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Editor’s Pick
January is when Sydney truly comes alive, as the packed lineup of theatre, sporting events, concerts and more meets the warm weather, long evenings and blazing sun. Where else would you want to be?
This month, I’m excited to see what the Sydney Festival has to offer, with various shows popping up all over the city. With a program featuring everything from a roller derby production to cabaret shows and dance pop parties, there’s a plethora of performances, activations and events to explore and enjoy. The return of Westpac Open Air Cinema brings back the perfect summer date night activity, with the big screen set against a stunning harbour view, earning it the title of “world’s most beautiful cinema”. Although I missed out on Ashes tickets, I’ll be getting my cricket fix with a trip to the SCG to watch the Big Bash League (live sport and schooners in the sun, what’s better?) I’ll be making use of the free Pickleball courts at South Eveleigh as well as partying the night away at nearby Carriageworks, which is hosting THE WORKS, a series of warehouse events throughout January with an absolutely stacked lineup.
Read on for our top picks for the best things to do in Sydney in January and get planning the perfect start to 2026.
Sydney Staples
1. Sydney Festival
January marks the return of Sydney Festival, the ultimate citywide cultural takeover, which kicks off on the 8th and runs until January 25th. The festival will feature two weeks of trailblazing theatre, music, dance, installation, and all kinds of bold and bonkers live performances that embrace the art of summer in Sydney. Highlights of the program include the heartwarming roller skating-centred play Mama Does Derby, the street shutdown slash movie set extravaganza Live on Hickson Road: Efectos Especiales and the kaleidoscopic Irish variety show, WAKE.
You can explore the full program here, or discover what experts are tipping as this year’s must-see shows here.
Where: Citywide.
When: January 8 to January 25, 2026.
Price: Price varies depending on the event, with some ticketed and some free performances.
2. Australia Day
The mantra for Australia Day is “Reflect. Respect. Celebrate,” with numerous free events and activities scheduled around Sydney on January 26, a national holiday for Australians. Highlights include the Dawn Reflection, which sees the iconic Sydney Opera House sails lit up with spectacular Aboriginal artwork, the Ferrython, where four of Sydney;s Emerald Class ferries race to the Harbour Bridge, and the Australia Day Live Concert and fireworks.
When marking Australia Day, it’s important to recognise that the date holds deep and complex significance for First Nations Australians. We encourage visitors to reflect respectfully and take time to learn about the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures and perspectives. You can find guidance on how to engage thoughtfully with the day here.
Where: Citywide events.
When: January 26, 2026.
3. The World’s Most Beautiful Cinema
The Westpac Open Air Cinema is often labelled the world’s most beautiful, thanks to its prime location, perched on Mrs Macquaries Point, in front of the iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge view. This Friday sees its return to the Botanic Gardens, opening with a showing of the acclaimed new Timothee Chalamet film, Marty Supreme. The stunning cinema will continue showcasing a curated mix of classic favourites, indie smashes and exciting new releases through to February 24, so book your tickets now and get excited for not just the movie, but the unbeatable backdrop too. You can check out the full program for the cinema here.
Where: Mrs Macquaries Point, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: Running from Friday, January 9, until Tuesday, February 24, 2026.
Price: From $40.
4. Sunset Sessions at Cockatoo Island
Cockatoo Island returns with its popular Sunset Sessions, running from January through April and showcasing a lineup of talented musicians on its Biloela Lawn stage every Saturday. You can enjoy the low-key performances from the comfort of your picnic blanket as the sun sets over the picturesque Sydney Harbour. Tickets cost $38 per person, with children 12 and under welcome for free with a paying adult. To get to the famous island, simply hop on the F3 and F8 public ferries from Circular Quay or Barangaroo.
Where: Cockatoo Island.
When: Saturdays from January 10 until April 4, 2026.
Price: Adult tickets: $38 per person.
