Sydney is turning up the volume this weekend with a giant free music festival taking over the Inner West, Christmas celebrations popping up in The Rocks, and a whole host of school holiday fun ready to entertain the little ones.
One of Sydney’s biggest days of free live music is back, with the King Street Crawl taking over some of the Inner West’s best venues. Newtown will become one giant music festival as more than 200 artists take to the stage across 53 venues, with pop-up performances stretching from King Street to Enmore and Erskineville Roads.
Christmas in July officially returns to The Rocks on Friday, bringing mulled wine, gooey melted cheese and Swiss-style chalets to the sandstone precinct. Watch a festive movie at their Firepit Cinema, or dress up cosy and sing along to their free live gigs.
Bondi Festival is continuing to prove that Sydney’s most famous beach isn’t just for summer. Head east this weekend for the free Pavilion Paw Parade, where hundreds of four-legged locals will gather for a fun-filled celebration of Bondi’s much-loved dog culture.
Read on for our pick of the best things to do in Sydney this weekend, from blockbuster theatre and major sporting events to school holiday fun and the city’s hottest dining deals.
Things to do in Sydney this weekend
Our top picks
Christmas in July Festival
While the Northern Hemisphere enjoys Christmas carols, markets and ice skating during December, Christmas looks a little different Down Under. But Sydneysiders never miss out. Christmas in July is the clever solution that brightens up the colder winter months in the Harbour City, bringing Christmas markets, mulled wine and falling snow.
This year, the Fire Pit Cinema will return, with private fire pits available for two to six people. Snuggle up under blankets, sip hot chocolate, toast marshmallows and enjoy classic Christmas movies, including Home Alone, Elf and The Holiday. Foodies can find melted raclette, bratwursts, schnitzels and sugar-dusted crêpes, among other comfort dishes, at the pop-up restaurants, too.
Where: The Rocks, Sydney 2000.
When: July 10-July 19.
Price: Free entry.
King Street Crawl
The King Street Crawl is back for another day of free gigs, stretching down Newtown’s most iconic street to the bustling Enmore Road and Erskineville Road. This Crawl will see over 200 artists perform across 53 venues, including popular spots like The Marly, Duke of Enmore and Vic on the Park. Eliza Street will shut down for a huge street party, with entry on a first-in, best-dressed basis, so don’t leave it too late.
For the first time, Enmore Theatre will host a ticketed headline stage, with performances from Winston Surfshirt, Tropical F*ckstorm and Human Movement. Tickets cost $50 per person and will also secure you priority access to a select group of popular venues.
Where: Participating venues on King Street, Enmore Road, Erskineville Road and more.
When: July 12.
Price: Free entry.
Bondi Festival
Bondi Festival is back, serving up comedy, theatre, music and even a beachside ice rink. You might normally associate Bondi with summer, surfing and sun; however, the Bondi Festival is here to keep the famous suburb relevant through the winter months. The ice rink will be available throughout the festival, with tickets priced from $15 to $28 for a 45-minute session.
This weekend’s highlights include the Gladdy Drawing Club life drawing at Bondi Pavilion Art Gallery, Bingo, Burlesque and Bondi Vybes at Seagull Cabaret Hall and the Pavilion Paw Parade at Garu Courtyard.
Where: Bondi Pavilion and surrounding areas.
When: Friday, July 3–Sunday, July 19.
Price: Price varies depending on the event.
NAIDOC Week
NAIDOC (National Aboriginal and Islanders Day Observance Committee) Week celebrations are held across Australia in the first week of July each year to celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Every year, there is a new NAIDOC Week theme, chosen by the national organising committee, and this year, it’s “50 Years of Deadly”, marking five decades since First Nations peoples took full control of the NAIDOC committee and expanded it from a single day to a nationwide week of celebration. You can check out our guide to all the best events here.
Where: Events across Sydney.
When: July 5-12.
Price: Most events are free; some are ticketed.
School holiday activities
Pay No Attention
A brand-new show from homegrown leaders in youth circus, Flying Fruit Fly Circus – where knockabout comedy, sleight of hand and shifting personas meet breathtaking aerials. Performed by 13 young artists, Pay No Attention is a hilarious, unsettling and awe-inspiring reflection on the lived experience of young people as they navigate a world of “fake news” and digital manipulation.
When: July 4-11.
Price: Tickets from $15.
Darling Harbour Ice Rink
The Darling Harbour Ice Rink is back, giving Sydneysiders the chance to glide across an open-air rink just metres from the waterfront at Palm Grove. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a complete beginner, there’s plenty of fun to be had. Grab a penguin skating aid if you’re not the most confident skater (or just cling onto your more confident mate!. It’s a festive, family-friendly way to embrace the winter chill in the heart of the city.
