What’s on in Sydney in January 2025

One of my favourite months to be in Sydney, January always sees plenty going in across the city. With summer in full swing and what seems like half of Sydney on holiday, there are events on every day.

Accommodation prices are still at their peak and many attractions are busy. So if you are visiting and keen to do tours and activities on a particular day, it’s worth booking these in advance.

New events and updated content are added to these pages as it becomes available.

Average Temperatures: 25.9 – 18.7 C ( 79.7 – 67.3°F)
While each year varies, the last January was pretty wet with 12 days of rain.

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Major Events in January

• Sydney Festival – 4-26 January 2025
• Flickerfest – 19-28 January 2025
• Australia Day – 26 January 2025
• Year of the Snake Festival

The Sydney Festival kicks off the year with a huge bang with dozens of free and paid events. We don’t have the space to share them all but have added our favourites here. For the full list be sure to visit the festival site.

Sydney Festival

Sydney Festival 2025 will feature over 130 shows and events, including 22 World Premieres, 24 Australian exclusives, 43 locations, and more than 50 free events, such as over 12 nights of live music. With First Nations artists at the forefront and new international works being introduced, this year promises to inspire audiences.

The festival reflects current cultural themes through diverse local and international artists. Notable performances include Dark Noon, which critiques American history, and As You Like It or The Land Acknowledgement, a modern twist on Shakespeare by Cliff Cardinal.

When: 4 January–26 January
Where: Various venues across Sydney
More: Check out the jam-packed program here.

Australia Day

Australia Day, held on 26 January, commemorates the 1788 arrival of the First Fleet of British ships at Port Jackson. Conversely, it is a sad day for indigenous Australians as it marks the day of the white invasion. There are options for commemorating each of these events.

Head to the Harbour to join the Australia Day Regatta will play out on the harbour from 1:30pm – 6pm, and the Wheelchair Race will take place in the Rocks from 9am.

To join the indigenous activities head to the Yabun Festival in Redfern. This festival is the largest one-day gathering and recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures in Australia.

When: 26 January 2025
Where: All over Sydney but the CBD, Rocks and Circular Quay are the centre of the action
More: Check out our guide to Australia Day events here

Squid Game: The Experience

Experience Squid Game: The Experience, where you’ll face the intense challenges you know from the series! Outsmart Young-hee in Red Light Green Light, test your memory on the perilous Memory Steps, and go head-to-head in Marbles.

If you’re skilled and lucky enough, you’ll be crowned the winner! Afterward, explore Squid Game merch and relive the thrill. Ready to play? Secure your tickets now!

When: 14 December 2024 – 2 February 2025 (closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve)
Where: The Immersive Big Top at Luna Park Sydney
Note: Recommended for ages 8+; parental discretion advised, wheelchair accessible

Festivals, Fairs and Community Events

This section will be updated as details are made available.

Musicals, Opera, and Theatre

The Lord of the Rings – A Musical Tale: Australian Premiere

Prepare to journey to Middle-earth™ as The Lord of the Rings – A Musical Tale makes its Australian premiere from 7 January 2025. This stage production, based on J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic trilogy, invites longtime fans and newcomers alike to experience the legendary tale of Hobbits, courage, and camaraderie in a whole new way.

As Frodo Baggins embarks on his perilous quest across Middle-earth to destroy the One Ring, audiences will be transported to the heart of this beloved fantasy, guided by a stellar creative team including Academy Award winner A.R. Rahman and Tony Award winner Christopher Nightingale.

Created under license from Middle-earth Enterprises, this production has already captivated audiences in the UK and the US, with rave reviews calling it “The Greatest Show on Middle-earth” (The Guardian) and “A MUST-SEE SHOW” (Chicago Stage & Screen).

When: From 7 January 2025
Where: State Theatre Sydney

Air Time

Branch Nebula’s latest show, Air Time, brings a thrilling fusion of BMX, skateboarding, dance, and parkour to the Seymour Centre. With intense stunts, powerful rhythms, and a driving electro soundtrack by Phil Downing, the show combines urban street styles with precise choreography. Performers soar and spin across ramps, creating an electrifying experience that captures the raw energy of street art.

