Culture and Entertainment
With its passion for the arts, love of good food, and respect for tradition and heritage – Sydney’s culture is as dynamic, diverse and interesting as the people who call it home. And when it comes to entertainment, few other cities put on a show quite like Sydney. From cheering on local sports teams to catching a show at the Opera House, there are a plenty of ways to experience the spirit of the city.
Festival fever
Sydney’s festivals showcase the diversity and dynamism the city is known for around the world. Here's a taste:
- New Years’ Eve - January
- Australia Day - January
- Sydney Festival - January
- Chinese New Year Festival - February
- Mardi Gras - March
- Autumn Racing Carnival - March - April
- Mercedes-Benz FashionWeek - May
- Vivid Sydney - June
- Spring Racing Carnival - September - October
- Sydney Good Food Month - October
- Sculpture by the Sea - November
Food and dining
It’s no secret that Sydney’s food scene is up there with the best. Steeped in multiculturalism and driven by innovation, you’ll find a range of dining options to choose from: from the classics - Quay and Tetsuyas, to the hottest new trailblazers such as Firedoor and Ester Restaurant. But they’re just the highlights, visitors with more time should explore the hidden gems favoured by locals such as Spice I Am, Luca’s Bar and Grill, Tapavino. Or, to really live it up with the locals, head into the surrounding neighbourhoods and sample the best of our globally-influenced local cuisine.
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Passion for the Arts
Sydney is home to some of Australia’s best art galleries and museums. Many can be found tucked away in local neighbourhoods, while others stand tall and proud in the heart of the city. Some of our favourites:
• Art Gallery of NSW
• Museum of Contemporary Art Australia (MCA)
• White Rabbit Contemporary Chinese Gallery
• The Rocks Discovery Museum
Our unique heritage
Sydney sits on the lands of the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation – visitors can hear their stories by joining an Aboriginal tour guide around the Royal Botanic Gardens, or the new Barangaroo Reserve – both easily accessible from meeting venues. An incredible opportunity to learn more about Sydney’s Indigenous history and culture, in two of the most beautiful settings in Australia.
For the love of sport
In Australia, we love sport. It’s that simple. And Sydney is where our passion and rivalry is on full show. Pick a team and cheer with the locals at a cricket, soccer (football), rugby union, rugby league, basketball or Aussie Rules (AFL) game.
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Opera on the Harbour
During March and April each year, Opera Australia takes its production outside and onto Sydney Harbour for the annual Handa Opera. Equal parts spectacular and moving, it’s an experience that imprints the memory bank for life.
The rest of the year is filled with events, concerts and shows – there’s even behind-the-scenes tours of our world-famous harbourside Opera House to learn of its story, history and incredible architecture.
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Exploring Sydney’s local neighbourhoods
Sydney is a colourful and diverse city, filled with welcoming neighbourhoods, each with its own unique energy and character.
With its rotating calendar of events and festivals, Darling Harbour captures Sydney’s exuberance, while The Rocks is where historic laneways and modern art galleries mingle side-by-side.
Beyond the city centre, Newtown and Redfern reflect our inner-creativity, while beachside Bondi and Bronte showcase the city’s breathtaking natural beauty.
Shop ‘til you drop
Sydney has designer boutiques brimming with luxury local and international labels, eclectic weekend markets, outlet tours, department stores, duty-free bargains and Australiana souvenir delights. Let’s just say, even the most discerning well-travelled shopper can get their fix here. Find out more.
