Few things excite Sydneysiders more than a long weekend (myself included!), and with NSW Labour Day coinciding with the spring school holidays, the city is packed with plenty of fun things to do.
This weekend, drop by Taronga Zoo for their After Dark series, which will see the iconic landmark lit up with vivid lanterns, inviting visitors to explore after sunset. Want to start Saturday off right? Stop by Maple Social Club’s free rooftop pool party for an afternoon of fun at the Old Clare Hotel, before catching one of the last remaining shows of the Sydney Fringe Festival at Moore Park’s Entertainment Quarter. Sunday is all about NRL action, with pubs and bars across the city screening the Grand Final between the Brisbane Broncos and the Melbourne Storm. On Monday, make the most of the long weekend by kicking back and soaking up some of Sydney’s incredible talent with RENT The Musical at the iconic Sydney Opera House or Back to the Future: The Musical at the Lyric.
Unmissable Sydney Staples
1. Catch the last of Sydney Fringe Festival
Although the majority of Fringe Festival shows have wrapped up for the year, there are still a few productions going strong into October, with the majority taking place at the Entertainment Quarter in Moore Park. Camp Culture will be showing until October 5, led by “Faboriginal” superstar (and completely unqualified camp leader) Dale Woodbridge Brown. Elixir Revived’s sensational acrobats continue to wow crowds at the Vault, delivering a show that’s equal parts Magic Mike and Cirque du Soleil. The award-winning Giant Balloon Show will be putting on a performance for all ages, featuring feverous balloon sculptures and a high-energy comedic performance.
Where: 122 Lang Rd, Moore Park NSW 2021.
When: Various shows on across the weekend.
Price: Tickets from $20.
2. Taronga After Dark
We all felt Taronga Zoo’s absence at Vivid Sydney this year, so what better way to make up for it than to invite visitors to explore the Zoo after sunset this October? From 5:30pm to 9pm, guests can stroll lantern-lit trails, be enchanted by magical Mermaid Shows, a Sunset Seals for the Wild presentation, enjoy firepits, a food truck village, acoustic music and the Wildlife Cinema, and even climb the Wild Ropes course illuminated at night.
Where: Taronga Zoo, Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman NSW 2088.
When: Friday, October 3 to Saturday, October 12.
Price: Adults: $41, Children: $36, Concession: $37.80, Children under 3: Free.
3. Maple Social Club Rooftop Pool Party
If sunrise runs, coffees and pastries are more your vibe than late nights and morning hangovers, Maple Social Club has you covered. The events experts are hosting a pool party at the Old Clare Hotel— happening every first weekend through Spring. The debut event was a hit, drawing Sydneysiders to the rooftop pool for an afternoon of dancing, fun and good vibes. Make sure to RSVP to the crew at Maple Social Club for full details.
Where: The Old Clare Hotel, 1 Kensington St, Chippendale NSW 2008.
When: Saturday, October 4, 2pm-5pm.
Price: Free entry.
4. Hay St Market After Dark
Hay St Market, located inside Sydney’s famous Paddy’s Markets, have teamed up with Campari to bring spinning DJ sets, live music and exclusive food and drink specials to curate that perfect Friday night vibe. There will be $15 Negronis, along with Negroni and food pairings, including the Campari-based cocktail with dumplings, a cheeseburger or loaded fries, each for $30. Head to Haymarket for the ultimate foodie evening out.
Where: Shop R1.05/13 Hay St, Haymarket NSW 2000.
When: Every Friday from 4pm.
Price: Free.
Savour global flavours at these cultural festivals
5. Oktoberfest at South Eveleigh
Raise your steins at BrewDog’s Oktoberfest Party this weekend. Enjoy German-style food, beers, live music and hilarious competitions including Stein Holding, Hot Dog Eating, Hammering and Best Dressed. The hearty Oktoberfest menu includes the Mixed Grill Oktoberfest (think smoky, cheesy kransky, tangy sauerkraut and glazed pork riblet) as well as the Toulouse pork snail and fresh, warm pretzel. If one day isn’t enough, a two-day pass goes for just $60, giving you entry into the iconic beer hall for a taste of Munich.
Where: South Eveleigh, Locomotive St, Eveleigh NSW 2015.
When: Saturday, October 4 and Sunday, October 5.
Price: Tickets from $40.
