2024 is serving a massive lineup of events and activities in Sydney/Eora to keep your calendar absolutely loaded.
Expect a jam-packed October in Sydney with a couple of massive, multi-day arts festivals, Oktoberfest fun, and the return of Sculpture by the Sea to the coastline.
Here are Urban List's picks for the best things to do in Sydney this week, the rest of October, and further into 2024
- October 2024 Food Events And Markets
- October 2024 Art, Culture And Exhibitions
- October 2024 Music, Theatre And Film Events
October Food Events And Specials
Rosé Rising
Barangaroo House, 35 Barangaroo Avenue, Barangaroo | All month
Image credit: Barangaroo House | Supplied
Toast to spring with a free, three-level celebration of rosé taking over Barangaroo House all month. There’ll be drink and food specials on every level like the Pink Sunset cocktail (Bombay Sapphire gin, house-made rosé and rhubarb liquor, lemon, fresh raspberry garnish) at Smoke, and pink Skull Island prawn bao buns to pair with Chandon Rosé and frosé at House Bar.
You can also get in on a Rosé Rising Jukebox Bottomless brunch at Rekōdo every Saturday and Sunday with two hours of free-flowing wines and a shared menu of pink eats like smoked ocean trout on steamed mini brioche with ocean trout pearls and fried strawberry ice cream topped with rosé caramel for $99pp (with a cocktail upgrade for an addition $35pp). See the full Rosé Rising lineup and make a booking for your pick online.
$12 Paella Lunches
Deux Freres, Quay Quarter Lanes, 16 Loftus Lane | Thursdays and Fridays, 11.30am–2.30pm
Image credit: Quay Quarter Lanes | Supplied
The Quay Quarter Lanes precinct in Sydney's Circular Quay is a buzzing food and drink precinct with European laneway vibes. Every Thursday and Friday, Basque pintxos destination Deux Freres is taking over the Quay Quarter Lanes with giant pans of piping hot paella, for both takeaway and dine-in.
You can grab yourself a plate of paella for just $12—and, if you’re there on a Friday, there’s also a chance you’ll get serenaded by a traditional guitar player.
Ramen Fridays
Cho Cho San, 73 Macleay Street, Potts Point | Until 29 November
The Cho Cho San team has brought back a new take on their hugely popular ramen, featuring crispy pork gyoza and silky noodles in a chicken shoyu broth, alongside crunchy prawn katsu.
Until the end of November you can slurp to your heart’s content, with ramen available for $30 between 12pm and 3pm on Fridays—book online.
BrewDog Oktoberfest
BrewDog, Bay 1 Locomotive Workshops, South Eveleigh | Until Sunday 6 October
BrewDog is teaming up with Botany-based brewery Slow Lane to host a beer-filled Oktoberfest over two weeks. Sip on a selection of German beers on tap for a limited time including Fest Bier; a crisp and pale lager, Marzen; a rich and malty brew, and Classic Haze/Hefeweizen; a traditional wheat ale with banana and clove notes.
Pair with a hot pretzel and a few mates dressed in dirndls or lederhosen, plus any keen four-legged friends.
CandyFest High Tea
Shangri-La Sydney, 176 Cumberland Street, The Rocks | 5-6 October and 11-13 October, 11am-1pm or 2pm-4pm
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Image credit: Shangri-La | Supplied
Step into a colourful candy wonderland at Shangri-La CandyFest High Tea these school holidays. Held in the vivid Grand Ballroom, indulge in sweet treats like the rainbow swirl lollypop cheesecake and marshmallow brownie, and savoury bites like a ratatouille vegetable calzone and barramundi fish pie.
Decorations like giant gummy bears, magical unicorns, enchanted rainbows and a candy-coloured light display will fill the space, and there’ll be an interactive dessert station. Tickets are $84pp for adults and $64pp for children.
Multi-Level CBD Bistro Serving Rigatoni Al Gin And Olive Oil Gin Tarts
Jacksons On George | Wednesday 30 October On Wednesday 30 October
Image credit: Roku Gin | Supplied
Jackson’s bistro head chef, Steven Sinclair, willcraft one-hell-of a bespoke four-course menu, with each mouth-watering dish infused with Roku Gin, and three cocktails to match (naturally) which feature the new Roku Gin Sakura Bloom Edition.