Featuring talented artists like skateboarder Austin Gray, dancer Cloé Fournier, and roller skater Tia Pitman, Air Time is a bold celebration of street culture. Co-creators Lee Wilson and Mirabelle Wouters have crafted a dynamic performance that reimagines theatre by pushing the boundaries of street-style artistry.

When: January 7–11, 2025
Where: Everest Theatre, Seymour Centre, Chippendale NSW
Cost: Tickets start from $39 + booking fee

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. After rave reviews in New York and London, this acclaimed staging makes its Australian debut.

With playful choreography, extravagant costumes, and a pop-up storybook set inspired by the original fairy tale illustrations, this production enchants audiences of all ages. Rising star Emily Edmonds, favorite Emma Matthews, and celebrated mezzo-soprano Margaret Plummer lead a cast that brings both heart and humor to Massenet’s beautiful score.

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

The Barber of Seville

When Almaviva falls in love with the beautiful Rosina, he’s determined to win her heart—even though she’s already promised to another. Enter Figaro, the crafty barber, ready with a plan to bring the young lovers together through a series of disguises and tricks.

Rossini’s The Barber of Seville is a lively comedy full of beloved melodies, energy, and humour. The production features a whimsical set inspired by 1920s silent films, with a centrepiece life-sized doll’s house.

Australian baritone Samuel Dale Johnson makes his Opera Australia debut as Figaro, with John Longmuir and Shanul Sharma sharing the role of Count Almaviva, and Serena Malfi and Helen Sherman as Rosina.

When: 18 January – 28 February
Where: Sydney Opera House
Tickets: Available at sydneyoperahouse.com or call (02) 9250 7777

La Traviata

Following sold-out performances in 2024, La Traviata returns to the Sydney Opera House for a special encore season. The story follows Violetta, a celebrated courtesan in Paris, whose encounter with the passionate Alfredo challenges her to break free from her past. But can she escape her life of glamour and heartache?

Verdi’s powerful score, from the lively Brindisi to Violetta’s emotional aria Sempre libera, takes centre stage in this production. Director Sarah Giles brings new depth to Violetta’s inner conflict, while Charles Davis’ set and stunning costumes enhance the emotional complexity of the opera.

This production features two exceptional Violettas, Lorina Gore and Samantha Clarke, both praised for their remarkable performances.

When: 23 January – 27 March
Where: Sydney Opera House
Tickets: Available at sydneyoperahouse.com or call (02) 9250 7777

Peter and the Starcatcher: Australian Premiere

An all-Australian star cast is set to bring the five-time Tony Award-winning Peter and the Starcatcher to life in a reimagined Australian production.

Peter and the Starcatcher is the untold story of Neverland, exploring the origins of Peter Pan, Captain Hook, and Wendy’s mother, Molly. Originally developed by Disney Theatrical Group and written by Rick Elice, with music by Wayne Barker, this new production is directed by acclaimed Australian director David Morton of Dead Puppet Society.

The stellar cast includes Otis Dhanji (Aquaman), Colin Lane (Lano & Woodley), and Olivia Deeble (Home and Away), among other top Australian talent.

When: From 31 January 2025
Where: Capitol Theatre, Sydney

Bluey’s Big Play The Stage Show

Audiences of all ages can enjoy Bluey, Bingo, Bandit, and Chilli like never before, as the Heeler family comes to life on stage through brilliantly crafted puppets and iconic sets.

Based on an original story by Bluey creator Joe Brumm, with music by Joff Bush, this live show is a unique and joyful experience that celebrates everything fans love about the hit series.

When: 2-18 January 2025
Where: Theatre Royal, Sydney
Cost: $54-115 more details

A Model Murder

Step into the Darlinghurst Courthouse for A Model Murder, a thrilling play based on one of Sydney’s most notorious scandals. In 1954, part-time page three girl Shirley Beiger shot her two-timing boyfriend outside Chequers Nightclub. Was she guilty or innocent? You’ll get to decide.

