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. This year things have been a little different, so really… It’s anyone’s guess!

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Major Events in Sydney in November

• Sydney Open – This two-day event allows you to get behind the scenes views of Sydney’s historic buildings, and architectural landmarks.
  
• 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.
  

Festivals, Fairs And Community Events

Schools Spectacular: FABULOUS

It is an iconic cultural event incorporating students from diverse backgrounds and communities from the length and breadth of the state. The Schools Spectacular is a world-class arena production and one of the largest annual events of its calibre anywhere in Australia, and arguably the world. From its ability to produce national and international stars, to its role in promoting inclusiveness and reconciliation, the Schools Spectacular has no peer.

When: 24-25 November 2023
Where: Qudos Bank Arena
Cost: from $58.50, more details here

Markets

Woodstock Artisans Christmas Market

Make your way to Woodstock Community Centre for the fourth annual Woodstock Market. Just 10 minutes walk from Burwood Station the market will host over 70 high-quality stalls perfect for unique gifts, making your Christmas shopping a little easier. At the same time, you know your dollars are going directly to the creators

When: Sunday 5 Nov. 10am-3pm
Where: Woodstock Community Centre, 22 Church St, Burwood
More: More details here

See our full list of Christmas Markets for dozens more events.

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: 3-5 Nov. 10am-4pm
Where: Woodstock Community Centre
More: More details here

Musical Theatre, Opera & Drama

Wicked

When: Wednesday-Sunday Until 20 January
Where: Lyric Theatre 
Cost: From $70 (Transaction fees apply)

The memory of Water

The Memory of Water, is a touching and humorously sharp tale about differing memories, existence, and loss, by the English playwright, Shelagh Stephenson.

Mary, Catherine, and Teresa are siblings with shared experiences: a history of arguing over bicycles, late-night ice cream sodas, cocktail dresses, and guidance from their mum delicately infused with her signature scent; all a part of their seaside upbringing interrupted occasionally by their father’s terse comments.

The lines between reality and family lore become blurred. What’s the cause of the escalating feud in their mother’s room? Why do past memories linger?

The line-up of actors features Nicole da Silva, known for her roles in Rush and One Night, Michala Banas from McLeod’s Daughters, and Thomas Campbell from Hayes Theater.

When: 20 October – 25 November
Where: Ensemble Theatre
Cost: From $38-80, tickets here

A Migrant’s Son

Riverside Theatres is delighted to present Australian cabaret star Michaela Burger’s A Migrant’s Son, a multi-award-winning musical tribute to the heart and hilarity of Australia’s migrant stories.

Described as a “story that millions of Australians could relate to” (The Australian), this Helpmann Award-nominated cabaret show features all-original music written and performed by Burger alongside a live band and community choir.

In this tale of strength and determination, Michaela pays tribute to her Greek migrant family and hard-working, fun loving larrikin father Luke, who defied all odds.

When: Friday 3rd November
Where: Riverside Theatre, Corner of Church and Market St, Parramatta
Tickets: Members Tickets starting from $33 | Non-Members Tickets starting from $35

LUZIA Cirque Du SolEIL

LUZIA draws its inspiration from the people, locales, and tales that define Mexico. It invites you on a journey through a dreamlike Mexico, bridging the gap from ancient folklore to the contemporary urban landscape. LUZIA immerses you in an imaginary Mexico, much like a vivid daydream, where light (“luz” in Spanish) uplifts the spirit, and rain (“lluvia”) brings solace to the soul.

With a surreal sequence of stunning visual surprises and awe-inspiring acrobatic performances, LUZIA ingeniously brings to life various facets of Mexico, blending elements from its rich traditions and modernity onto the stage.

When: 24 November – 12 January 2024
Where: Big Top, Entertainment Quarter Moore Park
Tickets: Starting from $80 Buy from the offiicial site here

Tubular Bells for Two 

Riverside Theatresis thrilled to present the exclusive final Sydney performance of the internationally acclaimed show, Tubular Bells for Two.

A multi-award-winning hit at festivals around the world, Tubular Bells for Two sees two barefoot blokes juggling over 20 instruments in a spellbinding performance as they attempt to recreate Mike Oldfield’s 1973 classic album, Tubular Bells (50^th Anniversary).

In Tubular Bells for Two, the two multi-instrumentalists try to recreate the sounds of the original album as closely as physically possible.

