At the beginning of winter, shorter days and colder nights, but we still get blue skies and sunny days. What used to be the quietest month of the year has, over the last decade, become a pretty busy time in the city thanks to the Vivid Sydney Festival.

Vivid runs for the first two weeks of June and Circular Quay, The Rocks, Darling Harbour, and the Botanic Gardens turned into a wonderland of light installations.

Average Temperatures: 18-10 °C (64-50°F)
While each year varies the last June saw 8 days of rain.

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Major June Events in Sydney

It is cool outside but that won’t keep Sydneysiders indoors. Vivid Sydney is one of the biggest annual events in the city and the whale watching season sees hundreds of us board boats every weekend to catch a glimpse of the whales making their way north for the summer.

• Vivid Sydney: 24 May – 15 June 2024
• Sydney Film Festival: 5-14 June 2024
• Whale Watching season begins
• Pride Month: 1-30 June 2024

Festivals, Fairs and Markets

Cronulla Jazz and Blues Festival

Eleven stages, over 100 artists, and everything from Jazz, Blues, Funk Soul, Alt-Country & Americana. Head to Dunningham Park, Monro Park, street buskers, or one of the ticketed performances at local venues.

When: 29 May – 2 June 2024
Where: Cronulla Street Cronulla l Cost: Most events are free
More: Check the official website for the schedule.

Bondi Festival Ice Rink

Nothing says winter in Sydney like taking the family for a skate on the world-famous Bondi Festival Ice Rink. ice skates of all sizes and push-along penguins for the little ones, so shimmy into some skates and glide across the ice (or shuffle if you’re a first-timer) – all whilst enjoying the best view in town.

When: 30 June -21 July 2024
Where: Bondi Beach NSW
Tickets: $15 – 27, check their website for more details.

The Coal Loader Artisans Market

“Meet the Makers” at one of Sydney’s best artisans markets at the fabulous Coal Loader. The market offers you an opportunity to purchase original and creative handmade products directly from emerging and contemporary designers, artists, and makers.

Stalls display and sell art, ceramics, basketry, eco products, fashion, jewelry, textiles, food, children’s design, and much more.

Where: The Coal Loader Centre for Sustainability 2 Balls Head Drive, Waverton
When: 9am-3pm, 2 June 2024 l Cost: Free

Markers and Shakers Market

130 stalls of handmade local product, I love everything about the Makers and Shakers concept. High-quality goods crafted with care and meticulous attention to detail. The markets foster a movement away from mass-produced products, championing the preservation of traditional skills and crafts.

By supporting local artisans and small businesses, you can contribute to a sustainable future through mindful consumption.

When: 10am-4pm, 1 & 2 June 2024 l Cost: $5
Where: White Bay Cruise Terminal – James Craig Road Rozelle

Musicals, Opera and theatre in Sydney in June

Chicago

“Chicago,” sets the stage in the roaring twenties with the story of Roxie Hart, a housewife and nightclub dancer who murders her lover and transforms her malicious crime into sensational headlines.

Zoë Ventoura, beloved for her roles in “Packed To The Rafters” and “Home and Away,” returns to musical theatre as Velma Kelly. She’s joined by Lucy Maunder, currently Mrs. Banks in “Mary Poppins,” as Roxie Hart.

Anthony Warlow, renowned for his Broadway and Australian roles, will play lawyer Billy Flynn. Comedy icon Peter Rowsthorn is cast as Amos, Roxie’s husband.

When: From 9 June 2024
Where: Capitol Theatre l more details

Death of a Salesman

Theatre Royal Sydney proudly presents Arthur Miller’s “Death of a Salesman,” starring Emmy, Golden Globe, and Tony Award-winner Anthony LaPaglia. Directed by Neil Armfield, this critically acclaimed production from Melbourne showcases one of the 20th century’s greatest plays.

Featuring leading Australian actors like Alison Whyte and Josh Helman, it’s a timeless masterpiece that has captivated audiences for generations. This promises to be an unforgettable theatrical event.

When: 17 May to 16 June 2024
Where: Theatre Royal

The Odd Couple

The Odd Couple, Neil Simon’s Tony Award-winning comedy, arrives at Theatre Royal in June with Australian comedy icons Shane Jacobson and Todd McKenney leading the cast.

This hilarious story follows Felix and Oscar, two divorced men with polar opposite personalities who decide to share an apartment, leading to a series of comedic conflicts and misunderstandings.

When:  27 June – 13 July 2024
Where: Theatre Royal 

Horizon Bangarra Dance Theatre

“Horizon” is a pioneering performance born from the unique collaboration between leading Māori choreographer Moss Te Ururangi Patterson and renowned Bangarra alumna Deborah Brown.

Together, they and an award-winning ensemble bring to life stories rooted in their ancestral lands, delving into themes of returning home and the perpetual essence of two of the world’s distinguished First Nations. Audiences are invited into a sacred space where the terrestrial and celestial converge, revealing the resilience and splendour of these cultures through “Horizon.”

When: 12 June-13 July 2024
Where: Sydney Opera House l More details

Trophy Boys

“Trophy Boys,” a new Australian play by Soft Tread, is a queer black comedy that combines the worlds of drag and high school debating to explore themes of power and privilege.

Through satire and camp, it critically examines the toxic masculinity, misogyny, and homophobia prevalent in elite private boys’ schools.