Written by Melanie Tait (The Appleton Ladies’ Potato Race; A Broadcast Coup) and co-written and directed by Sheridan Harbridge (44 Sex Acts in One Week), this immersive production takes place in the very courthouse where Beiger’s trial occurred, recreated exclusively for the Sydney Festival.

When: 4 January–26 January
Where: Darlinghurst Courthouse

Dark Noon

The Wild West comes to Sydney Town Hall with Dark Noon, a Sydney Festival exclusive by Danish visionary Tue Biering. Following a five-star run at New York’s St Ann’s Warehouse, this thrilling production features a talented South African cast that flips Hollywood Western tropes.

With slapstick humor, sharp satire, and stunning stagecraft, Dark Noon reimagines the frontier and immerses audiences in a raw journey through history, tackling themes of power, race, and displacement.

When: 4 January–26 January
Where: Sydney Town Hall

Antigone in the Amazon

Award-winning Swiss director Milo Rau concludes his political trilogy with Antigone in the Amazon, a reimagining of Sophocles’ classic. This powerful performance brings together Brazilian and European actors and musicians to depict the environmental crisis unfolding in the Amazon rainforest.

The play tells the story of one woman’s defiance against the state, transforming into a haunting anthem about the dangers of exploiting both the land and its people.

When: 4 January–26 January
Where: Sydney Theatre

Siegfried & Roy: The Unauthorised Opera at Sydney Festival 2025

Sydney Festival is thrilled to present Siegfried & Roy: The Unauthorised Opera, a captivating chamber opera inspired by the legendary Las Vegas magic duo.

Co-written by composer-librettist Luke Di Somma and director Constantine Costi, this opera chronicles the duo’s rise from poverty in post-war Germany to becoming one of the most successful acts in Las Vegas history. Featuring Australian operatic stars Kanen Breen as Roy and Christopher Tonkin as Siegfried, alongside a talented supporting cast, the production promises to be both entertaining and deeply moving.

When: 8–25 January 2025
Where: Sydney Theatre Company, Wharf 1 Theatre (The Thirsty Mile), Walsh Bay, Sydney
Cost: $49 – $129 + BF

Ghost Quartet

Hayes Theatre Co, in association with Antipodes Theatre Company, presents Ghost Quartet, an Australian premiere production by Dave Malloy, known for Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812. This unique musical weaves four interwoven stories over seven centuries, featuring two sisters, a haunted house, a subway murder, and even the ghost of Thelonious Monk.

The show brings together a cast of actor-musicians in an intense 90-minute journey that explores love, death, and the timeless power of music. With dark, whimsical storytelling, Ghost Quartet offers a surreal, music-filled experience unlike any other.

When: 8 January – 25 January 2025
Where: Hayes Theatre Co, Potts Point, NSW
Cost: Tickets start from $55

Aria

Be part of the world premiere of David Williamson’s newest work, Aria, a darkly comedic exploration of family dynamics and rivalry. Set during Monique’s annual family gathering, the play celebrates her three beloved sons’ birthdays.

However, while Monique’s love for her sons is boundless, her disdain for their wives creates palpable tension. The evening takes an unexpected turn when Monique takes center stage to perform a renowned opera aria, reminding everyone of the dreams she sacrificed to raise her family.

Aria is directed by Janine Watson and features a stellar cast including Tamara Lee Bailey, Rowan Davie, Danielle King, Tracy Mann, Sam O’Sullivan, and Jack Starkey-Gill. This play promises to be a witty and poignant look at the complexities of family life.

When: 24 January – 15 March 2025
Where: Ensemble Theatre, 78 McDougall St, Kirribilli 

Hamlet Camp

Brendan Cowell, Ewen Leslie, and Toby Schmitz—three former Hamlets—take the stage in Hamlet Camp, a world premiere at Carriageworks this. The trio, long-time mates and celebrated Australian actors, explore the legacy of their roles in Shakespeare’s iconic play.