When: Saturday 18th November 2023, 8pm
Where: Riverside Theatre, Riverside Theatres – Corner of Church and Market St, Parramatta
Tickets: Members Tickets starting from $33 | Non-Members Tickets starting from $39

The Master & MargaritA

In a mesmerising theatrical masterpiece, the devil will make Surry Hills home, as Belvoir brings to life Mikhail Bulgakov’s literary masterpiece ‘The Master & Margarita’.

When: 11 November – 17 December
Where: Belvior Street Theatre
Tickets: $37-72 available here

Shakespeare in the Garden – A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Shakespeare’s most enigmatic work comes to life in a breath-taking outdoor production by the Merrigong Theatre Company full of music, magic and mirth.

When: 9 – 26 November
Where: Turpentine Lawn–Wollongong Botanic Garden
Tickets: $39-$59 here

Lost Boys

A sixty-minute explosion of immersive theatrical magic and live soundscapes inspired by J.M. Barrie’s classic text Peter and Wendy. This production by multi-award-winning independent theatre company Little Eggs Collective and the Seymour Centre invites the audience to become part of the Lost Boys tribe.

When: 10 November – 1 December (Tuesdays to Fridays 7:30pm; Saturdays 2:30pm & 7:30pm)
Where: Seymour Centre
Tickets: $35-$49 available here 

TRACK WORKS

All aboard for the operatic odyssey of a lifetime; the breathtaking, site-specific pastiche opera TRACK WORKS will take centre stage at Sydney’s iconic Mortuary Station.

Step into the lives of five commuters grappling with everyday challenges during their delayed journeys home.

When: 21 November – 19 December, 2023
Where: Mortuary Station, 52 Regent St, Chippendale
Tickets: $45 – $60

Twelfth Night

This production of Twelfth Night, Shakespeare’s most musical play, features original music from Aria Award winner Sarah Blasko. Six new songs are sung live onstage by the cast, and the plot is carried along by Blasko’s melancholic score.

When: 26 October-19 November
Where: Sydney Opera House
Cost: From $89

Mansion

Prepare to be transported into a realm where gothic horror seamlessly blends with captivating dance performances.

MANSION is the epitome of spine-tingling sensuality. It narrates the story of Mel Walker, a recent widow, and her children, who seek refuge in an ancient mansion in search of new beginnings.

When: 25 October-19 November 2023
Where: Sydney Spiegeltent, The Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park
Cost: $50-$120 Secure your tickets here

THE ITALIAN COMEDY

Placebo is the owner of the most unfashionable fashion store in Venice, holding out against the rising tide of the capitalist Cello and his cut-rate clothing factory. On the plus side, it gives him time to play matchmaker to his young friend, Folio.

But when there is unrest at the factory, and Folio’s revolutionary sister Messia is involved, Placebo gets more than he bargained for when he agrees to shelter the fugitive in his store – disguised as a mannequin.

The Italian Comedy is directed by Steven Hopley and starring Carla Field, James Hartley, Brendan Layton, Logan McArthur, Rosie Meader, Tess O’Sullivan, Nicholas Richard & Emilia Stubbs Grigoriou 

When: October 29 – December 3
Where: 107 Projects 107 Redfern St, Redfern
Tickets: $35 full / $30 concession / $20 preview – Booking link

Live Music Performances and Dance

Sydney Symphony Orchestra

With four fabulous performances to choose from this month, there is no better time to see the Sydney Symphony is action. If you are visiting Sydney, it’s a great chance to experience the newly renovated concert hall.

• Compassion (4 – 5 November) will unite Australian singer-songwriter Lior’s energising vocal range and acclaimed composer Nigel Westlake’s orchestral writings, performed by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. In this performance, Lior will pour his passion into a range of songs from his award-winning career. 
• James Ehnes’s performs Beethoven (9 – 12 November) will be a mesmerising and masterly interpretation of Beethoven’s monumental Violin Concerto, led by Sydney Symphony Orchestra Chief Conductor, Simone Young.
• Beethoven’s Violin Sonatas with James Ehnes (20 November) will be an intimate recital with pianist Andrew Armstrong, exploring three of Beethoven’s most treasured violin sonatas.

Fidelio (25 – 26 November) will be presented as an opera-in-concert led by Chief Conductor Simone Young, collaborating with an exceptional international cast. In these performances, Beethoven’s only opera will be reimagined by award-winning First Nations author Tyson Yunkaporta who has written new texts to draw us deeper into the composer’s compelling landscape of memory, hope and human aspiration.

