Things to do

What to do in Sydney this August

Try something new with science experiences, poetry performances and live music from the comfort of a hammock. Here are 9 events to add to your calendar.

'Abandon Ship' photographed by Lidia D'Opera, a finalist in this year's Australian Life competition
'Abandon Ship' photographed by Lidia D'Opera, a finalist in this year's Australian Life competition

Get a glimpse of Australian Life

A journey through scenes of connection, resilience and play at this year’s Australian Life photography exhibition. See the competition’s shortlist of 28 photos on display at Customs House Square. Pop inside Customs House to see the world through the lens of Sydney’s youngest photographers at the Little Sydney Lives exhibition.

Until 24 August

Explore Sydney City Farm during National Science Week
Explore Sydney City Farm during National Science Week

Get curious at National Science Week

From DIY experiments to powerful exhibitions, there’s lots to uncover during National Science Week. Learn about nature’s patterns at the Sydney City Farm free open day, get hands on at the Indigenous Science Experience or consider the intersection of science and art.

9 to 17 August

Acclaimed author and musician Nardi Simpson will be performing during National Poetry Month
Acclaimed author and musician Nardi Simpson will be performing during National Poetry Month

Revel in rhymes during National Poetry Month

Words leap off the page for National Poetry Month. Hear from Martin Langford, one of the country’s finest contemporary poets or head to the Art Gallery of NSW for a special poetry-themed Art After Hours.

Various dates in August

Lay back and immerse yourself in a new sonic space

Experience an intimate live music performance from the hammock room at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Hyde Park Barracks. The event promises an evening of sound and melodic experimentation featuring pianist-harpist duo, Germ Studies.

Friday 22 August

Library treasure hunt at City of Sydney libraries
Library treasure hunt at City of Sydney libraries

Go on a library treasure hunt

Pick up your treasure hunt map from a staffed City of Sydney library branch and embark on your adventure to discover clues, collect stamps and unlock surprises. Visit all 9 libraries for your chance to win a Book Week title.

1 to 31 August

The Neighbour and the Gate exhibition at National Art School Galleries
The Neighbour and the Gate exhibition at National Art School Galleries

See a new exhibition of Australian art

The Neighbour at the Gate is an exhibition that brings together the works of leading First Nations and Asian Australian artists. Across various mediums and perspectives, the works in the exhibition chart the entangled legacies of colonialism and immigration.

Fridays and Saturdays until 18 October

Cliff Noble Community Centre free open day
Cliff Noble Community Centre free open day

Explore our community centre in Alexandria

Everyone is invited to join in the fun at the free Cliff Noble Community Centre open day. Meet our friendly team over a sausage sizzle and try gentle exercise classes, crafts, singing and games groups.

Thursday 21 August

NSW Wine winter cellar door at Carriageworks
NSW Wine winter cellar door at Carriageworks

Sip through the state of regional wines

Get a taste of the best wines from NSW at this winter cellar door event at Carriageworks. Meet the makers from 20 of the best local wineries and pair it with great food and music.

Sunday 17 August

Aboriginal Harbour Heritage Tour at the Royal Botanic Garden
Aboriginal Harbour Heritage Tour at the Royal Botanic Garden

Go on an Aboriginal heritage tour of Sydney Harbour

Stroll through the Royal Botanic Garden and along the foreshore with your First Nations guide and admire the beauty and history of Sydney Harbour through the lens of the local Gadigal people.

Thursdays to Saturdays until 30 August

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