There is lots to see and do in Sydney in November and our comprehensive list will help you find all the top events and some of the more obscure but equally interesting ones.
In the last four weeks of spring, the city enjoys some of the loveliest weather of the year. It is also Jacaranda season when a purple haze covers the footpaths of many Sydney suburbs.
No large annual events mean prices in hotels are reasonable and attractions are not as busy as they will become in the next few months.
Average Temperatures: 24-16°C (61-75°F)
While each year varies last November saw seven days of rain.
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Major Events in Sydney in November
Sydney Open
Sydney Open is our city’s premier architectural event, offering a unique opportunity to explore behind the scenes of Sydney’s most historically and architecturally significant buildings and spaces. This annual event, provides unprecedented access to structures that are often closed to the public.
Over the past two and a half decades, this prestigious event has opened the doors to more than 600 buildings and places of cultural significance. In that time, it has welcomed over 95,000 attendees.
When: 3 November 2025 – all events now sold out!
Where: Mainly in the inner city and suburbs
Sculpture By the Sea – Continues this month – The cliffs between Bondi and Tamarama Beaches play host to up to 100 sculptures making this breathtaking walk even more stunning.
Ghost in the Rocks continues until 3 November, see last months listing for details
Markets and Fairs
Greenwich Village Arts Trail
Greenwich artists are inviting the public to explore their studios and view their art. Despite its small size, this community boasts numerous talented artists, including award-winning contemporary painters, illustrators, sculptors, ceramicists, jewelers, photographers, and textile artists.
The Art Trail in Greenwich is a unique experience that guides you through this hidden gem of a suburb, just a few kilometres from the city centre. Follow the walk using the map or opt for the free hop-on-hop-off bus service that the local council will operate across the weekend. Buses leave from Greenwich wharf every 15 minutes.
When: TBC
Where: Open studios in Greenwich, details here
Finders Keepers Market
Visit one of Australia’s favorite design markets as The Finders Keepers returns to Carriageworks this November. This much-loved market brings together Australia’s best designers and makers, offering a chance to shop unique, mindfully made products while enjoying live DJs, fresh food, and local bars.
It’s the perfect place to celebrate creativity and support the country’s top talent. Plus, grab unique Christmas presents.
When: TBC
Where: Carriageworks, Eveleigh, NSW, Gadigal land
Entry: $6 daily (Kids under 13 free!)
Musical Theatre, Opera & Drama
Live Music Performances and Dance
Sydney Symphony Orchestra – Mozart’s Jupiter Symphony
Immerse yourself in the brilliance of Mozart’s final symphony, Symphony No. 41, popularly known as the “Jupiter.” This masterpiece is a stunning blend of grandeur and elegance, showcasing Mozart’s genius.
With its opening chords evoking the might of thunderbolts and the majesty of the king of the gods, this symphony promises to be an electrifying experience. Join Chief Conductor Simone Young as she leads the orchestra through this striking composition.
When: 8–9 November
Where: Sydney Opera House
Cost: Starting from $69
Film festivals and Events
See the full list of Sydney’s outdoor cinemas for 2024-25 for more great movie fun
Japanese Film Festival
The finest of Japanese storytelling will be on offer at the 2025 Japanese Film Festival.
Visit the festival website for the complete film lineup.
When: TBC
Where: Palace Norton Street
Irish Film Festival Australia
The Irish Film Festival continues this month, bringing a stellar selection of Ireland’s finest cinematic offerings to Australian audiences. From gripping dramas to thought-provoking documentaries, the 2024 program promises to deliver the wit and charm that Irish storytelling is renowned for.
This year’s festival places a special emphasis on musical themes and important women’s issues, including domestic violence awareness.
When: TBC
Where: Dendy Cinema, Newtown
More details on the event site
Jewish International Film Festival
The Jewish International Film Festival (JIFF) continues this November, offering a captivating lineup of films that dive deep into Jewish life and culture. You can enjoy a diverse mix of 41 feature films, television series, and short films from across 17 countries, with themes that range from history and survival to music and modern-day challenges.
Highlights for this month include The Performance and Tatami, along with exclusive Q&A sessions with filmmakers. Whether you’re in the mood for drama, comedy, or documentary, there’s something for every film lover.
When: TBC
Where: Ritz Cinemas, Randwick
The Smart Fone Flick Fest (SF3)
The Smart Fone Flick Fest (SF3) is back for its 10th year, celebrating the best international short films shot entirely on smartphones. This year’s festival features over 360 entries from around the world, including categories for kids, mini films, and a special AI section.
When: November 2025
Where: Palace Chauvel Cinema, Paddington, Sydney
Museums & Galleries / Art and Exhibitions
Ocean Photographer of the Year
Dive into a world of wonder at the Ocean Photographer Exhibition, showcasing the most breathtaking underwater imagery from around the globe. This stunning collection features works from both renowned and emerging photographers, offering a unique glimpse into the mysterious depths of our oceans.