In terms of what you can expect, snacks begin with a refreshing hit of Sydney Rock Oysters, drenched with Roku Gin and tonic granita—something worth smacking your lips over. From here, you’ll be able to sink into a truly epicurean appetiser with Roku Gin-cured Ora King Salmon gravlax, green apple, dessert lime and sourdough crumpet.
A crowd-favourite then rolls in, in the fine form of rigatoni al Roku Gin with fermented chilli and of course, a healthy dose of Parmigiano reggiano, all for good measure. Balance the tastebuds out with dry-aged Wollemi Duck, queen garnet plum, Roku Gin and juniper; and then fire up that nightcap with a dessert so good you’ll have dreams about it—a blood orange and Roku Gin tart pumped with crème fraîche and olive oil. Grab your tickets here.
$12 Spring Specials
Bar Planet, Centro 86 and Tio's | Until 30 November
Image credit: Centro 86 | Dexter Kim
Cossie livs-friendly cocktails, come thru. MUCHO Group—behind Bar Planet, Centro 86 and Tio’s—are coming through with drinking deals running all spring, kicking off by keeping Bar Planet's $12 Martini Mondays in the calendar through to summer.
Pitt Street margarita bar Centro 86 has launched a happy hour Tuesdays–Saturdays with $12 spicy margaritas and $7 Angel Oro lagers between 4pm and 6pm, and Surry Hills fave Tio’s is doing $12 classic margaritas all night on Wednesdays.
October Art, Culture And Exhibitions
The Other Art Fair
White Bay Cruise Terminal, 2041 James Craig Road, Rozelle | Thursday 3–Sunday 6 October
Image credit: The Other Art Fair | Facebook
Celebrate the 100th global edition of The Other Art Fair at this huge convention showcasing the works of over 120 independent artists.
There’ll be interactive installations, tattoo stations, live performances, music, and pop-up bars, with the chance to browse affordable, original artworks that have been hand selected. Entry starts at $22 and can be bought online.
Funlab Halloween Takeover
75 O'Riordan St, Alexandria | 4 October–3 November
Image credit: Funlab | Supplied
Celebrate Spooky Season as Funlab’s Alexandria precinct (Hijinx Hotel, Holey Moley, and Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq) is taken over with Halloween vibes, including a Witching Hour between 6pm and 10pm when you’ll encounter roaming ghouls, zombies and demons.
In Hijinx Hotel you might encounter spiders, skulls and eyeballs in the ball pit; there’ll be creepy installations added to the course at Holey Moley plus a Fireball takeover of the Caddyshack bar with on-theme cocktails; and ghostly abandoned laser-tag at Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq. On Halloween night, things will peak with DJs, tarot card readers, trick or treating, apple bobbing, VFX makeup and costume pop-ups. Learn more and book online for Hijinx Hotel, Holey Moley and Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq.
Sculpture By The Sea
Bondi to Tamarama Coastal Walk | Friday 18 October–Monday 4 November
Image credit: Sculpture by the Sea | Supplied
Sculpture by the Sea remains the world’s largest free outdoor sculpture exhibition, and it’s bringing more than 100 artworks to the Bondi to Tamarama stretch of Sydney’s coastline this month.
This year’s works will be from artists from 18 countries, representing global perspectives and inspiring artistic techniques in one of the world’s most beautiful natural settings. Stay tuned for more artist details.
Parramatta Lanes
Various locations, Parramatta | Wednesday 23–Saturday 26 October
Image credit: At Parramatta | Website
Enjoy four days of free fun in Sydney's west as Parramatta Lanes brings the vibes to 16 festival sites including laneways, car parks and gardens.
There'll be over 70 street food stalls; eight stages hosting more than 100 performers including DJs, pop punk, Italian hip hop, alt-rock, jazz and Bollywood; pop-up bars; and giant light and art installations to explore. See what's on and plan your visit online.