Where: Palm Grove Forecourt (outside IMAX Sydney), Shop 4, Ground Level/35 Wheat Rd, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: June 27-July 19.
Price: Tickets from $28.
Two-for-one tickets to Bloodsuckers: Nature’s Vampires
Looking for a bloody good time these school holidays? The Australian Museum has you covered, thanks to its globally acclaimed, award-winning new exhibition, dedicated entirely to bloodsuckers. Bloodsuckers: Nature’s Vampires is an immersive exhibition all about the bats, birds and mites that want to suck your blood.
While it might test the nerves of the more squeamish visitors, the exhibition’s true draw is how it brings wildlife lovers face-to-face with nature’s most sophisticated micro-predators. What’s more, with two-for-one tickets available throughout the winter school holidays, there’s never been a better excuse to visit the museum.
Where: Australian Museum, 1 William St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010.
When: Opens April 2, 2026.
Price: Adult tickets from $28, children’s (4-15 years old) tickets from $15.
Hive Festival
Hive Festival returns to the Art Gallery of New South Wales for its first-ever winter edition these July school holidays, bringing two days of free creative fun for families this weekend. The festival celebrates the living world through hands-on art workshops, live music, storytelling, interactive tours and discounted access to Avatar: Forms of Vishnu.
This year’s festival is inspired by Bain’s exhibition By the River, with families invited to design surfboards for a collaborative “paddle out” installation and create personalised picture frames reflecting their connection to place. Highlights also include performances by Teeny Tiny Stevies, movement workshops with Sydney Dance Company, a kids’ disco, free film screenings, art-making activities, soft play spaces for under-fives and family-friendly food stalls.
Where: Art Gallery of NSW (in both the Naala Nura and Naala Bady buildings).
When: July 11 and 12.
Price: All activities are free, though some require bookings.
You & Me and The Land of Lost Things
Bestselling author Andy Griffiths brings his brilliantly bonkers YOU & ME and The Land of Lost Things to the stage in a hilarious new theatrical adventure for young audiences. As the final stop of a national tour, get ready for action, imagination and extremely questionable navigation as colourful characters embark on a quest through a world of snapping turtles, flying socks, treasure-hungry pirates and a very anxious bull.
When: July 4-19.
Price: Tickets from $39.90.
Theatre, comedy and talks
Engine
Sydney Dance Company returns to the Sydney Opera House with Engine, a dynamic triple bill showcasing the power and versatility of contemporary dance through works by Rafael Bonachela, Fran Díaz and Melanie Lane.
The program includes three different performances: the world premiere of Bonachela’s The Journey Itself Is Home, set to a score by Grammy Award-winning composer Bryce Dessner; the Australian debut of Díaz’s The Mass Ornament; and the Sydney return of Lane’s acclaimed Love Lock. You can read our review of the stunning show here.
Where: Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: June 24-July 12, 2026.
Price: Adult tickets from $55, under-25s from $35.
LAST CHANCE: Hair
If you love all things ’60s (bell-bottoms, fringe, long hair and a free-spirited attitude), head to Theatre Royal this weekend to see the musical Hair take to the stage.
Back for a strictly limited season, this iconic tribal rock musical brings the vibrant counterculture of New York’s hippie movement to life on stage. Exploring themes of identity, community, social change, and the pursuit of peace, Hair remains as powerful and relevant today as it was when it first captivated audiences. You can read our review of the show here.
Where: Theatre Royal, 108 King St, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: June 6-July 12.
Price: Preview performance tickets start at $69.
The Merry Widow
Franz Lehár’s beloved operetta arrives at the Sydney Opera House this July, inviting audiences to waltz into a world of glamour, romance and lavish parties. Visually spectacular and led by internationally acclaimed soprano Emma Pearson alongside beloved Australian star Julie Lea Goodwin, who will share the role of Hanna, the production is shaping up to be one of the highlights of Opera Australia’s 2026 season.
When: July 8-August 18.
Price: Tickets from $50.
Mackenzie
What if Macbeth wasn’t a Scottish king consumed by ambition, but a Disney Channel-style 13-year-old child star desperate to be famous? That’s the gloriously chaotic premise behind Mackenzie, the new play from acclaimed Australian playwright, Yve Blake, in partnership with Bell Shakespeare.
Described as a dark, camp and satirical reimagining of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, Blake tells us that the production will transport the audience to the “golden era of Nickelodeon and Disney Channel.” Think Hannah Montana, High School Musical and Jojo Siwa colliding with one of Shakespeare’s bloodiest tragedies. You can check out our interview with Blake here.
Where: The Neilson Nutshell, 13A Hickson Rd, Dawes Point NSW 2000.
When: June 6-July 18.
Price: Adult tickets from $94, Under 18/Under 35 A-reserve tickets from $45 for Tuesday-Thursday performances.
