December in Sydney signals the start of Summer. Days are long and warm with perfect swimming weather. Afternoon storms are not uncommon, and while you might see more rainy days than you would like, it’s not cold, and rain rarely falls for more than a couple of hours.
Restaurants and bars are busy with Christmas celebrations and the latter half of the month sees the beginning of the 6-week summer school holidays, making shopping centres and attractions much busier.
Accommodation prices normally skyrocket from about 20 Dec. right through until at least 3 January because of the number of people arriving to see the NYE Fireworks spectacular.
Average Temperatures: 25.8 – 18.6°C (64-79°F) While each year varies the last December saw eleven days of rain.
If you are looking for Christmas lunch or dinner ideas, check our list of Christmas Day dining.
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Major December Events in Sydney
We have listed general things on our What’s to Do in December page. For more, check out our list of Christmas markets and Christmas events in Sydney this year.
Need ideas for how to get in the festive spirit? We have a list of the best Christmas events across Sydney here.
- List of Christmas markets in Sydney
- Sydney To Hobart Yacht Race – 26 December
- NYE in Sydney – 31 December
- Christmas festivals, concerts and more – across December
Markets, Fairs and Community Festivals
Blak Markets
If you are looking for authentic, unique gifts, check out the Blak Markets. A huge range of affordable Aboriginal art, jewellery, homewares and beauty products.
The markets support the local aboriginal people with 100% of the profits going back into the community. There will also be Indigenous-inspired food and drinks on offer.
Where: Tallawoladah Lawn in The Rocks Precinct
When: 17 December from 10am to 4pm
Cost: Free – more details on their FB Page
South Eveleigh’s Urban Summer Club
South Eveleigh’s Urban Summer Club is bringing a beachy, festive vibe to this inner city precinct. The program promises fun and relaxation for workers and visitors with activities, treats, and giveaways.
Daily treats, such as mini pavlovas and fresh coconuts, will be available at the Mini Kiosk, while the Summer Club Kiosk offers premium summer merch for early spenders.
Check out the line up of fun:
- Blow-Up Volleyball Court – Team games and a chance to win a $1K Flight Centre voucher.
- Wave Rider – Mechanical Surfboard -Test your balance on mechanical waves.
- Surf Santa – Meet and snap photos with Santa in beachwear.
- Surf Patrol – Meet and take photos with lifeguard mascots.
- Sandy Clause Photo Booth – Awkward family/team photo fun at a quirky Santa set.
- Sponge Pool – Chill in a foam pool without sand or water mess.
- Summer Club Chill Zone – Relax with beach chairs, umbrellas, and interactive games.
- Summer Club Saturdays – Includes face painting, balloon artistry, live DJ, and special act
When: Monday, December 2 – Sunday, December 15, 2024
Where: South Eveleigh, Innovation Plaza, and surrounding precinct areas.
JAPAN EXPO 2024
Get ready for the 4th annual Japan Expo and immerse yourself in Japanese culture with over 40 exhibitors showcasing the best of Japan’s food, tourism, products, and more.
Enjoy cultural demonstrations, interactive workshops, and special events like the International Kimono competition, sake tastings, and a Taiko drum performance.
Date: Saturday, 14 December 2024
Where: Sydney Town Hall
Get Tickets: $27.78 from Eventbrite
Carriageworks December Markets
Get into the festive spirit at Carriageworks this December with two must-visit markets celebrating local produce and holiday cheer.
The Summer Seasonal Market, on 7 December, will feature over 60 stalls offering fresh produce like cherries, watermelons, oysters, and farm-fresh eggs. Enjoy live cooking demos from experts such as Nadine Ingram of Flour and Stone, Tommy Prosser from Crustacean Nation, and Darran Baker from Demoiselle Distillery, sharing tips for your festive feasts.
Then, celebrate the Christmas season at the Carriageworks Christmas Market on 21 December. With over 100 stalls, you’ll find everything from perfect holiday gifts to specialty ingredients for your Christmas menu. Enjoy festive tunes, family-friendly entertainment, and delicious food from vendors like AP Bakery, Crustacean Nation, and Maru Okonomiyaki.