Fear Island
Cockatoo Island, Sydney Harbour | 25-27 October and 1-3 November
Image credit: Fear Island | Supplied
The ultimate Halloween nightmare returns with Fear Island transforming Cockatoo Island into a thrilling playground of blood-curdling horrors. Tickets start at $40pp, giving you access to the Haunted and Asylum tunnels, where live actors, special effects, and terrors will scare even the bravest souls.
Families can enjoy some spooky fun during daytime sessions on Saturdays from 4pm-5pm and Sundays from 2pm-3pm, but as the sun sets it is strictly 18+. Late-night sessions run from 7pm-9pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 5pm-7pm on Sundays, offering the scariest experience.
There are also food stalls, blood-bag cocktails, and makeup demonstrations on offer. You can even take part in learning Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” dance to show off on the dance floor. Get your tickets, dress up in your frightening costume and be part of the terror.
Ghost In The Rocks
Various locations | Thursday 31 October–Sunday 3 November
Image credit: Ghost in the Rocks | Supplied
Get immersed in the spirit of Halloween at this free, four-day festival in Sydney’s most haunted neighbourhood. Ghost in the Rocks will have a haunted house, scary movie screenings, a free family-friendly Halloween parade.
There’ll be loads of spine-tingling food and drink pop-ups at the The Haunted Wood (a New Orleans-inspired village with spooky wood cabins), and ticketed events include the multi-level House of Horror party with DJs throughout themed rooms, and screenings of horror classics at the Ghost Cinema. See the full Ghost in the Rocks lineup and plan your visit online.
Horizon of Khufu
Fever Pavilion, Sydney Olympic Park | Until 29 December
Image credit: Horizon of Khufu | Supplied
Horizon of Khufu is an immersive VR expedition that transports guests back 4,500 years to explore the hidden wonders of Ancient Egypt. Guests are transformed into giant avatars where they can roam the corridors and burial chambers of the Great Pyramids of Egypt, take a boat trip along the Nile River and experience a sunrise flight over Giza Necropolis.
Presented by entertainment platform Fever and virtual travel leaders Excurio, Horizon of Khufu uses cutting-edge technology and insights from Harvard Egyptologist Peter Der Manuelian to replicate intricate details, providing one of the most realistic accounts of Ancient Egypt that isn't even possible to experience in real life. The VR expedition lasts 45 minutes, with tickets starting from $27 per person. Book here.
The Friends Experience: The One In Sydney
The Fullerton Hotel, Sydney CBD | Until 16 February 2025
Image credit: The Friends Experience | Supplied
The FRIENDS Experience is finally in Sydney to celebrate the beloved show’s 30th anniversary. Fans can immerse themselves in iconic scenes like Joey and Chandler’s recliners and a full recreation of Central Perk, plus original costumes and props from the show.
Get ready to lose yourself in the unforgettable moments of Friends in this one-of-a-kind experience—Tickets start at $25.
October Music,Theatre And Film Events
Harry Mack
Roundhouse, International Road, Kensington | Sunday 6 October, 7pm
If you’ve seen freestyle rapper Harry Mack’s work, you’ll know that this show is going to involve you. Taking suggestions from his audience, Mack effortlessly improvises and weaves full-blown rap tapestries from just a few words.
His mind-blowing art has amazed a global audience, from humble busking beginnings to going viral, and freestyling for legends like Kendrick Lamar and Joey Bada$$. As Mack says, his performance style is an “energy exchange”, so bring your good vibes and immerse yourself in a performance that is definitely best enjoyed live. Tickets are $89.95.
Apex Festival
Lower Ground Town Hall, Sydney CBD | Friday 11 and Saturday 12 October
Image credit: Apex Festival | Instagram
Ensemble Apex is reinventing the way we appreciate the classics. Their track "Shostakovich Made Me Hardcore" is a great entry point into how this troupe of talented performers are bringing modernity and tradition together. And if you’re keen to see the latest instalment in how they’re redefining classical music for contemporary ears, Apex Festival is it.
The two-night immersive concert experience features contemporary classical compositions performed in unique, site-specific ways. With showcases at VIVID Sydney and Sydney Festival, plus collaborations with Phoenix Central Park and Sydney Dance Company, this up-and-coming collective is setting new standards in live performance and earning their place as emerging stars of the experimental scene. Tickets start at $60pp.