5. THE WORKS at Carriageworks
Carriageworks continues to prove that it’s the coolest cultural precinct in Sydney with its latest series, THE WORKS, featuring six high-end warehouse events through the month. The series will include incredible sets by Underworld, I Hate Models and Ben Böhmer, as well as the Netherlands’ house hero Chris Stussy alongside the UK’s next big breakout stars, Josh Baker and Propsa. You can also see the popular duo CamelPhat take to the Carriageworks stage, before the series closes out with Michael Bibi on January 25.
Where: 245 Wilson St, Eveleigh NSW 2015.
When: Various shows until January 25, 2026.
Price: Tickets from $99.99.
What’s on in Theatre
6. Gatsby at the Green Light
After the sell-out success of its premiere season, GATSBY at the Green Light will return for a sultry stint at the Sydney Opera House this weekend. Transforming the Studio into a 1920s-inspired club, the show revolves around cabaret, outlandish performances and all the glitz and glamour of the Roaring Twenties.
Despite being inspired by F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic novel, the show doesn’t follow the storyline exactly; instead, it immerses audiences in the dazzling world of Gatsby’s legendary parties. Think debauchery, sensuality and opulence. The show will feature ARIA Award-nominated artist Odette, who will sing soulful tunes as performers spin, twirl and fly through the air. Canadian circus artist Spencer Craig, who specialises in aerial loop, will be hosting the show as charismatic yet mysterious Gatsby. Soaring by his side will be daring Caitlin Thomson-Moylan, who will play his eternal (but doomed) love Daisy.
Where: The Studio at Sydney Opera House.
When: From December 13, 2025, until March 28, 2026.
Price: From $59 plus booking fee.
7. Barbra: The Greatest Star
The Hayes Theatre in Potts Point is back with an exciting new tribute show, dedicated to the iconic Barbra Streisand. The show is a collaboration between powerhouse director and performer Brittanie Shipway and three other incredible vocalists, Tana Laga’aia, Laura Murphy and Stellar Perry, as well as a live three-piece band. Expect new perspectives on songs you love, a few surprises along the way and a show that celebrates Barbra Streisand’s legendary humour and ground-breaking impact on music and culture.
Where: Hayes Theatre, 19 Greenknowe Ave, Potts Point NSW 2011.
When: January 21- February 14, 2026.
Price: Tickets from $55.
8. The Book of Mormon
Regarded by many as one of the funniest (and most outrageous) musicals of all time, The Book of Mormon was written by the masterminds behind South Park, Trey Parker and Matt Stone. The musical tells the story of two young missionaries from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: “perfect” Elder Kevin Price and socially-awkward Elder Arnold Cunningham.
Kevin hopes his mission will take him to sunny Orlando, Florida, but instead, the mismatched pair are sent to a remote village in Uganda. The result is chaos, comedy and a lot of outrageous satire. We won’t spoil the show, but if you want to find out more, read our review here.
When: Showing until Sunday, January 25, 2026.
Where: Capitol Theatre, 13 Campbell Street, Haymarket NSW 2000.
Tickets: From $69 per person.
READ MORE: The Book of Mormon is back in Sydney — here’s everything you need to know
9. Duck Pond
World-class ensemble Circa brings its extraordinary production Duck Pond to the Sydney Opera House this weekend, delivering soaring aerials, gravity-defying balances and daring leaps. Inspired by Swan Lake and The Ugly Duckling, the high-energy spectacle blends sharp humour with jaw-dropping stunts and seemingly impossible feats. Watch out for sequinned, flipper-wearing ducks, a burlesque black swan and a whole flock of acrobats ready to make you gasp, laugh and applaud.
Where: Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: Friday, January 9- Monday, January 12, 2026.
Price: Tickets from $79.
10. Back to the Future: The Musical
When it opened in London, Back to the Future: The Musical quickly became a success story, scooping up the Best New Musical award at the Laurence Olivier and What’s On Stage awards. It also swiftly transferred to Broadway. Now, the musical is dazzling Sydneysiders at the Lyric Theatre, with breathtaking visuals and a real flying DeLorean.
The exciting cast lineup includes Tony Award-winning actor Roger Bart, who will reprise the role of Doc Brown, having impressed audiences in both the West End and Broadway. Starring opposite him as Marty McFly will be Axel Duffy, a rising star from Brisbane. You can read our review of the new production here.
