What’s on in Sydney in November 2025
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
In its 21st year, Sydney Open offers unprecedented access to more than 55 of the city’s most fascinating buildings and architectural treasures. This one-day celebration of architecture and design allows visitors to explore historic landmarks, contemporary masterpieces, and hidden spaces rarely open to the public.
Create your own urban adventure with self-guided tours, or join expert talks about the buildings that have shaped Sydney’s identity. Perfect for architecture enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone curious about Sydney’s evolving story.
When: Sunday 2 November 2025, 10am-4pm
Where: Various locations across Sydney
Tickets: Sydney Open City Pass required l Bookings: sydneyopen.com.au
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.
Sydney International On-Water Boat Show
The reimagined Sydney International On-Water Boat Show transforms Darling Harbour into a festival of marine lifestyle and innovation. Over 200 luxury vessels will be displayed on a purpose-built marina in Cockle Bay, complemented by extensive shoreside exhibits across Palm Grove and Tumbalong Park.
This year’s extended twilight hours allow visitors to experience Sydney’s spectacular spring evenings while exploring everything from luxury yachts to cutting-edge marine technology, accompanied by waterfront entertainment and dining.
When: 13-16 November 2025
Times: 10am-7pm (Thu-Sat), 10am-6pm (Sun)
Where: Darling Harbour More info: sydneyboatshow.com.au
Sydney Writers’ Festival Family Day
The State Library of NSW transforms into a vibrant hub of storytelling and creativity for Sydney Writers’ Festival’s inaugural Family Day. This celebration of children’s literature features workshops with acclaimed authors, interactive storytelling sessions, and hands-on activities for young readers and writers.
Highlights include graphic novel workshops, pop-up book creation with Freda Chiu, and special appearances by beloved authors. Don’t miss Russ the Story Bus, a mobile library filled with books for young readers to explore. Best suited to kids 3-12 years.
When: Sunday 23 November 2025, 10am-4pm
Where: State Library of NSW
Cost: free sessions and workshops ($10) Bookings: Required for most sessions
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: 1-2 November 10am-4pm
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:14 Nov. 4pm – 9pm, 15-16 Nov. 10am-5pm
Where: Carriageworks, Eveleigh
Entry: $8-12 (cheaper online) daily (Kids under 13 free)
Musical Theatre, Opera & Drama
The Lovers
This bold contemporary musical reimagining of A Midsummer Night’s Dream brings Shakespeare’s classic into the modern age of dating apps and situationships. Featuring an original pop score by Laura Murphy, the production follows matchmakers Oberon and Puck as they meddle in the lives of four young lovers.
The stellar Australian cast includes Jason Arrow (Hamilton) and Natalie Abbott (Muriel’s Wedding The Musical), supported by a live band and innovative video design. Shake & Stir Theatre Co’s production, directed by Nick Skubij, has already earned rave reviews, with Brisbane Times calling it “a dream of a musical.”
When: From 31 October 2025
Where: Theatre Royal Sydney
Bell Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet
Bell Shakespeare brings their acclaimed production of Romeo & Juliet to Sydney, featuring a dynamic young cast led by Madeline Li as Juliet and Ryan Hodson as Romeo. This fresh interpretation of Shakespeare’s classic tragedy balances heartbreak with humor, bringing new energy to this timeless tale of feuding families and young love.
Director Peter Evans delivers a production that critics have praised as “elegant and lively” (The Age) and “a cut above” (Sydney Morning Herald), with striking design by Anna Tregloan and original music by Max Lyandvert.
When: 19 November – 7 December 2025
Where: Sydney Opera House
Back to the Future: The Musical
The Tony Award-winning musical makes its Australian premiere at the Sydney Lyric Theatre, featuring Broadway star Roger Bart as Doc Brown. This stage adaptation of the beloved film brings the time-traveling adventure to life with spectacular effects and the iconic songs we know and love.
Broadway legend Roger Bart, who won acclaim for this role in both the West End and on Broadway, leads an outstanding Australian cast in this Olivier Award-winning production.
When: Wed-Sunday until Jan 2026
Where: Sydney Lyric Theatre
Cost: From $65 Book online
Naturism at Sydney Theatre Company
Griffin Theatre Company presents this daring new comedy by emerging playwright Ang Collins. Directed by Declan Greene, this incisively funny play follows a group of characters navigating hope and delusion in the face of disaster.
The production features a stellar ensemble cast including Nicholas Brown and Hannah Waterman, with innovative design by James Browne and lighting by Verity Hampson.
- Meet the Artists: Tuesday 4 November
- Captioned Performance: Tuesday 11 November
When: Until 15 November 2025
Where: Wharf 2 Theatre, Sydney Theatre Company, Walsh Bay
Cost: $40 – $72
Calamity Jane at Sydney Opera House
Virginia Gay returns as the legendary frontierswoman in this award-winning production. Set in the Golden Garter Saloon, this adaptation of the classic Doris Day film combines wit, heart and Wild West adventure.
After multiple sold-out seasons across Australia and a Sydney Theatre Award for Best Actress, this production has become one of the country’s most celebrated musical revivals.