6. ST. ALI Italian Film Festival
ST. ALI Italian Film Festival is back for its annual Spring edition with a bellissimo selection of box office hits and award-winning films. Say ciao to Oscar winner Paolo Sorrentino’s latest film LA GRAZIA, which is this year’s Festival Centrepiece, or celebrate the 25th anniversary of the all-star Australian classic coming-of-age drama Looking For Alibrandi which will be presented in a brand new 4k resolution. Head to one of the participating cinemas (including Palace Norton Street, Chauvel Cinema Paddington, Palace Central and Palace Moore Park) to enjoy the powerful films.
Where: Various cinemas across Sydney.
When: Until October 15.
Price: Everyday ticket prices start at $28 for adults.
7. Darling Square Moon Festival
The Moon Festival (also known as the Mid-Autumn Festival) is one of the most celebrated holidays in China and across parts of Asia. Rooted in ancient Chinese customs, the festival began as a way to express gratitude and encourage a fruitful harvest for the coming year.
Darling Square will celebrate the Moon Festival from Saturday, with a two-week program honouring family, friends and gratitude. The festival will feature hundreds of glowing lanterns, illuminated lion dancing, live music and free family-friendly activities, including mooncake clay-making, lantern painting and a scavenger hunt. Participating food and dining outlets will offer themed treats and special deals, including limited-edition desserts, banquet menus and seafood towers. Illuminated lion dancing will run on Saturday 27 September, 4 and 11 October at 6:30pm, with live music showing every Saturday and Sunday.
Where: Darling Square, 35 Tumbalong Bvd, Haymarket NSW 2000.
When: Darling Square: September 27 – October 12.
Price: Free entry.
READ MORE: Sydney gets a double header with two massive Moon Festivals this weekend
What to see on stage this long weekend
8. 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 ready to dazzle Aussie audiences as it makes its debut at the Sydney Lyric Theatre on September 26.
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.
When: Friday, September 26, until Sunday, December 28, 2025.
Where: Sydney Lyric Theatre, 55 Pirrama Rd, Pyrmont NSW 2009
Price: From $89.
9. The Addams Family Musical
The Tony Award-nominated global hit The Addams Family Musical creeps into Leichhardt’s newly revamped Teatro at the Italian Forum for a kooky three-week season of fun. Featuring Morticia, Gomez, Wednesday, Pugsley and the rest of the clan, this comedy sensation follows Wednesday’s romance with a “normal” boy, setting the stage for a whole lot of family chaos. Based on Charles Addams’ iconic characters, this musical comedy is crafted by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice, the Tony-winning duo behind Jersey Boys, as well as an original score by Andrew Lippa.
Where: Teatro at the Italian Forum, 30A Norton Street, Leichardt NSW 2040.
When: October 3-26.
Price: Tickets from $65.
10. Rent at the Sydney Opera House
The Broadway sensation Rent will make its Sydney Opera House debut at the Joan Sutherland Theatre this Saturday, running until the 1st of November. Bringing the energy of New York’s East Village to life, Jonathan Larson’s multi-Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize-winning musical tackles love, loss, friendship and resilience, inspired by Puccini’s iconic opera, La Bohème. Its five-week season in Sydney features a talented cast from hit shows including Hamilton, The Rocky Horror Show and & Juliet.
Where: Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: Saturday, September 27- November 1.
Price: Tickets start at $49.
READ MORE: Hit Broadway show RENT is coming to Sydney this week — here’s everything you need to know
11. When Night Comes
Sydney Fringe Festival top pick When Night Comes has been such a popular production for September that it’s one of the few shows being extended for a few more weeks. Haven’t bought into the hype yet? You now have until October 16 to make tracks over to Union Bond Store in The Rocks and immerse yourself in what reviews have called “Alice in Wonderland for adults”. The unique experience is a hybrid of theatre and cocktail culture, set within a whimsical bacchanalian world that’s brimming with surprises. It’s one of the most interest things you can do this weekend, and should be a major standout for anyone into experimental theatre.
Where: Union Bond Store. corner of George St and Atherden St, The Rocks
When: Until October 16
Price: Tickets start at $71.50
12. Alcotraz: An Interactive Cocktail Experience
There are definitely worse places to be locked up than Alcotraz, the new immersive cocktail experience set to take over Chippendale this weekend. Suit up in orange and step inside the prison-themed bar. Collide with corrupt guards and enjoy a variety of delicious cocktails in your cell as you try not to get caught by the Warden. The fully immersive experience will provide you with a crime-ridden backstory and identity, as well as four cocktails, shaken by the prison canteen convicts. With successful, highly-rated stints in seven cities worldwide, this experience is not one to miss.
