From burlesque royalty at the State Theatre to the closing days of Sydney’s favourite art exhibition, it’s a big weekend ahead in the Harbour City.
The clock is ticking on the Archibald, Wynne and Sulman Prize Exhibition with the annual showcase of contemporary Australian art wrapping up at the Art Gallery of NSW on Sunday. If you’ve been meaning to get along all winter, or want to take another spin around, this is officially your last chance. The undisputed queen of burlesque takes over the State Theatre for three nights with her new show Nocturnelle, while comedian Nazeem Hussain is bring the laughs when he does back-to-back gigs at the Enmore Theatre.
Plus, there’s an Italian street festival, new dance productions, blockbuster sporting contests and plenty more. Keep reading for everything to do in Sydney this weekend.
Things to do in Sydney this weekend
Our top picks
Ferragosto Street Festival
Mamma mia! Ferragosto is back for 2026, filling Five Dock’s Great North Road with the sights, sounds and flavours of Italy. Three stages will host live performances and entertainment throughout the day, including a set from award-winning comedian James Liotta with his hilarious take on Italian family life. There will also be more than 150 food, wine and market stalls, a petting zoo, a wine and beer garden and free rides near Lyons Road.
Where: Great North Road, Five Dock, NSW 2046.
When: Sunday, August 16, 10am-5pm.
Price: Free.
Dita Von Teese
For three nights, the reigning queen of burlesque Dita Von Teese unveils her new show Nocturnelle at the State Theatre. Inspired by the magicians of the 19th century, this production blends old Hollywood allure with theatrical magic and, of course, the high-art of “Stripscapes” that the American performer has made her own. The Nocturnelle Tour follows the 53-year-old’s record-breaking Glamonatrix Tour which remains the biggest touring burlesque show of all time. Renowned for her lavish productions, Dita raises the bar yet again with a show that is opulent and richly imaginative.
Where: State Theatre, 49 Market St, Sydney, NSW, 2000.
When: August 13-15 at 8.30pm
Price: Tickets from $99.90
Harbour Heat at Q Station
Enjoy a seaside wellness ritual this weekend with the return of sauna sessions at Manly’s historic Q Station. Harbour Heat is a wood-fired sauna with some of the best seats in the house, offering sweeping views across Sydney Harbour and Manly Cove. Featuring a traditional wood-burning stove, favoured by purists for its softer, more natural heat, water poured over the hot stones creates löyly, the gentle steam at the heart of authentic Finnish sauna culture. Once warmed, dive straight into the ocean for some natural contrast therapy. Repeat and leave feeling renewed
To celebrate the opening of Harbour Heat this weekend, the 50-minute sessions are only $20 and there will be live music, pilates sessions, goodies from True Protein & Kippis, not to mention exploring all that Q Station has to offer. Bookings essential.
Where: Q Station, 1 North Head Rd, Manly, NSW, 2095.
When: Saturday, August 15 and Sunday, August 16. Then Wednesday to Sunday ongoing.
Price: Opening weekend price of $20.
Two Blood
Australian Dance Theatre returns to Carriageworks this weekend only for the Sydney premiere of Two Blood, a bold new work created by three leading Australian artists in contemporary performance.
Blending explosive physicality with story and ceremony, Two Blood centres on the discovery of two bodies in a forever embrace: a Tagalaka woman and a Chinese man. As their remains are unearthed, so is a story of belonging that spans generations, crosses borders, and bends time to revel in the multiplicity that has shaped our nation.
Where: Bay 20, Carriageworks, 245 Wilson St, Eveleigh, NSW.
When: August 13-15.
Price: Tickets from $34.
What’s on in theatre
LAST CHANCE: The Drover’s Wife
Based on Leah Purcell’s acclaimed play, novel, and film, The Drover’s Wife is a powerful, new Australian opera about an isolated woman whose life changes when she meets Yadaka, an Aboriginal man fleeing colonial authorities. As their shared histories of violence, loss and survival come to light, the production explores truth, resilience and the enduring impact of colonial Australia through George Palmer’s soaring score and a starring performance from Nina Korbe.
Where: Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney, 2000.
When: Saturday, August 15 at 12.30pm
Price: Tickets from $50
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.
Read our review 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 it’s 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.
The Merry Widow
It’s the last weekend to see Franz Lehár’s beloved operetta The Merry Widow at the Sydney Opera House. Inviting audiences to waltz into a world of glamour, romance and lavish parties, this visually spectacular production is led by internationally acclaimed soprano Emma Pearson alongside beloved Australian star Julie Lea Goodwin, who will share the role of Hanna. It’s shaping up to be one of the highlights of Opera Australia’s 2026 season so don’t miss out.