Unfortunately, the show will close prematurely on January 25, 2026, and will not complete its tour of Australia as previously planned. Make sure to support the show and catch it at the Lyric this summer, before it packs up Down Under for good.
When: September 26, until January 25, 2026.
Where: Sydney Lyric Theatre, 55 Pirrama Rd, Pyrmont NSW 2009.
Price: From $89.
11. Madama Butterfly by Opera Australia
Back by popular demand, this must-see production of Puccini’s famous opera features some of the world’s best singers as well as emerging Australian stars. Elaborate staging includes a real moat dotted with floating candles, Japanese paper screens and colourful costumes. The audience will be transported to Nagasaki, where they’ll follow the story of Cio-Cio San, a young woman who falls in love and marries Pinkerton, a US Navy lieutenant. In doing so, she gives up her family and life as she knows it, only to be brutally betrayed by Pinkerton, which leads to her ultimate demise.
Head to the iconic Sydney Opera House to witness a production that has earned its place as one of the most-loved and widely performed operas of all time.
Where: Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: Showing until March 25, 2026.
Price: From $79.
Gigs and Concerts
12. Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds at The Domain
Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds will bring their incredible live production, THE WILD GOD TOUR, to the beautiful Domain at the Botanic Gardens of Sydney this January. Performing a setlist drawn from their latest album, as well as hits from their forty-year music career, the two-and-a-half hour performance is sure to delight longtime fans and win over some new ones in Sydney.
Where: The Domain, Art Gallery Rd, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: Friday, January 23 and Saturday, January 24, 2026.
Price: From $179.90.
13. Tom Odell at Hordern Pavilion
British singer-songwriter Tom Odell, known for his hit “Another Love” (which has over three billion Spotify streams), returns to Sydney this January as part of his Wonderful Life Tour. His powerful vocals, paired with the heartfelt lyricism of his songs, create a sense of connection and comfort at every concert. His seventh studio album, A Wonderful Life, showcases Tom Odell’s signature depth and introspection, forging an intimacy between performer and audience that is at once universal and deeply personal.
Where: Hordern Pavilion, 1 Driver Ave, Moore Park NSW 2021.
When: Friday, January 16, 2026.
Price: From $91.70.
14. Renee Rapp at Hordern Pavilion
Gen-Z icon and critically acclaimed singer-songwriter Reneé Rapp will head Down Under this January for a series of first-ever Australian headline shows. Showcasing material from her sophomore album BITE ME, Reneé is sure to put on an incredible show as she enters an exciting new chapter in her career. The “I Think I Like You Better When You’re Gone” and “Tummy Hurts” singer has sold out her two nights at Hordern Pavilion; however, tickets may be available to purchase on resale platforms like Tixel.
Where: Hordern Pavilion, 1 Driver Ave, Moore Park NSW 2021.
When: January 29 and 30, 2026.
Price: Tickets from $122.24.
15. Yungblud at Qudos Bank Arena
British rockstar Yungblud was originally set to play at Sydney’s Horden Pavilion; however, due to overwhelming demand for tickets, the star will now perform at Qudos Bank Arena on the same date. With an incredible eight billion global streams to his name, Yungblud is bringing his IDOLS world tour to Australia for some of his biggest shows yet. Fans can expect a performance showcasing his trademark electrifying stage presence, powerful love vocals and a dynamic mix of live instrumentation.
Where: Hordern Pavilion, 1 Driver Ave, Moore Park NSW 2021.
When: January 10, 2026, doors at 6pm.
Price: Tickets from $99.90.
16. Aminé at Enmore Theatre
Known for his hit songs “Caroline”, “Reel It In” and “Blackjack”, American rapper Aminé will bring his signature flair to the Enmore Theatre as part of the Australian leg of his Tour de Dance. He’ll perform fan favourites as well as tracks from his recently released album, 13 Months of Sunshine, which proves the artist’s status as a fiercely talented singer and songwriter. Head to the Inner West’s favourite concert hall for a night of tunes, storytelling and all-around good vibes.