Where: 12-16 Chippen Street, Chippendale, NSW 2008.
When: Various sessions commencing October 3, 2025.
Price: Tickets from $65 per person.
Root for your favourite team at these games
13. NRL and NRLW Grand Final
The biggest day on the rugby league calendar is locked in for Sunday, October 5, as the NRL and NRLW Grand Finals come to Sydney’s Accor Stadium. The NRLW decider kicks off at 3:55pm, followed by an exciting performance from Teddy Swims at 6:30pm. Then, at 7:30pm, the NRL Grand Final begins as the Brisbane Broncos face off against Melbourne Storm.
Where: Accor Stadium, Edwin Flack Ave, Sydney Olympic Park NSW 2127.
When: Sunday, October 5.
Price: Tickets from $209.
14. ICF Slalom World Championship
The last time the ICF Slalom World Championship was held in Sydney was 20 years ago. This October, it returns to Penrith Whitewater Stadium, ready to welcome more than 300 athletes from 50 nations, including Australian Olympic gold medalists Jessica and Noemie Fox, as well as Paris Olympians Tim Anderson and Tristan Carter. Across six days, competitors will go head-to-head to crown the Canoe Slalom (C1, K1 and Kayak Cross) world champions. Grab your tickets and witness the thrilling return of this spectacular sporting event to Sydney.
Want to make a day of it? Consult our guide to the perfect day in Penrith.
Where: Penrith Whitewater Stadium, McCarthys Lane, Cranebrook NSW 2749.
When: Monday, September 29- Saturday, October 4.
Price: Adult tickets start at $30.
Concerts to catch this weekend
15. Taylor Swift: The Official Release Party of a Showgirl
Sydney Swifties, rejoice! No, the ERAS tour isn’t returning; however, T-Swift is gearing up to drop her 12th studio album, and to celebrate, Event Cinemas across Sydney will be hosting The Official Release Party of a Showgirl. Guests can see the exclusive world premiere of the music video, “The Fate of Ophelia”, along with behind-the-scenes footage, brand new lyric videos and Taylor’s personal reflections on songs from her new studio album, The Life of a Showgirl.
Where: Bondi Junction, Drive-In Blacktown, Castle Hill, Burwood, Campbelltown, Ed Square, George Street, Hornsby, Hurstville, Liverpool, Macquarie, Miranda, Parramatta, Top Ryde City.
When: Only in cinemas October 4-5.
Price: Adult tickets from $24, Child: $17.80, Student: $19.40.
16. Mozart Requiem at City Recital Hall
Experience Mozart’s masterpiece with Opera Australia. Mozart’s final gift to the world, his Requiem in D Minor, is the stuff of legends, and this one-night-only concert brings it to life with the full force of Opera Australia’s Orchestra and Chorus. You’ll hear the dramatic ‘Dies Irae’ and heart-wrenching ‘Lacrimosa’ alongside orchestral favourites like the overture from The Marriage of Figaro. It’s a sophisticated option for your long weekend that gives you some quality time in the elegant City Recital Hall.
Where: City Recital Hall, Sydney CBD.
When: Saturday, October 4.
Price: Tickets sold out, but waitlist available.
17. Mac the Knife at the Metro Social
Sydney post-punk band Mac the Knife hit the road to launch their debut EP Down to the Wire, a six-track dive into heartbreak, identity, mental health and young love. The band recently performed at the free music festival, King Street Crawl, to a packed-out audience, and there’s no doubt this same hype will surround their upcoming gig at the Metro Social. You may also recognise their lead singer, Bryn Chapman Parish, who’s known for playing the role of Spider in Netflix hit, Heartbreak High.
Where: Metro Social, 624 George Street, Sydney, 2000.
When: Friday, October 3, at 7pm.
Price: From $29.50.
18. Night at the Barracks Manly
Manly’s Night at the Barracks is a yearly concert series in Manly, perched above Sydney Harbour against the beautiful backdrop of North Head. There are still tickets available to performances this weekend, including two-time Golden Guitar Award winner James Johnston on Friday, October 3 and contemporary Australian rock band Grinspoon, who will be celebrating their 30th anniversary as a band. Head to Manly this weekend for an unforgettable night under the stars, complete with live performances from some of Australia’s most exciting acts.
Where: 33 N Head Scenic Dr, Manly NSW 2095.
When: Until October 5 at 5:30pm.
Price: Tickets start at $99.