When: Saturday 7 December & Saturday 21 December 2024
Where: Carriageworks, 245 Wilson Street, Eveleigh
Cost: Free admission
Musicals, Opera, and Theatre in Sydney in December
Cinderella
A dejected daughter, a prince in search of love, and a magical night—you know the tale, but you haven’t seen it quite like this. Laurent Pelly’s enchanting production of Cinderella brings Massenet’s classic opera to life with humor, whimsy, and visual delight.
Performed in English, Cinderella is perfect for opera newcomers, and a delightful treat for seasoned fans. Step into a world of fairy-tale magic, and enjoy 90 minutes of joy and wonder. Dust off your glass slippers—maybe dreams really do come true.
When: 2 January – 14 March
Where: Sydney Opera House
Tickets: Book tickets online or call (02) 9250 7777
Jesus Christ SUperstar
Jesus Christ Superstar the celebrated rock musical by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber has captivated audiences with its powerful exploration of the final weeks of Jesus Christ’s life through the eyes of Judas, all set against a rock-infused score that has become legendary.
Lead Cast:
- Michael Paynter as Jesus: An international recording artist and member of the iconic Australian band Icehouse, known for his dynamic stage presence.
- Javon King as Judas: A versatile performer who wowed audiences in the Australian tour of Hairspray and brings depth to the role of Judas.
- Mahalia Barnes as Mary: A powerhouse soul and blues vocalist making her stage debut, celebrated for her performances with The Soul Mates and collaborations with top artists.
Producer John Frost has praised the cast for their extraordinary talent, highlighting their ability to bring fresh energy and emotion to the iconic songs such as “Heaven On Their Minds,” “What’s the Buzz,” and “I Don’t Know How To Love Him.”
When: From 6 November 2024
Where: Capitol Theatre, Sydney
Cost: From $69.90 (Transaction fees apply)
Elf
Join Buddy, played by Gareth Isaac (Grease the Musical, Mary Poppins), as he embarks on his hilarious journey from the North Pole to New York City in search of his birth family.
The stellar cast also includes Simon Burke (Wicked, Moulin Rouge!), Brianna Bishop (Grease the Musical, The Deb), Lara Mulcahy (Mamma Mia!), Katrina Retallick (Come From Away), and many more bringing the beloved characters to life.
Directed by Eric Giancola and with a 15-strong on-stage band, Elf: The Musical promises to capture the magic and mischief of the holiday season, reminding us that a little kindness is the greatest gift of all.
When: 19-29 December, 2024
Where: Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House
Tickets: From $75 + booking fee, available via the Sydney Opera House website
DUNGEONS & DRAGONS The Twenty-Sided Tavern
Dungeons & Dragons The Twenty-Sided Tavern is making its Australasian premiere at the Sydney Opera House this December. This unique, interactive theatrical experience brings the world of Dungeons & Dragons to life, allowing you to control the story, choose characters, and shape the adventure in real-time.
With over 30 playable characters and countless ways for the story to unfold, each performance offers a new and immersive journey. The Twenty-Sided Tavern invites both novices and fans to join the adventure, testing their skills through combat, puzzles, and games in an ever-changing fantasy world.
When: From 15 December 2024
Where: Studio, Sydney Opera House
Cost: From $79 + $8.95 booking fee
The Holiday in Concert with Live Orchestra
Get into the festive spirit early with The Holiday in Concert with Live Orchestra, a magical film-to-live orchestra experience touring Australia this Christmas.
Originally released in 2006, The Holiday tells the heartwarming story of Iris (Kate Winslet) and Amanda (Cameron Diaz), two women who swap homes over the holiday season to escape their love troubles. With a star-studded cast, including Jude Law and Jack Black, and a beautiful score by Hans Zimmer, this film has become a Christmas classic.
When: 14 December 2024
Where: ICC Darling Harbour
Cost: Visit theholidayinconcert.com for details.
CLUB BRIEFS: The Works
Experience CLUB BRIEFS: The Works at The Famous Spiegeltent, Carriageworks. This bold and dynamic show blends burlesque, circus, and drag in an unforgettable spectacle of acrobatics, sexy stunts, and outrageous comedy.
Hosted by MC Fez Faanana, the talented lineup includes Captain Kidd, Rowan Thomas, Nastia, and Benjamin Butterfly, with new superstar guest performers each week. Week 1 kicks off with Rhys Lightning, followed by Diesel Darling in Week 2 and Betty Grumble’s wild finale. With an electrifying soundtrack and jaw-dropping acts, this risqué celebration of queer talent is not to be missed!