When: Various dates throughout November
Where: Sydney Opera House Concert Hall
Cost: From $22, book here

Great Southern Nights Taster Series

A warm up for next years Great Southern Night Festival which will see 300 live gigs in venues across Western Sydney and Sydney’s inner city as well as shows in Wollongong, Wagga, Newcastle, the Northern Rivers and Tamworth. This taster series will help such diverse venues as Gasoline Pony in Marrickville, The Union Hotel in Newtown, Dame Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre in Penrith and Collector Hotel in Parramatta.

Artists Include: Isabella Manfredi, Thelma Plum, Alex The Astronaut, Dami Im, Jet and The Temper Trap. Check the website for the full gig guide.

When: 16-25 November
Where: Inner Western and Western Sydney
Cost: From $22, More details

Hot Jazz Picnic

The summer is about to ring in with the sizzling jazz sounds, local artists, gourmet treats, and a colourful dress code of this unique Australian picnic-style, live-performance jazz festival set against the beautiful background of Sydney’s famed harbour.

When: 25 November 2023
Where: Lyne Park in Rose Bay
Cost: $79, children under 12 are free to attend, full details here

Comedy

Just for Laughs

Mark your calendars and brace yourselves for a laughter-packed extravaganza like never before! Now in its 11th year, catch Kevin Bridges, Nina Conti, Just For Laughs Australia: Live shows hosted by Melanie Bracewell and the Just For Laughs All-Star Gala hosted by Urzila Carlson, plus more!

When: 12 – 20 November 2023
Where: Joan Sutherland Theatre
Cost: $99-199, full guide here

AnNabel Crabb

This November, get ready for a hilarious evening with Annabel Crabb and her hit one-woman show, “50 Odd Years Of Crabb.” Following a triumphant sold-out run at the 2023 Adelaide Fringe, Annabel Crabb brings her exclusive Sydney season to the stage.

In her half-century of life, Annabel Crabb has worn many hats – from farmhand to cookbook author, political correspondent, podcaster, mother, defendant, and even an intruder in political kitchens. With her new show, Crabb celebrates her special birthday milestone by sharing 50 valuable life lessons learned over 50 years.

“Turning 50 is a real opportunity for reflection, growth, and learning,” says Crabb. “And if I have to go through that, there’s absolutely no reason paying customers shouldn’t be subjected to it as well.”

When: Saturday 25 November, 6:00pm & 8:30pm &Wednesday 29 November, 8:00pm
Where: Performing Arts Centre Sutherland
Cost: $55-$70

Feel The Magic: Magic Men Live

Get ready to experience the ultimate night out with Australia’s rated #1 male revue show! Magic Men’s “FEEL THE MAGIC” features the hottest hunks bringing the heat to town with their sizzling performances.

When: Every Saturday 6pm – 9:30pm
Where: Home Nightclub Cockle Bay Wharf
Cost: $50, tickets here

Carl Barron

Join Carl for one final encore of his brilliant show – Skating Rink for Flies. Voted number one comedian two years running, and after selling a mammoth 300,000 tickets to his previous tour, Carl has added one more run around the country due to outrageous demand! This really is the last chance to catch the hilarious ‘Skating Rink For Flies’ tour.

When: Saturday, 18 November 2023
Where: Qudos Bank Arena
Cost: From $89, buy tickets here

Museums & Galleries / Art and Exhibitions

1001 Objects

Discover a fascinating collection of 1001 Remarkable Objects that features an eclectic mix of objects from various time periods and recollections. You may go on a tour through 25 rooms, where you’ll see beloved Powerhouse Collection artefacts with never-before-seen things.

When: Until December 2023
Where: Powerhouse Museum
Cost: Free, no registration required

Ramses and the Gold of the Pharaohs

Explore “Ramses & The Gold of the Pharaohs,” an interactive museum experience that offers a glimpse into the life and achievements of King Ramses II, famously known as Ramses the Great. He reigned over Egypt for nearly 67 years, making it the second longest rule in Ancient Egyptian history.

Ramses was renowned as a formidable warrior who established peace with neighboring regions. His reign witnessed an extensive building campaign, resulting in numerous monumental structures dedicated to himself. He’s also believed to have had over 100 children.

This exhibition also includes a virtual reality experience that transports visitors to two of Ramses’ most remarkable monuments: the Tomb of Queen Nefertari, his beloved Royal Consort, and the awe-inspiring temples of Abu Simbel.

When: 18 November to 19 May 2024 sessions from 9am to 9pm
Where: Australian Museum
Cost: Adults from $38, Concession from $32, Child from $25. Purchase via Ticketmaster

2023 Ocean Photographer of the Year exhibition

The Ocean Photographer of the Year exhibition is a stunning collection of over 100 photographs that offer both beauty and contemplation.