When: 14 October – 16 November 2025
Where: Studio, Sydney Opera House
Cost: From $89 + booking fee
Pretty Woman: The Musical
The Broadway and West End smash hit arrives at Theatre Royal Sydney this November. Based on the iconic film, this dazzling musical features music and lyrics by Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance, with Australian pop star Samantha Jade leading the cast as Vivian.
The production features a talented ensemble including Michelle Brasier as Kit and Tim Omaji as Happy Man/Mr Thompson, bringing this beloved story to life with a blazing rock score and spectacular choreography by Tony Award® winner Jerry Mitchell.
When: From 30 November 2025
Where: Theatre Royal Sydney
Tickets: From $69 book directly with the theatre
Live Music Performances and Dance
Cabaret at TEATRO
Sydney’s newest theatre venue launches its inaugural cabaret season this November, bringing together an impressive lineup of Australia’s premier performers.
Presented by acclaimed director Gale Edwards and musical director Max Lambert, this three-week program transforms the Italian Forum theatre into an intimate cabaret setting.
Highlights include:
- iOTA in “In the Dark” (4-5 Nov)
- Ursula Yovich’s “All the Stars We Let Go” (6-7 Nov)
- Genevieve Lemon performing The Jimmy Webb Song Book (8 Nov)
- Michael Cormick and Rachael Beck’s “You and I” (12 Nov)
- Bernadette Robinson in “DivaStating” (21-22 Nov)
The season features multiple award-winning performers from shows like Hamilton, Phantom of the Opera, and Moulin Rouge, each presenting unique cabaret performances.
When: 4-22 November 2025
Where: TEATRO, Italian Forum, Leichhardt
Tickets: $69 (plus booking fee) l Book direct
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
ACO X Club Weld
In a groundbreaking collaboration, nine neurodiverse musicians from Club Weld Attitude join forces with the Australian Chamber Orchestra for a unique one-night performance.
This special concert features original works spanning neo-classical, jazz, country, folk, pop, and R&B, with new string arrangements by the ACO.
When: Friday 7 November 2025, 7pm
Where: ACO On The Pier, Walsh Bay Arts Precinct
Tickets: $25 general admission, $10 accessible tickets Book direct
Kacey Musgraves at Sydney Opera House
Eight-time Grammy Award winner Kacey Musgraves makes her Sydney Opera House debut with two exclusive performances. The country music innovator returns to Australia after six years, showcasing songs from her latest album ‘Deeper Well’ alongside favorites from her critically acclaimed catalogue.
Known for her crystalline vocals and genre-defying sound, Musgraves holds the distinction of being the only artist to win Grammy Awards in every major Country Music category.
When: Wednesday 19 & Thursday 20 November 2025, 8pm
Where: Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House
Tickets: From $119.90 Bookings: sydneyoperahouse.com
Piotr Anderszewski: Musica Viva Australia
Acclaimed Polish-Hungarian pianist Piotr Anderszewski makes his return to Australia after a decade-long absence, performing works by Brahms, Bach, and Beethoven. A recipient of three Gramophone Awards, Anderszewski is renowned for his intense and original interpretations of classical masterworks.
The program includes selections from Bach’s Well-Tempered Clavier Book 2, Brahms’ piano pieces, and Beethoven’s Sonata No. 31, marking a fitting conclusion to Musica Viva Australia’s 80th anniversary season.
When: Monday 10 November 2025, 7:00pm
Where: City Recital Hall, Sydney
Bookings: via Musica Viva Australia’s website
Boyd Music Series at Bundanon
The inaugural Boyd Music Series concludes this November with an extraordinary performance by Norwegian composer-performer Benedicte Maurseth and her ensemble. Set in the award-winning Boyd Education Centre overlooking the Shoalhaven River, this collaboration between Bundanon and Sydney Opera House brings world-class chamber music to the stunning South Coast setting.
The final performance features Maurseth’s contemporary interpretations of Norwegian folk traditions, celebrating her new album ‘Mirra’ alongside acclaimed musicians Morten Qvenild, Mats Eilertsen, and Håkon Stene.
When: Saturday 22 November 2025
Where: Boyd Education Centre, Bundanon
Distance: 2.5 hours from Sydney
Film festivals and Events
See the full list of Sydney’s outdoor cinemas for more great movie fun
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 2025 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: 9-12 October 2025
Where: Dendy Cinema, Newtown
More details on the event site
Stargazer Cinema at Barangaroo
Experience First Nations storytelling under the stars at Barangaroo’s Walumil Lawn, with Sydney Harbour as your backdrop. Curated by Winda Film Festival, this free outdoor cinema series celebrates Indigenous filmmakers from Australia and around the world, with directors in attendance to introduce their films.
November’s program features acclaimed works including ‘The Moogai’, a psychological horror by Jon Bell, and other powerful Indigenous stories. Food and drinks available on-site, or BYO picnic from Barangaroo’s restaurants.
