The jacarandas are in full bloom, Bondi’s coastal walk has transformed into an open-air art gallery, and World Champagne Day is on Friday. It’s shaping up to be a stellar weekend, so start making your plans now.
This weekend, I’ll be kicking off celebrations with Veuve Cliquot and a smashed lobster burger as part of Solotel’s World Champagne Day offerings (what better way to start the weekend?). On Saturday, I’ll head out West to Parramatta Lanes, one of Sydney’s biggest street parties, to feast on mouthwatering street food, enjoy performances from local music talent and explore the full takeover of the Eat Street car park, which has been transformed into a huge multi-sensory playground. My Sunday will be spent at the MCA, checking out the giant spoon sculptures by Ricky Swallow, before dropping by Sol Coffee Club’s midday darts and drinks event in the Rocks (think salted caramel espresso martinis, free darts and discounted house drinks).
Sydney Staples
1. Sculpture by the Sea
Sculpture by the Sea is one of Sydney’s premier springtime activities, turning the iconic Bondi to Tamarama cliff walk into a string of site-specific art installations. This year’s iteration is one of the best yet, featuring wacky, beautiful and striking pieces of art set against one of the most iconic landscapes in Australia.
The 2km long sculpture walk features around 100 works by artists from across the world, dotted along the famous coastal walk, as well as a section called “Sculpture Inside”, hosted in a large marquee in Marks Park. Our advice? Visit Sculpture by the Sea on a weekday, either in the early morning to avoid the crowds. Sunrise is not as busy as sunset, so you’ll want to wake up early if you really want to avoid the crowds and enjoy your happy snaps with fewer people milling about the sculptures.
Where: Bondi to Tamarama walk.
When: Friday, October 17 to November 3.
Price: Free.
READ MORE: First look: I went to Sculpture by the Sea 2025 and these are my favourites
2. Parramatta Lanes
Parramatta Lanes revolves around three things: Eats, Beats, and Art. This year’s edition features 20 festival sites across the suburb, packed with over 80 street food stalls, pop-up bars, art installations and music stages. Over 200 artists will take to the various stages, with a concert for every vibe, from RnB and EDM to punk, indie and country. Art installations will be popping up across the site, including a giant inflatable artwork by Western Sydney artist Haein Kim, and a gravity-defying aerial spectacle by Legs on the Wall. Also featured is the Powerhouse Museum, which will pop up with Powerhouse Lane, a celebration of the sounds and flavours of Western Sydney at Horwood Place.
Parramatta Lanes will also be taking over the entire multi-level Eat Street Car Park and transforming it into a full-blown sensory playground. There’ll be line dancing, a glow-in-the-dark dessert lab, a silent disco, immersive art and a top-level rooftop hangout complete with city views. Although general entry is free, Parramatta Lanes also features some ticketed events, including the first-ever edition of Boodle Fight, an authentic kamayan-style dining experience hosted in a decorated marquee in the heart of the festival, starting at $65 per person.
Where: Various locations around Parramatta.
When: October 22-25, 5pm until 10:30pm.
Price: General admission is free.
3. Oktoberfest in the Gardens
Named as one of the top five Oktoberfest celebrations outside of Munich, Oktoberfest in the Gardens is a touring carnivalesque celebration of beer, entertainment and sing-alongs. This weekend, Oktoberfest in the Gardens will once again transform The Domain into an epic scene of Bavarian-style bier tents, rides and live music from traditional Oompah bands to a rotating roster of DJs. For a good eight hours, Sydney will become a sub for Munich’s wildest yearly celebration, pitching a similar sense of style with an expected crowd of more than 20,000 expected to snap up tickets well before the event.
Where: The Domain, Sydney.
When: Saturday, October 25, from 12pm.
Price: From $89.90 from oktoberfestinthegardens.com.au
Where to Eat and Sip
4. Celebrate World Champagne Day with Solotel
World Champagne Day pops into the calendar this Saturday, and we’re practically fizzing with excitement. Answering our prayers is Solotel, who is partnering with Veuve Cliquot and Brolos Western Rock Lobster to launch Cliquot and Claws, a limited-time indulgence to showcase the iconic pairing. They’ll be offering an exclusive menu across five of their venues, including Aria, Barangaroo House, Chiswick, Chophouse Terrace and North Bondi Fish, featuring a smashed Brolos lobster burger ($25) and Brolos grilled half lobster with herb & garlic butter, and frites ($45), which you can pair with a glass of Veuve for $15. Visitors to these venues can also opt for a bottle of Veuve for $99.
Running from Friday until Sunday, November 2, head to one of the glamorous venues for a selection of buttery lobster dishes and a boujie glass of bubbles.
Where: Select Solotel venues: Aria, Barangaroo House, Chiswick, Chophouse Terrace and North Bondi Fish.