This exhibition provides a comprehensive view of ocean life, encompassing drone, land, and underwater photography. It includes remarkable wildlife encounters, breathtaking seascapes, and artistic interpretations of the profound connection between humans and the ocean.

Featuring winners and finalists from Oceanographic Magazine’s prestigious competition, the Ocean Photographer of the Year awards, the exhibition draws entries from global photographers, both amateur and professional.

When: World premiere 17 November and continues into the new year.
Where: Australian National Maritime Museum
Cost: A$25 Children 4-15 years $15 under 4 years free

Kandinsky

Drawing on the rich holdings of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York, this comprehensive exhibition showcases the life and work of one of the most significant and best-loved European modernists, Vasily Kandinsky.

When: 4 November 2023 – 10 March 2024
Where: Art Gallery of New South Wales South Building Lower level 2
Cost: $35 adult, $88 family (2 adults + up to 3 children) | $16 youth (12–17 years) | Free for children under 12
Full guide on the event site

Head On Photo Festival 2023

Discover the work of emerging and established photographers at this years Head On Photo Festival. The festival includes over 110 exhibitions, 700 artists, and a variety of talks and events. Spread across galleries and venues across the city. Check the website for the list of events.

When: 10 November – 3 December
Where: Bondi Pavilion and Beach Promenade and in galleries across Sydney
Cost: Some events are free – many of the talks cost $15

Louise Bourgeois

Experience the strange beauty and emotional power of Louise Bourgeois’s art, in the largest exhibition of her work ever seen in Australia.

When: 25 November 2023 – 28 April 2024
Where: Art Gallery of New South Wales South Building Lower level 2
Cost: $35 adult, $88 family (2 adults + up to 3 children) | $16 youth (12–17 years) | Free for children under 12
More info on the event site

Film Festivals

Jewish International Film Festival

Presenting a jam-packed program of over 50 of the best new Jewish-themed films from all across the world, the Jewish International Film Festival presents a blockbuster line-up of must-see headliners, literary deep-dives, extraordinary true stories and laugh-out-loud comedies. 

When: 23 October-6 December 2023
Where: Roseville and Randwick
More here

Events for Foodies

The Big Bake Off

If your viewing history includes the likes of Sugar Rush and Cake Wars, we have the perfect activity for you this month. No experience is necessary to join one of these themed baking sessions, where you will compete for the champion title.  

 Included is a glass of bubbly on arrival, tips from our chef and some take-home baked items.

When: 5 November-31 January 2024 – Thursday to Saturday
Where: Devon Cafe – 36 Blue Street North Sydney
Cost: $55-60 (over 18 years only)
Book early to avoid disappointment

PATRÓN El Cielo Events

In celebration of the upcoming summer season and the launch of the world’s first quadruple-distilled prestige tequila, PATRÓN EL CIELO, PATRÓN has partnered with some of Sydney’s most exclusive Mexican bars and restaurants. They are offering 10,000 luxurious Umai Heritage caviar bumps (valued at $32 each) with every PATRÓN EL CIELO cocktail from a special limited-edition menu.

The menu includes three enticing cocktails:

• PATRÓN EL CIELO Signature Serve ($35) – A serving of the smooth and naturally sweet PATRÓN EL CIELO tequila over ice, garnished with an orange wheel for a hint of citrus.
• PATRÓN Y PASSION ($38) – Inspired by passion fruit ceviche from Taqiza, featuring PATRÓN EL CIELO, passionfruit, vanilla, mint, and a pinch of salt.
• PATRÓN TROPICAL SPRITZ ($35) – A light and refreshing cocktail, perfect for warmer days, made with PATRÓN EL CIELO, Aperol, pineapple, basil, and topped with prosecco.

When you visit select venues like Santa Catarina, Carbón, Londres 126, Bar Lucia, Taqiza, or Calita, and order one of these PATRÓN EL CIELO cocktails, you’ll receive a complimentary serving of prestigious Umai Heritage caviar to enhance your enjoyment. It’s the perfect way to welcome summer in style!

When: from 7 November
Where: Circulaw Quay, Bondi and Potts Point

Thanksgiving Downunder

Are you an American who longs for a traditional Thanksgiving meal or just someone who has always wondered what roast turkey with all the trimmings is all about? Well, you are in luck, this year three leading American-inspired venues in Sydney have come together to give us Thanksgiving to Sydney this November.