Keep the kids entertained with these family-friendly activities
19. Enjoy 25% off family passes at Featherdale Wildlife Park
Get ready for Australia’s most hands-on wildlife experience, where kids can actually touch, feed, and interact with native animals in ways that most zoos simply don’t allow. Featherdale Wildlife Park specialises in up-close encounters that’ll have animal-obsessed kids buzzing with excitement. From hand-feeding friendly kangaroos and wallabies to cuddling koalas for that perfect family photo.
The park’s claim to fame is its incredible collection of uniquely Australian animals, including adorable echidnas, cheeky wombats, and colourful rainbow lorikeets that’ll happily perch on little shoulders for feeding time.
To save 25% off their family pass, Book online and enter SPRING25, and get ready for a school holiday adventure that’s as unforgettable as it is affordable.
Where: 217 – 229 Kildare Road, Doonside.
When: 9am – 5pm daily.
Price: Adult tickets are $44 | children’s tickets are $28.
READ MORE: Featherdale Wildlife Park Launches Big Early Bird Spring Sale
20. Transport Heritage Expo
The award-winning Transport Heritage Expo will bring Sydney’s transport history to life this October, celebrating 170 years of the NSW railways with three days of unique experiences. Enjoy a one-hour steam train ride from Central Station on either the Locomotive 3526 or join former Sydney Suburban locomotive 3001, which will make its much-anticipated main line return following restoration in 2023.
Visitors can also experience a Lavendar Bay Electric Train Ride, departing Central Station and heading through Sydney’s Inner West to Ashfield before making an express return through the city’s underground, over the iconic Harbour Bridge and into Lavendar Bay. Other exciting opportunities include the Hydro Aurora High Tea (think delicate pastries, warm scones and delicate finger sandwiches) or opt for a vintage bus ride.
Where: Most journeys leave from Central Station.
When: October 4-6.
Price: Prices vary, but train rides start from $20 for adults, $10 for children.
21. Play! Kids Festival at The Pavilion
South Sydney’s biggest performing arts festival for kids returns with five action-packed days of shows, workshops, and creative activities. The star attraction is ARIA Award-winner Emma Memma’s Dance Island Party, featuring her signature AUSLAN-integrated choreography that gets every kid (and parent) moving. But that’s just the beginning ; watch in wonder as Earth’s massive puppet marine creatures bring the ocean to life in Shark Dive, or feel the rhythm with Junkyard Beats’ award-winning percussion extravaganza.
Between shows, kids can dive into age-appropriate dance workshops, art sessions, and free storytime sessions running throughout each day. The genius Play! Pass lets families experience multiple events for just $50, making it perfect for kids who want to try everything and parents who love a good value deal.
Where: 30 Eton St, Sutherland
When: October 1-5 | activities from 8:45am
Price: Shows from $29 | full day access from $50
22. Become a Keeper for a Day at Taronga Zoo
Taronga Zoo has a jam-packed schedule this school holiday, with adorable new arrivals and exciting experiences including the Wildlife Express Train ride, Wild Ropes Treetop Adventures and Taronga After Dark.
The “Keepers for a Day” program lets young animal lovers step behind the scenes at the zoo and live out their zookeeper dreams. The Junior Keeper experience (ages 8-11) runs from 9am-2:30pm for $170, while the Cadet Keeper program (ages 12-17) runs from 8:15am to 2pm for $190. Each budding keeper will get a participant shirt and a parent can enjoy same-day zoo entry.
Where: Taronga Zoo, Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman NSW 2088.
When: Junior Keeper experience runs from 9am-2:30pm, Cadet Keeper program runs from 8:15am to 2pm.
Price: Junior Keeper experience: $170, Cadet Keeper experience: $190.
23. RELICS: A New World Rises
We recently visited the Australian Museum to get a sneak peek at the new exhibition, RELICS: A New World Rises, and we can confirm it’s a definite must-visit. Combining the fun of LEGO with “more mature and contemporary themes”, the exhibit explores the consequences of our consumerist actions by housing the figurines in dilapidated cars, old furniture and even a broken down jetski.
Perfect for all ages, from kids to adults and grandparents, this immersive experience is described as “equal parts nostalgic and thought-provoking”, as the mini figurines create educational art that appeals to all ages. You’ll even get the opportunity to explore your creative side in the interactive build area, where you can create and display your own model using LEGO® bricks.
Where: The Australian Museum, 1 William St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010.
When: Runs Saturday, August 14, until January 27, 2026.
Price: Adult tickets cost $29, Children tickets cost $19, Children aged 3 and younger go free.