When: 27 Nov – 15 Dec 2024
Where: The Famous Spiegeltent, Carriageworks, 245 Wilson St, Eveleigh
Cost: From $65 (booking fee applies) Recommended for ages 18+
Comedy, Music and Dance
The Heartbreak Choir
Ensemble Theatre is excited to present The Heartbreak Choir, a heartfelt love song to community, friendship, and the healing power of music, written by Aidan Fennessy.
Join audience favourites Valerie Bader, Nancy Denis, and Jay Laga’aia, along with director Anna Ledwich, for a story about misfits, redemption, and finding your voice through song. When a local choir faces a split, a group of outcasts rebrand and prepare for their debut performance at the town winery. Will they find the perfect song to bring the house down?
“It’s a celebration of the human voice, friendship, healing, and laughter. Prepare to be embraced.” – Director, Anna Ledwich
Where: 29th November 2024 – 12th January 2025
Where: Ensemble Theatre, 78 McDougall Street, Kirribilli
Tickets: $25-$88 ensemble.com.au
New Breed
Sydney Dance Company’s New Breed returns to spotlight fresh talent with world premieres by choreographers Amber McCartney, Dean Elliott, Piran Scott, and Siobhan McKenna. Supported by The Balnaves Foundation, this series celebrates rising stars in Australian dance, with new works performed by Sydney Dance Company members.
Now in its tenth year, New Breed offers a rare platform for emerging choreographers to collaborate with Australia’s leading contemporary dance company, resulting in bold and innovative performances. Experience the creativity and talent shaping the future of contemporary dance.
When: December 4–14, 2024
Where: Carriageworks
Cost: Adult: $55–$59, Con. (Student, Senior, Unemployed): $53–$57 Under 30: $47
Dream Circus
Prepare for an extraordinary journey like no other! Dream Circus offers a unique blend of immersive technologies, including 360-degree projection, mind-bending audio, and mesmerising holograms that will leave you in awe.
Created by Sydney’s most talented creatives, Dream Circus is a whimsical world where the only rule is that there are no rules! This captivating experience transcends generations and adds a touch of wonder to your visit to Luna Park Sydney.
Don’t miss the chance to be one of the first to step into the enchanting world of Dream Circus. Get ready for a fantastical adventure that will challenge your perception of reality!
When: From 21 December – 30 January
Where: Luna Park Milsons Point
Cost: $35 kids $45 adults
MEL BUTTLE & NATHAN VALVO – LIVE
Riverside Theatres is excited to present an unforgettable evening of laughs, with two of Australia’s comedy powerhouses, Mel Buttle and Nath Valvo, as they team up for one-night-only.
This hilarious double feature promises side-splitting laughter, quick-witted banter, and unforgettable moments that will leave audiences wanting more. Joining forces for one-night only, audiences can expect a high-energy evening that promises to leave them with smiles that last long after the curtains close.
When: 7:30pm Friday 13th December 2024
Where: Riverside Theatre, Corner Church & Market St, Parramatta
Tickets: From $39 – Book direct
Candlelight: Best of Bridgerton on Strings
Dearest Reader, Lady Whistledown has already given her verdict: the event of the season is here! Join us for a magical live music performance with Candlelight: Best of Bridgerton on Strings in Sydney.
Surrounded by the soft glow of candlelight, listen to your favourite melodies from Shondaland’s ‘Bridgerton’ series on Netflix, reimagined by a talented string ensemble. Ready to make amazing memories? Get your tickets today!
When: 7 & 20 December
Where: St Stephen’s Uniting Church Macquarie Street Sydney
Tickets: $49-120
Squid Game: The Experience
Step into the world of Squid Game: The Experience in Sydney! Test your survival skills in a series of high-stakes challenges inspired by the hit Netflix series. Compete in iconic games like Red Light, Green Light, Memory Steps, and the Marbles game.
Experience recreated sets and immersive gameplay, where you’ll go head-to-head with other contestants over 45 minutes for a chance to win an exclusive ‘money can’t buy’ coin. This first-of-its-kind immersive event in Australia will have you feeling like you’re part of the action, with physical and strategic challenges at every turn. Don’t miss your chance to step into the Squid Game universe!
