Youth Week is an opportunity for young people to express their ideas and views, act on issues that affect their lives, and create and enjoy activities and events.

This year it runs from 20 to 30 April and young people aged 12 to 24 are invited to get involved.

“Sydney wouldn’t be the same without the vibrancy of our younger citizens, who bring energy, creativity and a zest for new ideas to our city,” the Lord Mayor Clover Moore said.

“Youth Week puts young people front and centre. The festival provides a variety of free activities: from camps to BBQs to surf lessons and art classes, providing community and connection."

Here are 4 events to check out.

Join the gamers taking over historic Customs House

Bring your friends and get set for a free night of gaming. From arcade machines to Mario Kart, a Ruins of Sydney Miniatures Tournament and more, there’s something for everyone.

There’ll also be live music and DJs.

Thursday 20 April from 5pm to 9pm. More info.

Catch young talent at a busking showcase in Pitt Street Mall

Pitt Street Mall is the busiest and most high-profile busking spot in Sydney. Watch as Sydney’s youngest and most talented buskers take over Sydney’s busiest busking spot.

Located in 3 spots along the mall, performers aged 12 to 24 will show off their music, dancing and performing skills at this special Youth Week event.

Wednesday 26 April from 4pm to 6pm. More info.

Hone your public speaking skills at a free workshop

Whether it’s a family wedding, in the workplace or at a public event, the ability to speak in public with confidence is invaluable. But it doesn’t often come naturally.

To help young people build their skills, we’re offering a free public speaking workshop. It’s facilitated by TEDx speakers and is open to anyone aged 16 to 24 who lives, works or visits the City of Sydney local area.

Spots are limited, registration essential.

Thursday 27 April from 5:30pm to 7:30pm.

Gain cooking skills while giving back to the community

We’ve partnered with Kids Giving Back in Paddington to run a 3-hour free cooking class during the Easter school holidays.

Learn to cook a nutritious meal with help from a qualified chef. Once the meals are ready, charity partners will distribute them to young people experiencing homelessness and food scarcity.

If you’re aged 14 to 18 and work, live or visit the City of Sydney area, you’re invited to register for this free event.

Spots are limited, registration essential.

Monday 24 April from 9:30am to 12:30pm

Other events include:

• Youth Week in the City celebration, Wednesday 26 April from 4pm to 6pm
• Manga workshop at the Makerspace, Friday 21 April from 10am to 1pm

Discover more Youth Week events on What’s On.

If you’re organising one of your own, make sure you upload it to the site. It's free and takes minutes to do.