacular featuring timeless anthems, powerhouse performances and gravity-defying acts, all inspired by the legendary New York nightclub, Studio 54. Directed by Craig Ilott (Gatsby at the Green Light, L’Hotel, Velvet Rewired), the high-energy event takes over the Sydney Opera House’s Studio until mid-September.
Where: Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: Until September 13.
Price: Tickets from $49.90.
Burn the Floor: Luminous
More than a dance show, Luminous stars some of the world’s finest international champion dancers to deliver a pure theatrical experience. Directed and choreographed by Jason Gilkison, it showcases a melting pot of dance styles, including Latin and contemporary, with infectious and rebellious energy.
It features a fearless cast who challenge the boundaries of the ballroom art form, supported by live musicians and vocalists. Expect reimagined traditional pieces like the Viennese Waltz and Foxtrot alongside fiery Tangos, Cha-Chas, Sambas, and Jives.
Where: Playhouse, Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney, NSW 2000
When: August 13-29, 2026.
Price: From $79 for adult tickets.
Gigs and concerts
Vera Blue
Australian singer-songwriter Vera Blue will take to the stage at City Recital Hall this Saturday for what is sure to be an electrifying, high-energy show. The star’s discography includes a collaboration with fellow Aussie Flume on the track “Rushing Back”, as well as incredible solo works “Regular Touch” and “Hold”.
Where: City Recital Hall, 2 Angel Pl, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: August 22 at 7:30pm.
Price: Tickets start from $77.95.
Alex Lahey
Alternative rock singer-songwriter Alex Lahey is celebrating ten years of her breakout EP ‘B‑Grade University’ with a huge Australian tour, with a stop at Camperdown’s iconic Manning Bar this Saturday. Expect special guests, fan favourites and previews of brand new songs at this intimate show.
Where: Hideout at Manning, Manning House, Level 2, Manning Road, Camperdown NSW 2050.
When: August 22 at 8pm.
Price: Tickets start at $54.90.
Sporting events
NRL: Rabbitohs vs Warriors
The South Sydney Rabbitohs will take on the New Zealand Warriors this weekend as part of the ongoing NRL Telstra Premiership. The game will take place at Accor Stadium, with tickets starting at $35. So, hop on a train to Sydney Olympic Park and cheer on your team for a weekend of rugby action.
Where: Edwin Flack Ave, Sydney Olympic Park NSW 2127.
When: August 22 at 5:30pm.
Price: Tickets from $35.
AFL: Sydney Swans double-header
Don your red and white and head to the SCG this weekend to cheer on the Swans. The Sydney Swans Women will take on Essendon at 12:30pm, before the men face North Melbourne at 3:20pm, meaning that one ticket will get you access to a thrilling double-header.
Where: Sydney Cricket Ground, 4 Driver Ave, Moore Park NSW 2021.
When: August 23, 12:30pm.
Price: Tickets start at $59.