This self-help-style comedy sees them wrestle with their existential demons while offering a hilarious and poignant look at the toll the role of Hamlet has taken on them. Expect poetry, soliloquies, and some surprise musical moments, all wrapped up in an intimate, provocative, and entertaining evening.

When: 14-25 January 2025
Where: Carriageworks, 245 Wilson St, Eveleigh
Cost: Standard: $60 + BF, Previews: $40 + BF, Concessions available

Jacky

A Melbourne Theatre Company production, co-presented with Sydney Festival, Jacky tells the story of a sharp, enterprising young blackfella who has successfully navigated life in Melbourne.

Jacky moves seamlessly between different worlds, from office internships to cultural performances, even sex work to pay the bills. But when his wayward brother Keith arrives, Jacky’s carefully constructed life begins to unravel.

This award-winning play, written by Declan Furber Gillick and directed by Mark Wilson, is a witty, contemporary exploration of private life, work life, and culture. After its acclaimed premiere season in Melbourne, Jacky is coming to Belvoir with performances from Guy Simon and Greg Stone.

When: 16 Jan – 2 Feb 2025
Where: Belvoir Theatre, Belvoir Street Surry Hills 

Outdoor Cinema & Film Festivals

Flickerfest

Flickerfest is an Academy® Accredited and BAFTA-recognised International Short Film. Films of 35 minutes or less and completed in the last two years are eligible for entry.

This year is the festival’s 32st anniversary and will feature 25 films shown in the Spiegeltent tent on the North Park lawn at Bondi Beach. The festival will tour Australia from February to October.

Where: Bondi Beach
When: Feb- October
More: check the website for program details.

Westpac Open Air Cinema

Billed as the most beautiful cinema in the world, the Westpac Open Air Cinema shows both the latest flicks as well as classics with the beautiful Sydney Harbour at its back.

Where: Mrs Macquaries Point
When: 9 January – 18 February 2025
Cost: $36 – More: Full schedule

See the full list of Sydney’s outdoor cinemas here

Art & Exhibitions

PRIMAVERA: Young Australian Artists

Primavera 2024: Young Australian Artists has opened at the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia (MCA), showcasing works by five emerging artists: Teresa Busuttil, Chun Yin Rainbow Chan, Aidan Hartshorn, Monica Rani Rudhar, and Sarah Ujmaia. Curated by Lucy Latella, the exhibition explores cultural connection amid social and political challenges, with each artist drawing on personal and family histories.

The diverse works presented highlight the evolving nature of cultural identity. Now in its 33rd year, Primavera remains a significant platform for early-career Australian artists.

When: Daily from 10am – 5pm until 27 January 2025
Where: Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, Level 2 Galleries
Cost: Free.

Nikon-Walkley Press Photography Competition

This exhibition of Australian Photojournalism showcases the winners and finalists of the 2024 Walkley Awards for Excellence in Journalism, including the Nikon Photo and Portrait of the Year. There are 30 categories of photography, featuring people from all walks of life and places across the globe.

Where: State Library of New South Wales
When: Daily until January 24. Open from 9am on weekdays and 10am on weekends.
Cost: Free.

James Cameron – Challenging the Deep

Dive into the world of ocean exploration with James Cameron – Challenging the Deep, on display at the Australian National Maritime Museum. This immersive exhibit traces Cameron’s groundbreaking work in deep-sea science and technology, including his historic dive to the ocean’s depths in the Deepsea Challenger submersible.

Through large projections, rare artifacts, and deep-sea specimens, the exhibit offers a fascinating view into underwater mysteries, including shipwrecks like the Titanic and Bismarck. Explore original film props, costumes, and innovative technologies Cameron pioneered for exploration and filmmaking, such as those used in The Abyss and Titanic.