When: From late November
Where: Australian National Maritime Museum
Head On Photo Festival
Secure your ticket to Australia’s hottest event in photography! The Head On Photo Festival returns to Sydney for its 16th year, with a program full of exciting events and engaging artist talks.
Don’t miss out on the Head On Launch Party, where you can experience the power of a global arts platform firsthand. You’ll meet the exciting faces behind the world’s most acclaimed photographic works.
Check the website for the list of events.
When: From 8 Nov 2025
Where: Bondi Pavilion and Beach Promenade and in galleries across Sydney
Events for Foodies
November is a bumper month for food lovers in Sydney with loads of food and wine events to fill your calendar.
Wine Island: A Holiday on the Harbour
Nestled among the palm trees at Gap Bluff in the stunning NSW National Park, this hidden paradise will offer panoramic views over Sydney Harbour while you indulge in a curated selection of wines, beverages, and culinary delights from around the world.
Explore cellar doors from acclaimed wineries like Kies Family Wines, DAS Juice, Chateau Tanunda, Rameau d’Or, and many more! Enjoy a refreshing selection of drinks from iconic Australian holiday spots, including Broulee Brewhouse, Papa Salt Gin, and Lūla Rum.
When: Friday 29 November to Sunday 1 December
Where: Gap Bluff, Watsons Bay
Tickets: on sale now from $89 via their Wine Island
Five Dock “Little Italy” Food Tour
Discover one of Sydney’s original Italian Communities on this walking tour of Five Dock and discover their passion and taste their delicious products!
This is a great experience for locals or visitors to Sydney who want to see a slice of everyday life.
When: 9 November, 9am
Where: Meet in front of Fred Kelly Place, just back off Great North Road Five Dock
Tickets: $70 per person (includes one coffee and 4 tastings, Book here
Sports and Outdoor Events
Yoga in the Park
Get fit and flexible every Sunday morning with FREE Yoga in The Park! The focus on breathing, the concentration required to find balance in certain poses, the flow of the movements – it’s all an active meditation that can help clear the mind, quieten anxieties and strengthen your body.
When: 9:30 am, every Sunday (All Year)
Where: Corner of Lower Fort St. and George St. at Dawes Point Park, right under the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Tickets: Free, more Info here
NSW Regional Events
Blackheath Rhododendron Festival
It’s a flower festival with a whole lot more, including a grand street parade, wood chopping, coal shovelling and lots more.
When: TBC
Where: Wentworth Street Blackheath Village, Blue Mountains.
Cost: Free More: Check the festival website
Check out our weekend in Blackheath for ideas of other sites to see if you visit the Rhododendron Festival or our guide to the Blue Mountains High Tea for a bite to eat before you head home.
Savour The Tweed – A Culinary Celebration
Get ready for five days of flavour-filled experiences at Savour The Tweed, Australia’s newest food and drink event, in the last week of November. This exciting event showcases The Tweed’s gourmet offerings through a stunning program of over 20 distinctive events.
From First Nations storytellers to passionate chefs, talented distillers, brewers, baristas, cheesemakers, and artisan producers, Savour The Tweed brings together the best of the region’s culinary scene.
With events like the Welcome to Country Dinner with Bundjalung chef Mindy Woods, seafood cooking demos with award-winning chefs, and exclusive dining experiences featuring local produce, Savour The Tweed is a must-attend for food lovers.
When: 30 October – 3 November 2024
Where: Various locations across The Tweed
Cost: Visit savourthetweed.com.au for event details and ticket purchases.
The Lakes Festival
The Lakes Festival is a 10 day event featuring more than 20 free events across the Central Coast. Think sports, family fun, culture, art, and live music events.
Events are spread along the coast from Woy Woy to Budgewoi. The star of the show Light up the Lake on Saturday 9 November, will feature fireworks, food stalls, and plenty of great live music, so grab a picnic blanket and join in the fun.
When: 8-17 November 2024
Where: Memorial Park The Entrance
Cost: Free, check the festival program
Berry Motorfair
Berry Motorfair is back and bigger than ever! This year’s event will be held at the stunning Coolangatta Estate Winery, offering a perfect day out for car enthusiasts, families, and friends. Expect a curated collection of cool, classic, and collectible cars, alongside live music, delicious food and drink stalls, charity auctions, and exciting giveaways.
In addition to the spectacular cars and entertainment, Berry Motorfair continues its support for Lifeline Australia and is proud to partner with the Starlight Children’s Foundation. The event aims to raise $150,000 for these vital organizations.
- When: Sunday, 24th Nov. 2024 – 10am to 2pm
- Where: Coolangatta Estate Winery, 1335 Bolong Road, Coolangatta
- Tickets: from Berry Motorfair Humanitix page
Plan ahead
There is lots happening across Sydney over the summer so get a head start with these pages.
- What’s on in Sydney in December
- What’s on in January in Sydney
- Christmas Events
- School holidays in Sydney
Have questions about things to see and do in Sydney?
Head over and join our Facebook Group and we will be happy to help.