When: Friday, October 24, until Sunday, November 2.
Price: Varies depending on order.
5. Sol Coffee Club: Darts and Drinks
Sol Coffee Club is a community-driven social collective redefining how Sydney connects, built on a simple idea: that coffee is community. The collective takes advantage of Sydney’s world-class coffee by bringing guests together in relaxed, welcoming spaces, from café takeovers to art nights and live music sessions. Whether you want to catch up over a flat white or gossip with an espresso martini in hand, Sol Coffee Club will have an event for you.
The next event in the Sol Coffee Club calendar is a Darts & Espresso Martini night at Flight Club in the Rocks. Expect free darts, discounted house drinks and flowing salted caramel espresso martinis. To stay up to date, keep an eye on their Instagram @solcoffeeclub.
Where: Fight Club, 135 Harrington St, The Rocks NSW 2000.
When: Sunday, October 26, 12pm-2pm.
Price: Free entry and darts.
6. Messinaville Launch Party
Sydney gelato institution Messina began as a humble Darlinghurst shop in 2002, and has since become the city’s ultimate go-to for ice cream lovers. This Saturday, they’re hosting a huge launch party for Messinaville, their Marrickville HQ, which features their flagship gelato store, a chocolate counter, their offices and the full production factory, where everything that is served up in their various stores is made. They’re hosting a full-blown party to celebrate the grand opening of Messinaville, featuring a day of gelato, food and fun.
The jam-packed day features coffees and pastries from Shadow Bakery from 8am, Mango Pancakes in the carpark from 12pm, free factory tours from 10am and the opening of their brand new summer garden spot, Erin’s Spritz Garden, from 12pm. There are also chances to enter giveaways, secure discount vouchers and also win some Messina credit.
Where: Messinaville, 1 Rich Street, Marrickville.
When: Saturday, October 25, 8am until late.
Price: Free to join the fun.
7. Indulge at the Crown Sydney Degustation at Epicurean
The Epicurean restaurant, which boasts striking harbour views, is hosting a glamorous degustation experience this weekend, featuring dishes that have defined Crown Sydney’s iconic restaurants. Think Nobu’s legendary Miso Cod, a’Mare’s trottole pesto and other menu favourites from Woodcut, Icebergs Harbour Bar and Golden Century. Across the two-night event, an all-star lineup of Australian top chefs will take part, including Ross Lusted of Woodcut, Alessandro Pavoni of a’Mare, Harold Hurtada from Nobu, Billy Wong of Golden Century and Icebergs’ Executive Chef, Alex Pritchard.
You can secure your tickets to the exciting foodie event here.
Where: 1 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo NSW 2000.
When: October 24 and 25, 5:30pm-9:30pm.
Price: $295 per person, beverages are charged additionally on consumption.
Markets and Shopping
8. Carriageworks Farmers Markets
A favourite for locals and tourists alike, Carriageworks Farmers Markets brings an array of fresh produce from all over the country to the precinct in Eveleigh. Whether you’re after homemade butter, granola and yogurt bowls, fresh flowers or organic wines, there’s something for everyone. Grab a loaf of bread from A.P. Bakery’s stall, or pick out some super-fresh veggies from one of the many stalls. After your shopping spree, chill out and perch on one of the many seats, which provide the perfect opportunity for people watching.
Where: 245 Wilson St, Eveleigh NSW 2015.
When: Open Every Saturday, 8am-1pm.
Price: Free entry.
9. The Italian Forum Twilight Market
The Italian Forum Twilight Market lights up Leichhardt’s iconic “Little Italy” every Saturday, celebrating community, culture and creativity. Set in the piazza, the markets will offer up a curated mix of artisan food and Italian street eats, local makers and handmade goods, with live music and entertainment to keep the vibes high. The European, open-air setting makes it the perfect way to spend a warm spring evening, whether with family, mates or a date.
Where: Norton Street, Leichhardt NSW 2040.
When: 25 October 2025, 4pm-9pm.
Price: Free entry.
10. Gymea Village Festival
The Gymea Village Festival returns this Sunday, transforming Gymea Bay Road into a vibrant celebration of community spirit. The festival will feature over 250 stalls, live music, fairground rides, roving entertainers and a lively street party atmosphere. This year’s festival also introduces some brand-new features, including an international hot food area on South Street, bringing cuisines from around the world. Local restaurant Fior will operate a special outdoor bar in front of their venue, and there will even be the chance to enjoy Go Karting and the popular “Reptile Man” show.
Where: Gymea Bay Road, Gymea, NSW.
When: Sunday, 26 October, 9am-4pm.
Price: Free entry.