When: September 28, 2024 – February 2, 2025
Where: Australian National Maritime Museum
Cost: Adult $25, Family $70, Concession $20, Child $15

Explore the Wonders of Machu Picchu at the Australian Museum

This summer, Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru at the Australian Museum offers a journey through 3,000 years of ancient Peruvian culture. Presented by Peru’s Museo Larco and Museo de Sito Manuel Chavez Ballon in partnership with Neon Global, the exhibit showcases 134 remarkable artifacts—golden treasures, intricate jewelry, ceremonial masks, and sacred objects.

Don’t miss the Machu Picchu and the Spirit of the Condor VR experience, which provides a thrilling aerial view of Machu Picchu and tells the story of Emperor Pachacuti.

When: On now until 23 February 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

James Nguyen and Guadalupe Maravilla

Artist to Artist is a series of engaging conversations between local and international contemporary artists, offering new perspectives on global cultures. Held in the intimate setting of the Utzon Room, brings together interdisciplinary artists who work across language, objects, sound, poetics, and design.

In this session, Australian-Vietnamese artist James Nguyen and American-El Salvadorian Guadalupe Maravilla explore how ancestral knowledge can aid in healing trauma. Maravilla uses political performances and sound baths to address intergenerational trauma and migration, while Nguyen’s work, often in collaboration with family, reflects the Australian-Vietnamese migrant experience.

When: Monday, 27 January 2025, 6:30pm
Where: Utzon Room, Sydney Opera House
Cost: $20-25

Music & Comedy

Penn & Teller: 50th Anniversary World Tour

Legendary magicians Penn & Teller are kicking off their 50th anniversary world tour in Australia with a week of mesmerizing performances at the Sydney Opera House.

Celebrating five decades of redefining magic, Penn & Teller will bring their extraordinary mix of mind-blowing illusions and sharp comedy to the iconic Concert Hall stage. Known for their innovative tricks and boundary-pushing performances, the duo has captivated audiences worldwide, from their long-running Las Vegas show to hit TV series like Penn & Teller: Fool Us.

When: 11 – 18 January 2025
Where: Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House
Cost: From $79 + $8.95 booking fee.

All You Need Is Love

Australia’s iconic Beatles concert event, All You Need Is Love, returns to the Sydney Opera House this January, showcasing 30 Beatles classics in a thrilling rock and symphony experience. Featuring vocalists Jack Jones, Ciaran Gribbin, Rai Thistlethwayte, and Jackson Thomas, the show brings together their voices with the 35-piece Strawberry Fields Rock Orchestra and The Day Tripper Band.

Produced by Phil Bathols and Tim Woods, this is no ordinary tribute – it’s a powerful, orchestral celebration of the Beatles’ musical legacy. With over 40 musicians and vocalists on stage, All You Need Is Love promises an unforgettable live experience.

When: Wed, 1 January 2025 – 8pm & Thurs., 2 January 1pm
Where: Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House
Tickets at sydneyoperahouse.com or call (02) 9250 7777.

The Teskey Brothers 

Get ready for a spectacular evening with The Teskey Brothers, recipients of five ARIA Awards, as they perform exclusively in the open air. This unique event, set against the scenic backdrop of Centennial Vineyards, promises an exceptional music experience featuring a curated lineup of both international and Australian talent.

Joining them are the acclaimed US indie rockers, Band of Horses, alongside the Americana and folk charms of Sierra Ferrell. Don’t miss the Australian debut of Ireland’s rising country music star CMAT, and the distinctive sounds of Australian multi-instrumentalist Charlie Needs Braces. This eclectic mix guarantees a remarkable night of live music in the heart of the Highlands!

When: Sunday, 12th January 2025
Where: Centennial Vineyards, Bowral

Rolaskatox Reunited Tour

Experience the world premiere of the Rolaskatox Reunited Tour as the iconic drag trio Roxxxy Andrews, Detox, and Alaska bring their dazzling show down under! This one-of-a-kind tour offers a full production like no other, featuring powerhouse performances and unforgettable moments. Join Roxxxy Andrews on her first trip to Australia, and witness the magic of Detox and superstar Alaska live on stage.

