What to do in Sydney this January
January is full of art, music and food. Plus, Sydney Festival and Sydney Lunar Festival are back with a bang.
Party on the Cahill Expressway
Grab your mates and head down to Circular Quay for a free concert with killer views. It’s not every day you can shut down an expressway and dance on top of a train station. Elevate has something for everyone, including families.
Wednesday 4 January to Saturday 7 January
Enjoy over 130 free and ticketed events for Sydney Festival
From a live DJ set by Bonobo to an immersive exhibition on Frida Kahlo, from opera performances in the sand to drum and dance performances – you won’t want to miss this epic arts and culture program. Find the full Sydney Festival line up.
Thursday 5 January to Thursday 29 January
Dance at an intimate gig with techno legend Patrick Topping
Patrick Topping has a reputation as the contemporary face of British house and techno, and his return to Australia has been long awaited. Grab tickets to see him at The Entertainment Quarter’s brand-new Liberty Hall.
Friday 6 January from 9pm to midnight
Watch a movie under the stars
Set on Mrs Macquaries Point against a backdrop that spans the Opera House, Harbour Bridge and city skyline, Westpac OpenAir is a festival of film and food.
Sunday 8 January to Tuesday 21 February
Entertain the little ones with school holiday events
There’s so much to keep children and teens busy through the holidays.
Every day until Thursday 26 January
Dine on fish and chips at Sydney Opera House
Open for a limited time only, The Harbour will transport you back in time paying homage to the original seafood restaurant that operated in the same location in the late 80s.
Kick off your Lunar New Year celebrations with a street party in Haymarket
Sydney Lunar Streets will bring Haymarket to life with live entertainment, roving performers, food trucks, market stalls, DJs and plenty of Instagram moments.
Saturday 21 January from 5pm to 10pm
Celebrate Sydney Lunar Festival
Food, performance, art and more – there’s so many ways to celebrate the Year of the Rabbit.
Saturday 21 January to Sunday 5 February
See the record-breaking Blanc de Blanc Encore
After selling out to audiences all over Australia, the hilarious, acrobatic night out is opening at the exciting new theatre The Grand Electric in Surry Hills.
Saturday 7 January to Saturday 4 March
Learn a new creative skill
Check out the Pine Street Creative Arts program of ceramics, printmaking, jewellery-making and other creative workshops for kids and adults led by experienced tutors.
Throughout January
Have a dose of disco fever at the Sydney Opera House
A dazzling array of acrobats, aerialists, vocalists and a touch of glitter unite for Velvet Rewired.
Until Sunday 5 February
Make your own pottery mug
Start your year sustainably by making your own unique mug.
Wednesday 11 January from 7pm to 10pm
Sunday 22 January from 11am to 2pm
Honour Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures in Australia
Yabun Festival is the largest one-day gathering and recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures in Australia. The free event that features live music, a bustling stalls market, panel discussions and community forums on Aboriginal issues, children’s activities, and traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural performances.
Thursday 26 January from 10am to 10pm
Join a free pool open day for trans and gender diverse communities
An afternoon and evening of relaxation, swimming, sport, food and fun accompanied with music by community DJs at Cook + Phillip Park Pool. This event is open to trans and gender diverse communities including partners, families, friends and allies.
Saturday 28 January from 3pm to 10pm
Immerse yourself in cultures from all over the world
With a world-class line-up of musicians and dancers, international cuisine, arts and crafts markets and activities, enjoy the New Beginnings Festival at the National Maritime Museum.
Saturday 28 January from 3pm to 10pm
Check out the latest exhibition at The White Rabbit Gallery
The artists in Shuo Shu map the evolution of the story from timeless myths and literary romances to political propaganda and modern-day censorship.
Wednesdays to Sundays, 10am to 5pm
Experience the world’s most visited multi-sensory exhibition
Van Gogh Alive gives you the unique opportunity to immerse yourself into Van Gogh’s artistry and truly venture into his world.
Every day