When: 19 June – 7 July 2024
Where: Seymour Centre

Stolen

Sydney Theatre Company is proud to present a new production of “Stolen,” a pivotal Australian play by Muruwari playwright Jane Harrison, first introduced in 1998. Directed by STC Resident Director Ian Michael, known for his work on “Constellations,” this production revisits the profound narratives of the Stolen Generation through the lives of five characters: Jimmy, Ruby, Shirley, Sandy, and Anne.

Their stories unfold in a room marked by childhood shadows, suitcases of painful memories, and beds awaiting children separated from their families. “Stolen” powerfully explores the impact of policies aimed at stripping away cultural identities, proving its enduring relevance and emotional resonance.

When: 6 June-6 July
Where: Wharf Theatre

Film Festivals

Sydney Film Festival

The 70th Sydney Film Festival offers another exciting season of cinema amidst a whirlwind of premieres, red-carpet openings, in-depth discussions, film guests, and more. 

When: 5-16 June 2024
Where: The State Theatre, Event Cinemas George Street, Dendy Newtown, Palace Central, Palace Norton Street, Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace Cremorne, Ritz Cinemas Randwick, Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre and Art Gallery of NSW
More: Visit the official site for ticket information

The Korean Film Festival in Australia (KOFFIA) 

The Korean film industry has produced some huge international hits over the last few years. This year’s festival features 13 films from a range of genres including drama, crime, fantasy, mystery, and romantic comedy.

All films are presented on the festival screen with English subtitles.

When: 5-16 June 2024
Where: Event Cinemas George Street 

Children’s International Film Festival

Featuring daring adventures in the Himalayas, a journey through the fascinating world of art, heartwarming friendships, and an exciting blend of live-action and animation, the Children’s International Film Festival (CHIFF) returns for its fifth year, showcasing a program filled with family-friendly films.

When: 15 June – 14 July 2024
Where: Sydney: Ritz Cinemas Randwick; Melbourne: Classic Cinemas Elsternwick, Lido Cinemas Hawthorn and Cameo Cinemas Belgrave
Tickets: Single Admission $15.00, Member tickets $13.00, Family Pass $52.00. Full details here.

Music, Comedy and Dance

The Gospel According to Paul

Award-winning actor and writer Jonathan Biggins steps back into the role of Paul Keating in “The Gospel According to Paul.” This strictly limited season at the Opera House from 4th to 16th June marks the final Sydney run of this captivating one-man show.

Exploring the importance of imagination in leadership, Biggins portrays the former PM with uncanny accuracy, offering insights into the current political landscape while celebrating Keating’s legacy. From his groundbreaking economic reforms to his efforts in addressing Australia’s colonial history, the performance captures the essence of Keating’s leadership.

When: 4-16 June
Where:  Playhouse, Sydney Opera House
Tickets: From $54.00 + booking fee

Art and Exhibitions

Food and Drink Events

Good Food & Wine Show

Sit back and be entertained by your favourite chefs, a perfect day out for food and wine lovers. Enjoy a fantastic day out with friends and wander through the show, sampling from hundreds of stalls, chatting to winemakers and distillers and hearing their stories.

When: 21-23 June 2024
Where: ICC Sydney, Darling Harbour
Tickets: $35. Full guide here

Sports and Outdoor Events

Kiama Coastal Classic

A Super Trail event with a ‘2km Bolt’, ’12km one way classic’ or full 21km Kiama Coastal Classic, runners from all over the state will take on the Kiama coastline’s rolling hills

When: 23 June 2024
Where: Surf Beach, Kiama

NSW Regional Events in June

Dubbo Winter Whiskey Festival

Join distilleries from around Australia and the World in a celebration of whiskey and craft spirit culture. Sample and purchase rare and limited-distribution spirits or enjoy some of the distillers favourite spirits in mixed drinks.

Our Saturday night event is a real festival vibe, where you can take a moment to sit back and listen to the Entertainment or visit one of our amazing food vendors and grab some local cuisine

When: 14-15 June 2024
Where: Dubbo NSW

Borealis Bowral

No need to travel across the world to see the Northern lights this year. You can experience the magic of the Borealis at this year’s Bowral Winterfest.

Mulled wine, steaming hot winter treats and a captivating lightshow await you at Centennial Vineyards, in the Southern Highlands, 90 minutes south of Sydney.

Shuttle services will operate from Moss Vale, Mittagong and Bowral.

When: 2024 TBC
Where: Bowral – 252 Centennial Road Bowral

Orange Winter Jazz Festival

Get set for a long weekend of great music and fine wine in picturesque Orange this winter. The beautiful country township will play host to the Orange Winter Jazz Festival.

50 artists across 8 fantastic venues. Follow the festival on Instagram for announcements.

When: 7-10 June 2024
Where: 8 venues across Orange – ranging from pubs to churches!
More: Check the official event website

Henry Lawson Festival of the Arts – Grenfell

One of Australia’s greatest poets, the town of Grenfell commemorates Henry Lawson’s birth and his amazing legacy with this annual Henry Lawson Festival on the June long weekend. The festival promotes and recognises aspiring Australians in their artistic endeavours.

Enjoy verse, short stories, painting and photography, and more!

When: 6-10 June 2024
Where: Grenfell NSW
More details on the official site

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