The Lion King
In very exciting news for Sydney’s theatre fanatics, the blockbuster musical The Lion King has returned to 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: April 18-August 9, 2026.
Price: From $165.
Abbie Chatfield at State Theatre
In a night that promises “sharp comedy and cultural commentary”, renowned social media star Abbie Chatfield takes to the stage in a fun, chaotic, chat-style show. Featuring hilarious games and guest interviews, Abbie will discuss all kinds of men: The good, the bad, the wildly overconfident, and the ones writing books about being “alpha.”
Where: State Theatre, 49 Market St, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: July 11, 7pm.
Price: Tickets from $79.90.
Beyond the Tracks: Michael Leslie
Making its world debut at Carriageworks, Beyond the Tracks tells the powerful life story of acclaimed dancer, choreographer and educator Michael Leslie, told through movement, music and memory.
Exploring his central role in the rise of Aboriginal contemporary performance in Australia, Leslie (who is now approaching 70) will take to the stage to tell his story in his own words and movement, revisiting dance, activism, memory and ageing in a deeply personal work.
Where: 245 Wilson St, Eveleigh NSW 2015.
When: July 8-11. Shows at 7pm except Saturday, which is at 1:30pm.
Price: Tickets from $34.
Sporting events
FIFA World Cup
We’re all still recovering from the Socceroos’ heartbreaking World Cup exit, but the tournament is far from over. Now’s the perfect time to back a new team (maybe an underdog) and keep the World Cup fever alive.
Pubs throughout Sydney will be screening the action, with venues like the Sackville Hotel, Cheers Bar, The Erko and Coogee Bay Hotel gearing up to show the big weekend of sport. All these venues will be screening the final game, even if the Socceroos don’t make it.
Where: Tumbalong Park and throughout the city.
When: FIFA World Cup runs from June 11 to July 19.
Price: Free.
NRL fixtures
If State of Origin has you in the mood for more rugby league, there’s plenty of NRL action across Sydney this weekend. On Saturday, the Bulldogs face the Raiders at Accor Stadium before the Roosters take on the Eels at Allianz Stadium. Then on Sunday, the Rabbitohs host the Knights at Accor Stadium.
Tickets generally start from around $35, but if you’d rather save your cash, pubs across the city will be screening every match live and free.
Where: Games are taking place in stadiums across the city.
When: July 11 and 12.
Price: Tickets from $35.
Where to eat and sip
Winter Arbour at RAFI North Sydney
RAFI North Sydney is bringing 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. Sign us up.
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: June 29-September 6.
Price: $128 per person.
Pints for schooner prices at Three Blue Ducks Rosebery
Three Blue Ducks is celebrating their new partnership with the Inner West beer legends Young Henry’s, serving pints for schooner prices all day (and for the following Sundays). As roast dinner season is officially underway, enjoy their fire-cooked Sunday Roast with generous gravy, nostalgic sides and even a veggie roast, so no one misses out. The Three Blue Ducks is widely regarded as serving one of the best roasts in Sydney, so don’t miss out!
Where: 1/85 Dunning Ave, Rosebery NSW 2018.
When: Sunday 5 July, from 11:30am-6pm.
Price: Sunday roasts start at $36.
$39 steak frites lunch special at 20 Chapel
Pop down to 20 Chapel in Marrickville on Friday, and you can secure a $39 steak frites, featuring a 250g Blackmore Wagyu eye of round steak, crispy fries and a choice of black pepper and curry leaf sauce or mushroom, onion and marsala sauce. Widely regarded as one of the best steak restaurants in Sydney, this deal offers the ideal, budget-friendly way to try their fire-cooked produce.
Where: 20 Chapel St, Marrickville NSW 2204.
When: Available every Friday, 12pm-3pm.
Price: $39 for steak frites.
Art exhibitions and events
Avatar: Forms of Vishnu
This ambitious new exhibition will be 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. The exhibition will bring 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 included 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: June 20-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 next exhibition, titled Black Myth, is set to open on June 25, running 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: June 25-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 instead celebrate cultural pride and survival.
Where: Museum of Contemporary Art, 140 George St, The Rocks NSW 2000.
When: May 21-October 19.
Price: Tickets from $28.
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: May 9-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: Opens May 14 until October 2026.
Price: Tickets start at $33.
Banksy Limitless
This immersive exhibition is making its way over from London after a successful debut, bringing the voice of one of the most influential figures in contemporary culture Down Under.
Banksy Limitless is an immersive art exhibition presenting a bold journey through the street-art icon’s ideas, imagery and legacy. Running from the beginning of April until the end of August, this multi-sensory exhibition is not one to miss.
Where: 155 George St, The Rocks, 2000.
When: April 3- 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: Running until August 23, 2026.
Price: Free.