Where: 118-132 Enmore Rd, Newtown NSW 2042.
When: Saturday, January 10 2026 at 8pm.
Price: From $91.70.
Art Exhibitions and Galleries
17. The Hooligans at White Rabbit Art Gallery
White Rabbit Art Gallery in Chippendale is home to one of the world’s most significant collections of contemporary Chinese art. It recently reopened with a bold new exhibition, titled The Hooligans, which will run until May next year. The new exhibition has been introduced by the gallery as exploring the term “Hooligans”, with its summary stating, “rabble-rousers, riffraff, scoundrels, and criminals. Troublemakers, wanderers, deviants, misfits. They’ve gone by many names — but to the Chinese state, they were once known simply as The Hooligans.“
The Hooligans explores how Chinese artists learned to think beyond imposed boundaries in the face of relentless restrictions, using a variety of media to celebrate speaking up, daring to defy and refusing to cooperate. Exhibitions at White Rabbit Gallery are free to enter, so if you’re looking to peruse a gallery without breaking the bank, White Rabbit should be top of your list.
Where: White Rabbit Art Gallery, 30 Balfour Street, Chippendale, NSW 2000.
When: Friday, 19 December-May 17, 2026.
Price: Free entry.
Click here for more information.
18. Encounter by Ron Mueck
Internationally celebrated artist Ron Mueck returns to Australia with a major new exhibition. Encounter is the largest exhibition by the artist ever to be presented in Australia, and comprises sculptures drawn from across the globe. If Mueck’s recent exhibition in Seoul is anything to go by, where 100,000 people visited in just 20 days, Encounter is set to draw huge numbers in Sydney. Of the 15 sculptures featured in the exhibition, nine are making their Australian debut, with one never-before-seen work, Havoc, commissioned especially for Sydney.
Mueck is known for his hyperrealistic sculptures, which range from minute to massive, conveying themes that explore our relationship with the world, including birth, death, alienation and togetherness. We had a first look at the exhibition last week, and you can check out our review of the incredible works here.
Where: Art Gallery of NSW, Naala Badu, Lower Level 2, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: December 6, 2025- April 12, 2026.
Price: Adult tickets: $35, Youth: $18.
19. Data Dreams: Art and AI at the MCA
The first of its kind in a major Australian Museum, the new exhibition at the MCA, Data Dreams: Art and AI, considers artificial intelligence and its impact on contemporary life through the work of 10 visionary artists. Presented as part of the Sydney International Art Series 2025-26, this Aussie premiere explores how AI is transforming the way we live, think and create, focusing on a range of concerns, including the relationship between technology and power, and how algorithms and datasets are influencing our worldviews. Experience the immersive installations, AI-generated films, hallucinatory images, and mind-expanding sculptures as you delve into the fascinating, yet also frightening, world of artificial intelligence.
Where: Galleries Level 3, MCA, 140 George St, The Rocks NSW 2000.
When: November 21, 2025- April 27, 2026.
Price: Adult tickets are $35, Concession $28. Under 18s go free. You can buy your tickets here.
20. Ocean Photographer of the Year Exhibition
The premier exhibition of the Ocean Photographer of the Year opened at the Australian National Maritime Museum last week, showcasing a striking collection of winning and finalist images from over 15,000 global entries. Featuring 112 breathtaking images that celebrate the beauty of our ocean and highlight the importance of marine conservation, the exhibition raises awareness about the climate crisis affecting our natural world. From tiny baby pufferfish to majestic humpback whales, the display aims to celebrate the brilliance and diversity of ocean life, with Sydney being the first city in the world to show the full collection of images on display.
Where: Australian National Maritime Museum, 2 Murray Street, Darling Harbour, NSW 2000.
When: Running until May 3, 2026.
Price: Special exhibition tickets start at $25 per adult.