Where: Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney, NSW 2000.
When: Until August 18.
Price: Tickets from $50.
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 artform, 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. Get tickets here.
Where to eat and sip
The Season of Truffle at InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach
Join acclaimed truffle grower Barbara Hill for an intimate dining experience at InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach. Indulge in a thoughtfully curated three-course menu celebrating freshly harvested black Périgord truffle at its seasonal peak. The menu features dishes like Skull Island tiger prawns, Riverina beef short rib and roasted artichoke velouté, and you can elevate the experience further with an optional wine pairing for $95. Sign us up.
Where: InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach, 242 Arden St, Coogee NSW 2034.
When: August 15 at 7pm.
Price: $120 per person, $95 for a wine pairing.
Solotel’s Champagne Club
Solotel brings a touch of luxury to some of their 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, eschalot 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 featuring flavours including yuzu, kaffir lime, lemongrass, mango and passionfruit, 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 for an elegant and vibrant atmosphere.
Where: Zephyr Sky Bar, Rooftop Hyatt Regency, Level 12/161 Sussex St, Sydney NSW 2000
When: Until mid-September
Art exhibitions and events
Margaret Olley: Australian Intimiste
The National Art School is celebrating the legacy of one of it’s own – Margaret Olley – displaying more than 60 of her 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, who died in 2011 aged 88, that caused a sensation in the day with critics claiming it broke the rules of the prize.
Where: National Art School, 156 Forbes St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010
When: Until October 24, 2026
Price: Free
Brett Whiteley: Coming Home
The Brett Whiteley Studio has officially reopened after two years of renovations meant that 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.
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.
LAST CHANCE: The Archibald, Wynne and Sulman Prizes Exhibition
Presented by the Art Gallery of New South Wales, the Archibald Prize, Wynne Prize and Sulman Prize offer a vivid snapshot of contemporary Australian art and culture. The Archibald Prize, the country’s most prestigious portrait award, recognises outstanding depictions of notable figures from the worlds of music, journalism, media, stage and screen.
One of the country’s most anticipated exhibitions, this year’s annual showcase runs until August 16. You can explore the winning works and discover the stories behind the artists, subjects and portraits here.
Where: Art Gallery of NSW, Naala Nura building, lower level 2.
When: Ends August 16.
Price: Adult tickets start at $30.
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.
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.
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: Until August 23, 2026.
Price: Free.
Music & comedy
Nazeem Hussain
Expect wild stories and unhinged characters in Nazeem Hussain’s new show I’d Like to Tell You About Some Jokes – but don’t expect a filter. The Aussie comedian and much-loved television and radio personality is back with new material that’s guaranteed to leave fans in stitches.
Where: Enmore Theatre, 118-132 Enmore Rd, Newtown NSW 2042.
When: Friday, August 14 & Saturday August 15 at 7pm.
Price: Tickets from $40.70. Book them here.
Jack Botts
Known for his laid-back blend of folk, country and coastal-inspired storytelling, Jack Botts is back touring Australia to celebrate the release of his second album Days & Days. He’s been building a global following and supported some big names including Hozier, Tash Sultana, and Boy & Bear. When he hits the Metro Theatre on Sunday night, he’ll be giving fans a glimpse into his next chapter and treating them to new singles including ‘Days & Days’, ‘Bonita’ and ‘What If?’.
What: Jack Botts
When: Sunday August 16, 2026, at 7pm
Price: Tickets from $49.90
Sport and events
AFL
The GWS Giants’ AFL and AFLW sides will unite for a historic double-header at Engie Stadium on Sunday. First up, is the do-or-die match for the AFL’s Giants, They’re taking on the West Coast Eagles for a spot in the Wildcard Finals Round. They’re coming off a disappointing two-point loss to the Gold Coast Suns so they’ll need to turn things around at home. Then, the AFLW team will be hoping to start their season with a bang, also against the Eagles. Fans wanting to attend the special fixture will be able to do so at the family-friendly price, with just one ticket getting you into both games.
Where: ENGIE Stadium, Grand Parade, Sydney Olympic Park, NSW, 2127
When: Sunday, August 16, from 1.40pm
Price: From $20 via ticketmaster.com.au
NRL
It’s a big weekend in rugby league with five games taking place across Sydney on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Manly take on the Dolphins and the Bulldogs go up against the Rabbitohs on Friday; on Saturday it’s the Sharks v Raiders and Eels v Cowboys; then on Sunday the Tigers got up against the Dragons. Get all the details and tickets here.
Where: At stadiums across Sydney
When: Friday, Saturday and Sunday, August 14-16.
Price: Varies