When: Thursdays until 20 November, Doors open 6pm, films start 7pm
Where: Walumil Lawn, Barangaroo Reserve
Cost: Free l More info: barangaroo.com/whats-on/events/stargazer-cinema
Jewish International Film Festival
The Jewish Film Festival 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: Until 26 November 2025
Where: Ritz Cinemas, Randwick
Museums & Galleries / Art and Exhibitions
Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year
Celebrating 20 years of environmental photography, this exhibition showcases 120 stunning images documenting Australia’s changing natural world. For the first time, past winners are displayed alongside this year’s finalists, creating a powerful visual timeline of ecological transformation across Australia and the Pacific.
Highlights include ghost bats at dawn, urban-dwelling skinks, and intricate coral ecosystems, captured by both renowned and emerging photographers.
- Wildlife Photography Workshops (22-23 Nov, 13 Dec)
- Beginner: $185, Intermediate: $200
When: 25 October 2025 – 15 February 2026
Where: Australian Museum l Cost: Free
The Last Stronghold – Medieval VR Adventure
Step back in time to 14th century France in this cutting-edge virtual reality experience. Journey through the UNESCO World Heritage site of Carcassonne as it stood in 1304, exploring bustling markets, walking the ramparts, and joining an immersive medieval adventure alongside historical characters.
Experience includes:
- 45-minute interactive VR journey
- Free-roaming exploration of a medieval fortress
- Hands-on interaction with period objects
- Historically accurate recreation validated by experts
Tip: Join the waitlist early for best session times – this unique VR experience is expected to sell out quickly.
When: Tickets on sale until 30 December
Where: Fever Pavilion, Sydney Showground
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
The Hidden Line: Art of the Boyd Women at Bundanon
This groundbreaking exhibition repositions five generations of women artists from the Boyd dynasty, showcasing over 300 works spanning painting, ceramics, sculpture, photography, and design. The exhibition reveals the often-overlooked creative practices of the Boyd women, from Emma Minnie a’Beckett Boyd to contemporary artists Lucy and Polly Boyd.
Eight new commissions by leading Australian women artists including Pat Brassington and Helen Johnson complement the historical works, creating dialogue between past and present. Many pieces from the Bundanon Collection will be exhibited for the first time.
When: 22 November 2025 – 15 February 2026
Where: Bundanon,
Opening Weekend: 22-23 Nov features panel discussions, workshops, and live performances
Head On Photo Festival
Australia’s leading international photography festival returns with powerful exhibitions across Sydney. This year’s program features Pulitzer Prize winner Michael Robinson Chávez’s stark portrait of Ukraine, alongside intimate stories from around the globe.
Highlights include the Head On Photo Awards exhibition showcasing 110 finalist images, a special retrospective of Australian sports photography, and Sydney’s only Photobook & Zine Market at Bondi Pavilion.
Check the website for the list of events.
When: 7-30 November 2025
Where: Bondi Beach Promenade, Bondi Pavilion, Paddington Reservoir Gardens
Cost: Most exhibitions free
Same Like Yesterday: Virlkuthalypila at MCA
Experience Adnyamathanha Country through an immersive 30-minute animated installation at the Museum of Contemporary Art. This giant “pop-up book” brings ancient stories to life through vibrant hand-drawn illustrations and traditional storytelling, following six senior Adnyamathanha women and two young women as they journey through the Flinders Ranges.
Created collaboratively by the Adnyamathanha community and SharingStories Foundation, this unique installation shares important cultural stories and traditions through contemporary animation.
When: Until 12 November 2025
Where: National Centre for Creative Learning, MCA
Cost: Free
Primavera 2025: Young Australian Artists
The Museum of Contemporary Art Australia’s annual exhibition showcasing artists aged 35 and under returns for its 34th year. Curated by Tim Riley Walsh, this year’s Primavera brings together five emerging artists exploring society’s relationship with industry and technology through diverse mediums including installation, sculpture, video and expanded painting.
Featured artists Francis Carmody, Alexandra Peters, Augusta Vinall Richardson, Keemon Williams and Emmaline Zanelli present works that reflect how new technologies and abstract modes of production are influencing contemporary art-making.
When: From 4 September 2025, Mon & Wed-Sun 10am-5pm, Closed Tuesdays
Where: Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, 140 George St, The Rocks
Events for Foodies
November is a bumper month for food lovers in Sydney with loads of food and wine events to fill your calendar.
Spirits & Bites at Barangaroo
This premium tasting experience brings together 70+ high-end spirits from 18 acclaimed distillers in an elegant waterfront setting. Sample everything from Tasmanian single malts to artisanal gins, alongside continuous gourmet canapés at Manjit’s Restaurant overlooking Darling Harbour.
Each two-hour session includes all tastings, food, mixers, and a take-home tasting cup. Bottles available for purchase directly from producers.
When: 14-16 November 2025
Where: Manjit’s Restaurant, Barangaroo l Note: 18+ only event
Cost: $140 per person Bookings: ginevents.com.au
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
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. & George St. Dawes Point Park, under the 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: 1 November 2025
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.
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: 7-16 November 2025
Where: Memorial Park The Entrance
Cost: Free, check the festival program
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
