UPDATED: August 24
From cheering on marathon runners to exploring Parramatta’s hidden architectural gems, here’s everything worth doing in Sydney this weekend.
Sydney is set for a big weekend, with tens of thousands of runners descending on the city for the TCS Sydney Marathon, while festivals, cultural events and immersive experiences take over venues across the city.
If you’d rather explore than run, the inaugural Parramatta Open is offering a rare chance to step inside some of Western Sydney’s most fascinating buildings. Meanwhile, the Sydney Cherry Blossom Festival will transform Auburn Botanic Gardens into a sea of pink, with Japanese-inspired food, entertainment and more than 200 cherry blossom trees.
For something a little more thought-provoking, the Festival of Dangerous Ideas is bringing 10 days of provocative talks, films and events to venues including the State Library, Carriageworks and the MCA. Expect big questions, controversial ideas and plenty to debate afterwards.
It’s also a great weekend for horror fans, or those who are craving Halloween fun a couple of months early, as Fear Island transforms Cockatoo Island into a full-blown horror playground, complete with scare tunnels, roaming performers and more than 100 choreographed scares.
Whether you’re looking for culture, conversation, flowers or frights, plenty is happening around Sydney this weekend.
Things to do in Sydney this weekend
Our top picks
TCS Sydney Marathon
Sydney is warming up to welcome tens of thousands of runners and spectators this weekend, as the TCS Sydney Marathon presented by Asics gears up for its second race since being crowned the seventh Abbott World Marathon Major.
This Sunday, racers will run the 42.195 km route, starting at Miller Street in North Sydney, passing through plenty of Sydney icons, including the Harbour Bridge, Centennial Park, and Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, and wrapping up at the Sydney Opera House. If you’re looking for somewhere to celebrate and keep the festivities going after crossing the finish line, click here to discover the best venues to head to.
Where: Start line at Miller Street in North Sydney.
When: August 30.
Price: Free to watch; entries are now closed.
Parramatta Open
Go behind the scenes at some of Parramatta’s most fascinating buildings during the first-ever Parramatta Open. Presented by Museums of History NSW, the one-day event offers rare access to 16 heritage landmarks, contemporary architectural icons and hidden spaces across the city, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Government House, PHIVE and Parramatta Square.
The event extends the usual Sydney Open program, which will finally reach Western Sydney in its 22nd year. The CEO of Museums of History NSW said, “Parramatta has an extraordinary architectural story, from deep histories and early colonial landmarks to bold civic and cultural spaces that speak to the future of Western Sydney. Parramatta Open is an opportunity to explore the city in new ways and celebrate the buildings, people and stories that make it so unique.”
Where: Parramatta CBD and surrounds.
When: August 29, 10am-4pm
Price: Adult tickets cost $35; children under 16 go free.
Fringe Ignite! Street Party
Kicking off the Sydney Fringe Festival is Fringe Ignite!, a free street party taking place this Saturday. The all-ages celebration will transform Darlinghurst’s bustling Stanley Street into a celebration of live music and performance, featuring roving entertainment, dance, circus, comedy and live music.
Stanley Street regularly closes to traffic for the government-run Sydney Streets, with the popular event often reaching capacity early in the day. So, there’s little doubt the Fringe Festival’s takeover of the iconic Darlo street will draw just as big a crowd, with visitors looking to make the most of the completely free community party.
Where: Stanley Street, Darlinghurst.
When: August 29.
Price: Free.
Sydney Cherry Blossom Festival
The Sydney Cherry Blossom Festival is back in full bloom, 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 has taken 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 the State Library, MCA, Carriageworks, Dendy Newtown and more.
When: August 20-30.
Price: Ticket price varies by event but usually costs around $39.
Fear Island
If you’re looking for a fright, Fear Island is taking over Cockatoo Island this weekend. The immersive horror event transforms the historic island into a nightmare after dark, with terrifying live scare tunnels, roaming performers, ghost stories and more than 100 choreographed scares. For the ultimate experience, pair it with the immersive Thriller Dinner, where horror and dining collide.
Where: Cockatoo Island.
When: August 28-30.
Price: Tickets start at $40.
What’s on in theatre
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.
LAST CHANCE: 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.
LAST CHANCE: 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
Alex Warren
Grammy-nominated, record-breaking singer-songwriter Alex Warren will play three huge shows in Sydney this weekend as part of his Finding Family on the Road world tour. The “Ordinary” singer, who was one of 2025’s breakout stars, will take over Afterpay Arena Friday through to Sunday, before continuing on his tour in Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth.
Where: 19 Edwin Flack Ave, Sydney Olympic Park NSW 2127.
When: August 28, 29 and 30 at 8pm.
Price: Tickets start at $89.90.
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.
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 is 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.
LAST CHANCE: 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 $44 per person.