24. Monster Jump Parramatta
Australia’s biggest inflatable obstacle course lands in Parramatta Park this weekend. Perfect for kids, teens and adults, the 280-metre inflatable obstacle course includes over 30 thrilling challenges, promising non-stop fun for families. A two-hour obstacle course pass goes for $30, or opt for a family two-hour pass (which grants four people access) for $110. Not keen about tackling the course? Good news — entry is free for spectators.
Where: Parramatta Park, The Crescent Byrnes Ave, Parramatta NSW 2150
When: September 27- October 12, 2025, 10am- 4pm.
Price: From $30 per person.
READ MORE: What’s on for the 2025 spring school holidays in Sydney?
Visit these incredible art exhibitions
25. Cerith Wyn Evans …. in light of the visible
Head to the MCA in Circular Quay and see Cerith Wyn Evans’ major exhibition titled: Cerith Wyn Evans …. in light of the visible. The Welsh artist and sculptor has created ‘epic contemporary environments of light and sound’ and includes a significant selection of his major works, many of which have never been seen in Australia before. There are mirrored columns, hanging light installations and lots of open space for kids to explore.
Opening to the public on June 6, this striking exhibition is nearing its end at the MCA, wrapping up on October 19 — don’t miss your chance to see it before it goes.
Where: 140 George St, The Rocks NSW 2000.
When: Until October 19, 2025.
Price: Purchase an all-access pass to see this exhibition, costing $35 for adults.
26. 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 opens this Saturday, giving the artist his 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.
Where: Art Gallery of NSW, Sydney.
When: From October 4, 2025.
Price: Free.
27. Yolŋu power: the Art of Yirrkala
The extraordinary artists of Yirrkala, a small Aboriginal community in north-east Arnhem Land, Northern Territory, have been recognised around the world for multiple art forms and the beautifully expressed threads of cultural, political and social history that define their works. The Art Gallery of NSW has displayed a great deal of their work, highlighting the Yirrkala community’s depth of creativity in collaboration with the Indigenous art centre in Yirrkala, Buku-Larrŋgay Mulka.
This breathtaking exhibition, which considers the significant moments in Yirrkala’s artistic history, ends on October 6, meaning that this is the last weekend you’ll be able to see it.
Where: Art Gallery of New South Wales, Naala Badu building, Lower level 2.
When: Finishes on October 6
Price: Adult tickets from $25.
28. Wildlife Photographer of the Year
Now in its 60th year, the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition puts the world’s creatures under the lens. Literally. It’s produced by the Natural History Museum in London, whose anonymous judges whittle down thousands of entires down to the best of the best. More than 59,220 photographers entered their snaps into last year’s competition, entering from 117 countries and territories all over the world.
Of thousands of entries, three Australian photographers were finalists and went on to win their category, including Brisbane-born Jannico Kelk, conservation photojournalist Justin Gilligan and underwater photographer Matthew Smith. The exhibition ends soon on October 19, so head to the Australian National Maritime Museum to enjoy the phenomenal shots.
When: Runs until Sunday, October 19, open daily 10am-4pm.
Where: Australian National Maritime Museum, 2 Murray St, NSW 2000.
Price: Adult $35, child $25, family $89.
Just outside of Sydney
29. Visit the Tulip Time Festival in Bowral
If you’re feeling like a picture-perfect day trip into nature then drive on down to Bowral for the annual Tulip Time Flower Festival. Wrapping on Monday, October 6, the epic nature festival brings in over 80,000 mass planted tulips to the Corbett Gardens in the Southern Highlands, creating a spectacular visual scene that regularly draws in people from all across Australia. It always takes place over the October Long Weekend, so there are plenty of activities being planned for visitors, from walking tours of Bowral’s historic streets to sparkling high teas and long lunches.
Where: Corbett Gardens, Bowral.
When: All October long weekend (from 9am to 4:30pm).
Price: $18-$20 per person from visitsouthernhighlands.com.au.
30. Hunter Valley Balloon Fiesta
Drive up to the Hunter Valley at any point over the October long weekend and you’ll see a spectacular sight. Three-time Australian Ballooning Champion pilot Matt Scaife will be leading the charge as 30 hot air balloons launch at sunrise each day, flying high over the vineyards for a visually unique, Cappadocia-adjacent event that only flies around once a year. Hit up Balloon Aloft if you want to participate as a passenger.
Where: Peterson House, Cnr Broke Road & Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin NSW 2325.
When: Friday, October 3 – Monday, October 6.
Price: Varies from balloonaloft.com.
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