What’s on in Sydney in November
There’s plenty on in Sydney this November, from big-ticket festivals to smaller events you might not have heard about. This guide covers the lot, so you can plan ahead.
November sits at the tail end of spring, and it’s one of the best months for weather all year. It’s also jacaranda season, when the purple blooms line streets across many Sydney suburbs.
With Sydney Open, Sculpture by the Sea wrapping up and the Boat Show all on, there’s plenty happening, but November still misses the huge crowds and peak prices that summer brings.
Average Temperatures: 24-16°C (75-61°F)
Last November ran warmer than usual, with a top of 34.4°C on the 26th and 42mm of rain across the month.
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Major Events in Sydney in November
Sydney Open
Now in its 22nd year, Sydney Open gives you rare access to some of the city’s most interesting buildings. This one-day event lets you explore historic landmarks, new architecture and spaces that are usually closed to the public.
Follow a self-guided route or join expert talks about the buildings that have shaped Sydney. Good for architecture fans, photographers and anyone curious about how the city has changed.
When: Sunday 1 November 2026, 10am-3.30pm (last entry)
Where: Various locations across Sydney
Cost: Sydney Open City Pass required, price not yet released. Bookings: sydneyopen.com.au
Sculpture By the Sea – Continues until 2 November. 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
Darling Harbour turns into a festival of boats and marine gear for four days. Expect over 200 vessels on a purpose-built marina in Cockle Bay, plus exhibits and dining across Palm Grove and Tumbalong Park.
When: 13-16 November 2026
Times: 10am-7pm (Thu-Sat), 10am-6pm (Sun)
Where: Darling Harbour More info: sydneyboatshow.com.au
Festivals and Community Events
Malaysian Festival
A full day of Malaysian food, music and culture at Darling Harbour. Expect hawker‑style stalls (satay, rendang, nasi lemak), craft and language workshops, and family‑friendly entertainment.
When: TBC
Where: Tumbalong Park, Darling Harbour.
Tickets: Free.
Philippine Christmas Festival (Pasko)
Two days of Filipino food, music and Christmas traditions at Darling Harbour. Expect authentic eats (lechon, adobo, halo‑halo, ube ice cream), cultural performances and family‑friendly activities.
When: TBC
Where: Tumbalong Park, Darling Harbour.
Tickets: Free.
Markets and Fairs
Blak Markets
If you’re after authentic, unique gifts, check out the Blak Markets. You’ll find a wide range of affordable Aboriginal art, jewellery, homewares and beauty products, with 100% of profits going back into the community.
There’s also Indigenous-inspired food and drinks on offer, plus a program of dance, weaving workshops and live music.
When: TBC
Where: Tallawoladah Lawn in The Rocks Precinct
Cost: Free – more details on their FB Page
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.
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: 14 Nov. 4pm – 9pm, 15-16 Nov. 10am-5pm
Where: Carriageworks, Eveleigh
Entry: $8-12 (cheaper online) daily (Kids under 13 free)
Affordable Art Fair
More than 65 galleries from Australia and overseas will bring thousands of original works to Carriageworks, from paintings and prints to photography and sculpture, all priced between $100 and $10,000.
Expect live painting demonstrations, a Children’s Art Studio and the crowd-favourite Art ATM.
When: Thursday 5 – Sunday 8 November 2026
Where: Carriageworks, Eveleigh
Tickets: affordableartfair.com/fairs/sydney/
Musical Theatre, Opera & Drama
Whispering Jack: The John Farnham Musical
This world premiere musical tells the story behind Whispering Jack, the best-selling Australian album of all time, timed to mark its 40th anniversary.
Michael Paynter plays John Farnham, with Bonnie Anderson and Ben Hall as Gaynor and Glenn Wheatley. Directed by Sydney Theatre Company’s Mitchell Butel.
When: From Sunday 15 November 2026 (season runs to 3 January 2027)
Where: Roslyn Packer Theatre
Tickets: sydneytheatre.com.au
Six the Musical
The international hit reimagines the six wives of Henry VIII as a pop-concert girl group, remixing 500 years of history into a sharp, funny 80-minute show.
Returns to Sydney after strong West End and Broadway runs.
When: 9 October – 22 November 2026
Where: Theatre Royal Sydney
Tickets: theatreroyalsydney.com
A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical
The story of how a kid from Brooklyn became a rock icon, told through Neil Diamond’s own catalogue of hits, including Cracklin’ Rosie, Sweet Caroline and Forever in Blue Jeans.
Broadway’s Will Swenson leads the cast as Neil Diamond, following his acclaimed performance in the US production.
When: Previews from Saturday 14 November 2026
Where: Sydney Lyric Theatre
Tickets: theneildiamondmusical.com.au
The Gospel According to Paul: The Second Coming
Jonathan Biggins, co-creator of The Wharf Revue, returns to his acclaimed impression of former PM Paul Keating in this solo comedy.
The show covers Keating’s political career and personal passions, along with fresh material on his more recent public moments. Contains strong language.