When: 14 Dec- 2 February, 2025 (closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve)
Where: The Immersive Big Top, Luna Park Sydney
Art and Exhibitions
James Cameron – Challenging the Deep
Step into the depths with James Cameron – Challenging the Deep at the Australian National Maritime Museum. This immersive exhibition delves into Cameron’s revolutionary advancements in deep-sea exploration, including his record-breaking DEEPSEA CHALLENGER dive.
Featuring cinema-scale projections, rare artifacts, and remarkable specimens from Cameron’s expeditions, the exhibit reveals the hidden wonders of the ocean, from famous shipwrecks like the Titanic and Bismarck to the advanced technology behind his explorations. See original film props, costumes, and equipment developed for iconic movies like The Abyss and Titanic, showcasing how Cameron’s passion and innovation transformed both oceanography and filmmaking.
When: September 28, 2024 – February 2, 2025
Where: Australian National Maritime Museum
Cost: Adult $25, Family $70, Concession $20, Child $15
Discover the Treasures of Machu Picchu
The Australian Museum’s summer exhibition, Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru, brings over 3,000 years of Peruvian history to life.
Created by Peru’s Museo Larco and Museo de Sito Manuel Chavez Ballon in collaboration with Neon Global, this immersive experience features 134 rare artifacts, including golden treasures from royal tombs, intricate jewels, masks, and ancient objects of worship.
A highlight is the Machu Picchu and the Spirit of the Condor VR experience, offering a breathtaking bird’s-eye journey through the iconic Inca city and an introduction to the life of Emperor Pachacuti.
When: On now until 23 Feb 2025
Where: Australian Museum, 1 William St, Sydney NSW 2000
Tickets: Off peak: Adult $37.50, Child $20, Family $94; Peak: Adult $42.50, Child $23.50, Family $110; VR: $22 buy tickets here
Magritte
Experience Australia’s first retrospective of surrealist master René Magritte, exclusive to Sydney. This landmark exhibition features more than 100 works, most never before seen in Australia, from the artist’s early avant-garde pieces to his most iconic surrealist paintings.
Journey through Magritte’s artistic evolution, encountering his familiar motifs of clouds, hats, pipes and apples rendered in his distinctive, deadpan realist style.
When: Until 9 Feb, Daily 10am to 5pm, except Wednesdays, 10am to 10pm
Where: Art Gallery of NSW, Art Gallery Road, Sydney
Cost: $35 – Art After Hours: 2-for-1 tickets every Wednesday night, 5pm–10pm
Eora by Michael Riley
Step into a powerful digital journey at the Museum of Sydney with this compelling three-screen installation by acclaimed Wiradjuri/Kamilaroi filmmaker Michael Riley. This masterful work weaves together archival imagery, natural landscapes, and contemporary First Nations art, accompanied by an immersive soundscape featuring local First Nations voices.
Recently digitized, this landmark piece celebrates First Nations resilience, cultures, and beauty through a mesmerizing 20-minute experience. Originally commissioned for the museum’s 1995 opening, it returns as we approach the Museum of Sydney’s 30th anniversary celebration.
When: From December 7 (closed Christmas Day) 10am-5pm daily
Where: Museum of Sydney
Cost: Free entry
ao Fei: My City is Yours 曹斐: 欢迎登陆
Experience the largest Australian exhibition of one of the world’s most influential contemporary artists. Through thrilling films, photography and large-scale installations, Cao Fei captures the pulse of China’s rapid urbanisation and digital revolution.
Enter through a 1960s Beijing cinema foyer into a cityscape designed by the artist and Beau Architects of Hong Kong, where neon lights, street dance, and pop music collide with virtual worlds and urban transformation. The exhibition includes two new commissions and concludes with a homage to a beloved Sydney yum cha restaurant.
When: Until 9 Feb, Daily 10am to 5pm, except Wednesdays, 10am to 10pm
Where: Art Gallery of NSW, Art Gallery Road, Sydney
Cost: $35 – Art After Hours: 2-for-1 tickets every Wednesday night, 5pm–10pm
Primavera 2024: Young Australian Artists
Primavera 2024: Young Australian Artists has opened at the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia (MCA). Curated by Lucy Latella, this year’s exhibition focuses on cultural connection in the face of social and political challenges, with five emerging artists drawing on their personal and family histories to explore evolving cultural identities. The exhibition remains a significant platform for early-career Australian artists.