For an exclusive experience, snag a VIP Meet & Greet Package, which includes general admission to the show, an exclusive pre-show meet and greet with Roxxxy, Alaska, and Detox, plus a professional photo to download after the event. VIPs will also receive a limited-edition commemorative lanyard, early venue access for prime viewing spots, and first access to Rolaskatox merchandise.

When: 18 January 2025, 6pm – 11pm
Where: UNSW Roundhouse, International Rd, Kensington
Cost: General admission $83.77 and VIP options $134.66

Leon Bridges – The Leon Tour

Experience an enchanting evening in the Southern Highlands as Leon Bridges graces us with his velvety R&B tones. Imagine his rich voice echoing across the landscape as the sun descends, creating a magical ambiance. The Grammy Award-winning artist will make his Australian return in January 2025 with exclusive performances as part of a day on the green.

Expect to be serenaded by beloved classics such as “River,” “Coming Home,” and “Beyond,” alongside fresh tracks from his newest album, Leon. This promises to be a night of soulful melodies in a stunning outdoor setting, where each sound captures the heart and imagination beneath a starry sky.

When: Sunday, 19th January 2025
Where: Centennial Vineyards, Bowral

Gillian Welch and David Rawlings

Nashville icons Gillian Welch and David Rawlings are set to make their highly anticipated Sydney Opera House debut, celebrating their acclaimed new album Woodland with two intimate performances.

Known for their rich Americana sound and evocative storytelling, the Grammy-winning duo bring to life folk and bluegrass traditions with a modern twist. Woodland, inspired by the resilience of their Nashville studio nearly lost to tornadoes, has been hailed by The Guardian with five-star reviews, calling it a testament to their enduring artistry.

When: Friday 24 and Saturday 25 January 2025, 8pm
Where: Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House
Tickets: From $109 + booking fee

Sports and Outdoors

United CUp

Experience the excitement of mixed team tennis as the United Cup returns to Perth and Sydney from Friday, 27 December to Sunday, 5 January 2025.

This thrilling event will bring together the world’s top-ranked tennis players, competing for a share of over US$10 million in prize money and crucial ranking points.

The tournament kicks off with Perth hosting the opening matches at RAC Arena, followed by the group stage at Sydney’s Ken Rosewall Arena. Featuring eighteen countries with up to three men and women each, teams will battle it out for a spot in the quarterfinals and ultimately, the Sydney-hosted semifinals and final.

When: 28 December – 5 January 2025
Where: Ken Rosewall Arena, Sydney 

CommBank Women’s Ashes T20 International series

Australia’s dominant women’s cricket team is eager to defend their Ashes title as the thrilling multi-format series kicks off with the One Day International matches. Witness cricket history in the making as these remarkable athletes take the field!

Join us to cheer on the team and experience top-tier sportsmanship and skill firsthand. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this incredible event.

When: 12 January 2025, 10:30 am
Where: North Sydney Oval

Yoga Under the Bridge

Free yoga sessions are open to the public (and not just early birds) at 9:30am Sunday until January 21st. Note however, that you will need to book tickets in advance and bring your own mat and towel.

Where: Dawes Point Park, Sydney
When: Weekends from 10am – 5pm until Sunday January 14th
Cost: Free. Find more information and book tickets, here.

Cockle Bay Paddle Boats

Get ready for a fun water adventure at Cockle Bay this summer! Rent a pedal boat for up to two adults and two kids to explore and enjoy the scenic views of the harbour city. It’s perfect for a date, a friendly get-together, or a family race. After pedalling, relax at nearby spots for food and drinks, celebrating the festive Christmas spirit at Cockle Bay.

Where: Cockle Bay, Darling Harbour
Cost: $45 per boat for 30 minutes

Regional Events in NSW January 2025

If you are road tripping this month, put these festivals on your radar.

• Elvis Festival Parkes – 8-12 January 2025
• Tamworth Country Music Festival: 17-26 January 2025
• Guyra Lamb & Potato Festival: TBC 2025

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