When: 6 November – 20 December 2026, 90 minutes, no interval
Where: Wharf 1 Theatre, Wharf 4/5 Hickson Road, Walsh Bay
Cost: $49-$206
Music and Dance
Courtney Barnett
The ARIA Award-winning singer-songwriter returns to the Concert Hall for her first performance there since 2018. The show celebrates her new album, Creature of Habit, written during time spent in the California desert and at her home studio.
Expect her trademark wit and sharp guitar work, backed by a set that draws on her full catalogue, from Avant Gardener through to Pedestrian at Best.
When: Friday 6 November 2026, 8:30pm
Where: Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House
Cost: From $59.90 + booking fee
Dirty Dancing in Concert
A live-to-film concert experience where a full band and vocalists perform the movie’s soundtrack live, in sync with a screening of the digitally remastered film.
The night continues with an after-party where the crowd can keep dancing to the soundtrack. Part of a major world tour, timed around the film’s soundtrack anniversary.
When: Saturday 28 November 2026
Where: Darling Harbour Theatre, ICC Sydney
Tickets: Ticketek
FORMA
A new open-air concert series at Tumbalong Park from Finely Tuned, marking their 20th year putting on live music in Australia. Alongside the shows, expect food and bar stalls set up in the park through the season. Season highlights in November include:
- Friday 27 November: Kool & The Gang and Sister Sledge ft. Sledgendary
- Saturday 28 November: Anjunadeep Open Air Sydney (18+)
- Sunday 29 November: Lime Cordiale and Pacific Avenue, with support from Great Gable, Pamela and Lola Scott
A free family event also runs on Thursday 26 November.
When: 26-29 November 2026
Where: Tumbalong Park, Darling Harbour
Tickets and more details: via formapresents.com.au
Anjunadeep Open Air
Electronic label Anjunadeep returns to Australia with an open-air festival at Tumbalong Park, running from golden hour into the night. Presented by Finely Tuned as part of their 20th anniversary year, this is set to be the biggest Australian edition of the event yet, with a lineup still to be announced.
When: Saturday 28 November 2026
Where: Tumbalong Park, Darling Harbour
Tickets: On sale from 4pm AEST Wednesday 15 July
Film festivals and Events
See the full list of Sydney’s outdoor cinemas for more great movie fun
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.
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
Museums & Galleries / Art and Exhibitions
Philippe Parreno: 5 Moons
French artist Philippe Parreno takes over multiple floors of the MCA with a shifting, sensory exhibition of sound, light and movement, inspired by the moon’s five lunar cycles.
It’s the first major Australian showing of his work, part of the Sydney International Art Series. Expect the exhibition to change from visit to visit, rather than staying fixed.
When: 21 November 2026 – 26 April 2027
Where: Museum of Contemporary Art Australia
Cost: Check mca.com.au for ticketing details
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.
When: TBC
Where: Australian Museum l Cost: Free
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
Head On Photo Festival returns for its 16th year with exhibitions and events across Bondi and Paddington. The Festival opens on 7 November with the Head On Photo Awards announcements (prize pool $80,000), plus the inaugural $5,000 Mayor of Waverley’s Prize.
Check the website for the programme and list of events.
When: Until 12 November 2025
Where: National Centre for Creative Learning, MCA
Cost: Free
Events for Foodies
November is a bumper month for food lovers in Sydney with loads of food and wine events to fill your calendar.
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: 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.
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: TBC
Where: Memorial Park The Entrance
Cost: Free, check the festival program
Horizontal Festival
Centennial Vineyards in Bowral turns into a weekend-long celebration of food, wine and live music over the October long weekend. Spread across wine tasting zones, a food hall, a craft beer and cider garden, and a live music stage, the festival includes chef-led sessions on the Maldon Salt Culinary Stage from names like Mark Best and Mindy Woods.
Argentine fire-cooking legend Francis Mallmann headlines this year’s program, making his first East Coast Australia appearance in 15 years, with a satellite lunch event at Osborn House on the Monday. Matt Moran also hosts an intimate cellar door dinner the Thursday before the festival opens.
When: Fri 2 Oct (5.30pm-9.30pm), Sat 3 Oct (12pm-4pm & 5.30pm-9.30pm), Sun 4 Oct (12pm-4pm)
Where: Centennial Vineyards, Bowral
Cost: General Admission $59 Platinum Pass $149 – plus booking fees.
Man on Fire: Visions of Nebuchadnezzar
Arthur Boyd’s iconic Nebuchadnezzar series meets a major new commission by contemporary artist Shaun Gladwell at Bundanon’s Art Museum. The exhibition pairs Boyd’s 1960s paintings, exploring themes of power, ego and exile, with Gladwell’s new film, performance and photography work shot along the Shoalhaven River.
When: On now until 11 October 2026
Where: Bundanon Art Museum, 170 Riversdale Rd, Illaroo NSW
Cost: Details at bundanon.com.au
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