Concerts and Gigs
11. Royal Otis at the Hordern Pavilion
Indie pop duo Royal Otis are set to play their biggest Australian show yet, taking to the stage at the Hordern Pavilion for a massive homecoming performance. The Sydneysiders are currently on tour for their sophomore album hickey, which includes the infectious new single ‘car’. Don’t miss your chance to catch the duo live as they continue their meteoric rise, fresh off more than 100 sold-out shows in 2024 and over 100,000 tickets sold across Australia, the UK, Europe and the US.
Where: Hordern Pavilion, 1 Driver Ave, Moore Park NSW 2021.
When: Friday, October 24 and Saturday, October 25.
Price: From $89.90.
12. James Blunt at Qudos Bank Arena
Following a successful national 2024 tour, James Blunt is back to celebrate the 20th anniversary of his debut album Back to Bedlam, which he will play in its entirety alongside all his other classic hits. Promising to deliver “an unforgettable show”, fans will be able to hear number one singles, including “You’re Beautiful” and “Goodbye My Lover”, as well as other notable tracks “High” and “Wisemen”. Blunt is also bound to bring his signature cheekiness and hilarious commentary to the show, making it an unforgettable evening.
Where: Qudos Bank Arena, 19 Edwin Flack Ave, Sydney Olympic Park NSW 2127.
When: Saturday, October 25, at 7pm.
Price: Tickets start at $109.90.
What’s on in Theatre
13. Phar Lap: The Electro-Swing Musical
The Sydney Fringe Festival may be over; however, wacky and wonderful theatre is here to stay. Enter Phar Lap: The Electro-Swing Musical. Written by award-winning music director and composer Steven Kramer, this comedy explores the life of Phar Lap, Australia’s most famous racehorse, in what Kramer calls “the true underdog story”.
Kramer is on a mission to prove that Australia doesn’t need to rely on theatre imports — he wrote Phar Lap: The Musical as proof that Aussie theatre can stand proudly on its own. Independent venue Hayes Theatre in Potts Point hosted the debut of the new musical comedy last week, with Joel Granger taking on the role of Phar Lap. Audiences may recognise Granger from Australian productions of The Book of Mormon, Hairspray and West Side Story. He also recently starred as Benny Southstreet alongside Cody Simpson in Guys and Dolls with Opera Australia, proving that while the venue may be intimate, the talent is top-tier.
Where: Hayes Theatre, 19, Greenknowe Ave, Potts Point NSW 2011.
When: October 17-November 22.
Price: From $60 per person.
14. Shakesbeer Sessions: Twelfth Night
If you’re a fan of Sh*tfaced Shakespeare, or just love a good laugh and a cold beer, don’t miss the upcoming Shakesbeer Sessions, the brilliantly boozy, high-energy shows put on by Sydney’s favourite pub theatre troupe, Bar’d Work. They’ll be returning to some of Sydney’s most popular pubs with a riotous, 90-minute adaptation of one of Shakespeare’s greatest hits, Twelfth Night. Get ready for an evening of fast-paced, fun and famously interactive theatre, which will feature plenty of opportunities to raise a glass.
This weekend see the company hit the Ivanhoe Hotel in Manly on Friday, the Coledale RSL on Saturday and The Oaks in Neutral Bay on Sunday. You can grab your tickets for the performances here.
Where: Venues around the city including in Surry Hills, Petersham, Balmain, Glebe, Coledale, Leichhardt, Caringbah, & Neutral Bay.
When: October 23- November 16.
Price: Pre-sale: $32 and Door Sales: $35
15. Rent at the Sydney Opera House
Broadway sensation Rent made its Sydney Opera House debut at the Joan Sutherland Theatre last week, reaffirming the hit show’s cultural relevance and killer soundtrack. 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.
You can read our review of the show here.
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
16. 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.
When: Friday, September 26, until Sunday, December 28, 2025.
Where: Sydney Lyric Theatre, 55 Pirrama Rd, Pyrmont NSW 2009
Price: From $89.
17. 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, the musical is crafted by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice, the Tony-winning duo behind Jersey Boys, as well as an original score by Andrew Lippa.
You can read our review here.
Where: Teatro at the Italian Forum, 30A Norton Street, Leichardt NSW 2040.
When: October 3-26.
Price: Tickets from $65.
18. 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: Now showing until Sunday, November 30, 2025. Shows take place on most Tuesdays–Thursdays 7pm, Fridays 7:30pm, Saturdays 2pm & 7:30pm and Sundays 1pm & 6:30pm.
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
Art Exhibitions and Galleries
19. 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.
20. Dangerously Modern: Australian Women Artists in Europe 1890-1940
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: October 11- February 15, 2026.
Price: Adult tickets: $35, Youth: $18.
21. 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: From October 4, 2025.
Price: Free.