Featured Artists:
- Teresa Busuttil – Explores her Maltese-Australian heritage through found objects and contemporary interpretations of kitsch.
- Chun Yin Rainbow Chan – Revitalizes women’s folk songs from Hong Kong’s Weitou people, blending cultural memory with modern media.
- Aidan Hartshorn – Creates cultural objects addressing the impact of industrialization on his Walgalu and Wiradjuri ancestral lands.
- Monica Rani Rudhar – Navigates cultural disconnection through autobiographical sculptures and video, drawing on her Indian and Romanian heritage.
- Sarah Ujmaia – Examines forced displacement and language loss through material-led, experimental works inspired by her Chaldean background.
When: 30 August 2024 – 27 January 2025
Where: Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, Level 2 Galleries
Cost: Free
Beauty Rich and Rare
Journey back to 1770 through an immersive 180-degree visual spectacular showcasing Australia’s unique flora and fauna. This stunning digital artwork brings to life Sir Joseph Banks’ historic collection from the HMB Endeavour voyage, transforming scientific documentation into a mesmerizing artistic experience.
Watch as maps, journals, and historical documents come alive in this 20-minute presentation, following Banks and his team from Botany Bay to Australia’s far north. This AGB Creative production, commissioned by the National Library of Australia, captures the wonder of early scientific discovery.
When: From December 7 (closed Christmas Day)
Where: Museum of Sydney
Cost: Free entry
Food and Drinks
Luna Lu’s Dumpling Masterclass
Luna Lu’s Dumpling Masterclass is the perfect way to welcome spring in Sydney. With its prime location at The Rocks and gorgeous views of Sydney Harbour, this 90-minute class will have you mastering the art of dumpling-making in no time.
Guided by Luna Lu’s resident chef, you’ll prepare two delicious dumplings, including a vegan option, and enjoy a glass of sparkling wine on arrival. Open to all skill levels, it’s a fun way to spend your Sunday with family or friends.
When: Sunday 29 December, 4pm- 6pm
Where: Luna Lu, 7-27 Circular Quay West, The Rocks
Cost: $100 adults, $55 children (plus booking fee)
Bottega Coco Pasta Making Class
Join Italian chef Pier Davide Maiuri, renowned for his work in Top 10 world-rated and Michelin Star restaurants, for a culinary adventure you won’t forget. In this masterclass, Executive Chef Dario Nencioni will guide you through crafting exquisite Italian dishes, from veal pappardelle ragu with crushed pistachio and parmesan to an authentic buffalo margarita pizza recipe from Italy’s southern coast.
After cooking, you’ll enjoy a shared banquet of your delicious creations.
When: Sunday 17th December, 4pm
Where: Bottega Coco – Shop 1 T3.01/300 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo
Cost: $118 per person, book here
Events in Regional NSW
Cherry Harvest Season in Mudgee
Fresh cherries are an essential part of an Aussie Christmas, so why not create a new Christmas tradition in your family and make heading bush and picking your own fruit part of your Christmas experience?
Where: Roth Family Orchard, 108 Eurunderee Lane, Mudgee
When: 1-21 Dec.
More: details here Bookings from late October.
Southern Highlands Food and Wine Festival
Immerse yourself in the Southern Highlands Food & Wine Festival set in the picturesque Corbett Gardens. As the historic locale comes alive with festive lights, indulge in an eclectic mix of soulful music ranging from jazz and funk to bossa nova.
This event promises a showcase of the region’s best wines, with over 60 vineyards presenting their finest cool-climate varieties. From crisp chardonnay and zesty sauvignon blanc to the aromatic Riesling and lush pinot gris, every tasting is an invitation to fall in love with the Highlands anew. Perfect for connoisseurs and families, this festival is a journey of unforgettable flavours and sounds.
When: 9-10 December Friday 5pm-10pm, Sat 11am-10pm, Sunday 11am-4pm – Sunday Where: Corbett Gardens, Bendooley Street Bowral
Cost: Adults 18+ $30 includes a tasting glass for free sampling 13-17 years old $10
Plan ahead
There is lots happening across Sydney over the summer so get a head start with these pages.
- What’s on in January in Sydney
- Sydney in February
- Christmas Events
- School holidays in Sydney
- Get out on the harbour this summer.
Have questions about things to see and do in Sydney?
Head over and join our Facebook Group and we will be happy to help.