NOLA Smokehouse and Bar, underground cocktail bar The Swinging Cat and the recently opened Nashville-inspired whiskey and country music bar, Jolene’s will all be offering Thanksgiving treats

On Thanksgiving, Thursday 23th November, NOLA Smokehouse and Bar will be hosting an exclusive Thanksgiving Feast Set Menu, featuring all the American classics. With Mac ‘n’ Cheese, Deviled Eggs and Pumpkin Pie up for grabs, bookings are essential. Oh and did we mention it will be the only restaurant in Sydney where you will be able to enjoy an actual roast Thanksgiving Turkey?

Jolene’s will offer a Thanksgiving Turkey Dog topped with Cranberry Slaw and Stuffing Crumb or a classic American dessert like Southern-Style Pecan Pie.

The Swinging Cat is cooking up Thanksgiving Leftovers jaffles stuffed with turkey, brie and cranberry jam and will serve a Thanksgiving drinks menu taking inspiration from holiday favourites including ‘Peach Kiss’ and Banana-Split inspired ‘Let’s Split.’ 

When: Throughout November
Where: Nola Smokehouse, Swinging Cat and Jolene

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: Friday, 10 November 2023
Where: Meet in front of Fred Kelly Place, just back off Great North Road Five Dock
Tickets: $50 per person (includes one coffee and 4 tastings, Book here

White Lotus Wine Dinner at I Maccheroni

Indulge in an evening of sophistication as we explore the elegance of Sicilian wines from the renowned Etna region. Join us for the White Lotus Wine Dinner, an exclusive event presented in collaboration with esteemed Italian Wine Importers.

This captivating evening is designed to transport you through the heart of Sicily, offering insights into the region’s history, culture, and the exceptional flavors of some of Italy’s finest wines.

When: Wednesday, 22nd November
Where: 3 Jersey Rd, Woollahra
Tickets: $165 per person (includes wine tasting and several matched courses)

Sports and Outdoor Events

UA Combine

UA COMBINE is a one-day, first-of-its-kind 1-day fitness competition that combines  8 tests, challenging Agility, Stamina, Vertical, Power, Endurance, Strength, speed, and Cognition.into one athleticism test.

When: Saturday 4th November 10am-8pm
Where: Carriageworks, Sydney
Cost: $75–100 More details here

SportsPlus – A New Wave of Social Entertainment

Introducing SportsPlus, a groundbreaking experience in Australia that seamlessly blends thrilling social sports simulator encounters with delectable food and drinks, all within a vibrant atmosphere.

SportsPlus is tailored to appeal to individuals or groups seeking a fantastic time. The best part? Everyone is invited, and upon arrival, you’ll have the exciting choice to play Cricket, Baseball, Tennis, or Lacrosse.

The flexibility is yours – play one, two, three, or all four! Even more thrilling, you can swap sports at any time during your session. If you decide to engage in multiple sports, your scores carry over, allowing you to challenge friends for the highest score across the entire spectrum. It’s an invitation to a dynamic world of sports and socialising where the fun never stops

When: Opening 26 November
Where: Level 1 of Canterbury League Club
More details here

Classes

Blend and sip

Prepare for an exclusive VIP experience at our Blend & Sip X Bartega VIP Event, hosted by Bartega at the Canterbury Leagues Club. This evening is set to be extraordinary.

Kick off with a comprehensive makeup lesson led by skilled makeup artists and receive a generous goodie bag valued at over $100. Sip on a complimentary cocktail of your preference and savor a delectable grazing spread all night long. The festivities continue with live music and a lively atmosphere, ensuring an unforgettable evening.

When: Sunday, November 26th, 2pm – 5pm
Where: 26 Bridge Rd, Belmore
Cost: Starting from $170 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: 4 November 2023
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 including:

• Sunset session in Woy Woy
• Comedy Gala in Gosford
• Bouddi Coastal Run in Killcare
• Avoca Lagoon Kayaking Eco tour
• Surfside Sounds at North Entrance

The star of the show Light up the Lake on Saturday 4 November, will feature fireworks, food stalls, and plenty of great live music, so grab a picnic blanket and join in the fun.

When: 3-12 November 2023
Where: Memorial Park The Entrance
Cost: Free, check the festival program

New Dog Old Tricks

The display challenges the artists to reconsider and consider how we perceive things. Imagine a dog as a key to other physical and emotional worlds when thinking about dogs.

When: 18 November 2023 – 4 February 2024
Where: Ngununggula, 1 Art Gallery Lane, Bowral
More: Check the event site

Plan ahead

• What’s on in Sydney in December
• What’s on in January in Sydney
• Christmas Events
• School holidays in Sydney