Festivals and events

Sydney festivals and events

If you are looking for a list of festivals in Sydney you have come to the right place. We have listed all the major festivals across the city below.

Sydney loves a festival and there are several that should be on your radar if you are visiting or living in Sydney.

The major annual Sydney festivals are:

  • Sydney Festival (January)
  • Chinese New Year Festival (late January/February)
  • Biennale of Sydney (March to June)
  • Mardi Gras (March)
  • Royal Easter Show (Easter)
  • Sydney Comedy Festival (April)
  • Sydney Writers Festival (May)
  • Sydney Film Festival (June)
  • Yulefest in the Blue Mountains (June/July)
  • City to Surf (August)
  • Sydney Fringe Festival (September)
  • Festival of the Winds (September)
  • Sydney Running Festival (September)
  • Good Food Month (October)
  • Sculpture by the Sea (Oct/Nov)
  • Sydney to Hobart (Dec 26)
  • New Years Eve

I think the highlights for visitors are:

  • The Free Domain concerts held during the Sydney Festival (especially Jazz in the Park and Symphony in the Park) – These shows are amazing, 80,000 people pack their picnic baskets to listen to the Sydney Symphony or the best jazz musicians in Australia and beyond entertain for free.
  • The Dragon Boat Races at Darling Harbour during Chinese New Year – Chinese New Year is a popular event on the Sydney calendar and the biggest dragon boat race in the southern hemisphere is one of the key events.  After the races head to Chinatown for some excellent Yum Cha (dim sum).
  • The fabulous Mardi Gras Parade in early March–Now in its 45th year, the parade is the highlight of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Festival.
  • Vivid Sydney, which sees the Sydney Opera House and other prominent Sydney buildings bathed in light. I love vivid; I took the photo above last week when I snapped away like a tourist at the amazing colours and designs. The Rocks, The Harbour and several historic buildings feature. Check out our tips for enjoying your visit to Vivid Sydney.
  • Good Food Month in October with its night food markets, talks, fine dining special prices and more.
It’s worth noting these festivals when planning your visit to Sydney, as accommodation availability can get tight and prices certainly rise. Booking early if you are planning a visit during these times is a very good idea.

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