21. Ricky Swallow, Bent Forms
Who would’ve thought that what was missing from your shot of the Opera House was a giant bent stainless steel spoon? Ricky Swallow’s commission for the MCA’s Loti Smorgon Sculpture Terrace sees four huge spoons dotted across the lookout. They were created by Swallow from scaled-up wax prints of actual teaspoons, which he bent into various shapes. Head to the terrace and enjoy panoramic views of Sydney’s iconic harbour as you check out the wacky pieces of art by Swallow. If you loved Sculpture by the Sea, this exhibition is also worth a visit.
Where: Loti Smorgon Sculpture Terrace, MCA, 140 George St, The Rocks NSW 2000.
When: Showing until July 20, 2026.
Price: Admission from $20.
22. Dangerously Modern
This brand-new exhibition at the Art Gallery of NSW celebrates the remarkable women artists who overcame social barriers to forge international careers beyond Australia. This exciting exhibition is the first to celebrate the vital role of Australian women in shaping international modernism, featuring iconic figures like Margaret Preston, Nora Heysen and Grace Cossington Smith, as well as the under-recognised Agnes Goodsir, Justine Kong Sing and Helen Stewart. The exhibition will show more than 200 works, expanding visitors’ understanding of modern art movements, including realism, impressionism, post-impressionism, cubism and abstraction.
Where: Art Gallery of NSW, Art Gallery Rd, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: Running until February 15, 2026.
Price: Adult tickets: $35, Youth: $18.
23. Mike Hewson: The Key’s Under the Mat
New Zealand-born, Sydney-based artist Mike Hewson is next in a long line of artists aching to take over 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.
Mike Hewson: The Key’s Under The Mat opened last Saturday, and is the current talk of the art world. It marks the artist’s first solo presentation in an art museum, a platform to heighten his unique approach to what an all-ages playground looks like. 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.
Sporting Events and Activations
24. Cricket: The Ashes, Big Bash
Australia and England meet again at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), after a series of test matches at Perth Stadium, The Gabba (Brisbane), Adelaide Oval and Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Even though Australia already won the Ashes in the third test match, camaraderie, competitiveness, and schooners in the sunshine mean that a day out at the Ashes is always in high demand.
Still chasing your cricket fix? See the Sydney Sixers battle the Hobart Hurricanes on January 11, then enjoy the Sydney showdown against the Sydney Thunder on January 16, both at the SCG as part of the Big Bash League (BBL).
Where: Sydney Cricket Ground, 4 Driver Ave, Moore Park NSW 2021.
When: Ashes: January 4-8, Big Bash: January 11 and 16, 2026.
Price: Tickets for the Ashes are soldout; however, there are resale options on platforms like viagogo. Tickets start at $29.04 for the BBL.
25. Play pickleball at South Eveleigh
Pickleball is the latest craze sweeping Sydney, and South Eveleigh has popped up its very own court in the heart of the precinct, inviting Sydneysiders to drop by and learn how to play the fast-growing sport. Innovation Plaza has transformed into a Pickleball hub, with beginner lessons available on Wednesdays from 3:30pm-7:30pm and Saturdays from 7:30am- 12:30pm. Outside of lesson times, the court will be open for free casual play, giving visitors the perfect opportunity to perfect their pickleball technique.
Where: South Eveleigh, Innovation Plaza (near BrewDog).
When: January 6 until February 1, 2026, courts open daily from 7:30am-7:30pm.
Price: $10 per person, maximum 4 players per session.
26. The United Cup
Didn’t get tickets to the Australian Open? Or maybe you don’t fancy the trek down to Melbourne? Head to the United Cup at Sydney Olympic Park’s Ken Rosewall Arena to get your tennis fix. The international hard court tennis competition features mixed-gender teams from 18 different countries. Tennis stars participating include Coco Gauff, Taylor Fritz, Emma Raducanu and Naomi Osaka, with tickets available to the Quarter Final, Semi Final and Finals across the weekend.
Where: Ken Rosewall Arena, Cnr Olympic Vlvd & Shirley Strickland Ave, Sydney Olympic Park, NSW 2127.
When: Friday, January 2-Sunday, January 11, 2026.
Price: Tickets from $50.