Flat Earthers: The Musical
Hayes Theatre, Potts Point | Friday 11 October–Saturday 9 November
Flat Earthers is a queer, electro-pop-infused love story that turns conspiracy theories into an irresistible songbook of silliness. The story follows Ria and Flick who are pleased to e-meet each other, and begin an online romance…until it becomes apparent that Flick is a Flat Earther.
From opposite sides of the scientific divide, there’s chaos behind the keyboard as the two navigate new love and conflicting perspectives, trying to work out if this love is simply fake news. Dust off your tin foil hat and head to the Hayes for the world premiere—we guarantee this one won’t fall flat. Tickets start at $69, with concession, ground and under-35 discounts.
Frankenstein
Theatre Royal, 108 King Street, Sydney | Until Sunday 13 October
Image credit: Frankenstein | Supplied
Classic literature gets a contemporary facelift in this stage spectacular that breathes new life into Shelley’s gothic, sci-fi masterpiece. The centuries-long reigning king of sustainability, Doctor “reduce, reuse, recycle” Frankenstein’s story will have you stepping into spooky season feeling like a whole new person.
Exploring contemporary parallels to AI (have we created a monster?) this multi-sensory spectacle is as thought-provoking as it is escapist. So pull yourself together and get set for a dynamic production that’s larger than (after)life. Tickets are available from $49.90.
Sister Act
Capitol Theatre, 13 Campbell Street, Haymarket | Until Sunday 20 October
Image credit: Sister Act | Website
Lift up your hands and sing hallelujah, the new musical adaptation of Sister Act is coming to the Capitol starring Casey Donovan, Genevieve Lemon and Rhonda Burchmore. This heaven-sent production enjoyed smash hit runs on the West End and Broadway, and we’re getting an Australian cast to take us to church with feel-good numbers that will have you dancing in the aisles.
The production has all the ingredients for a great night out. A rip-roaring score? Check. A heavenly cast? You bet. Sequins, nuns and nightclubs? I do believe we’ve found a new holy trinity. Get tickets online.
Nubya Garcia
Oxford Art Factory, 38/46 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst | Thursday 24 October
If you only have time for one gig this month, you might as well make it one that covers every genre on your playlist. Lucky for you, London-born saxophonist Nubya Garcia is ready to celebrate her newly released and highly anticipated sophomore album at Oxford Art this month.
Fusing dub, R&B, jazz and classical elements, and drawing from her Trinidad/Guyanan heritage, the eclectic and musically enigmatic artist, composer and bandleader is basically a whole Spotify Wrapped combined into one artist. We predict this live debut of her Odyssey project is going to be as epic as its namesake. Tickets are $59.
Candlelight: Best Of Bridgerton On Strings
St Stephen’s Uniting Church, 197 Macquarie Street, Sydney CBD | Thursday 24 October, Saturday 9 and 23 November, and Friday 20 December
Image credit: Fever | Supplied
To celebrate the music and magic of Bridgerton, Sydney is being treated to an exclusive Candlelight: Best of Bridgerton on Strings, sharing an enchanting night where classical-meets-contemporary music surrounded by the glow of flickering candles.
Prepare to time travel back to the Regency era of Bridgerton as you listen to the highly skilled string quartet perform modern hits. With renditions of “Bad Guy” by Bille Eilish, “thank u, next” by Ariana Grande, “Cheap Thrills” by Sia, and many more.
Get ready to relive the drama and romance of Bridgerton in one of Sydney’s most atmospheric settings. Get tickets from $40pp online.
The Ruby Revue Burlesque Show
Two80 Cabaret, 280 Cleveland Street, Surry Hills | Friday 25 October
A burlesque crown winner, a Hall-of-Famer, and an Australian champion swing dancer walk into a bar; …we don’t know the rest of the joke, but we want to be in that bar.
The long-awaited return of Ruby Revue Burlesque is a moment worth celebrating. Established in 2009, it was one of the first burlesque events to begin during the resurgence of the art form in Australia. With tease, titillation, cabaret and comedy all on the menu, food and drinks flowing all night, or a ticket package with a two-course dinner, this is a night on the town with all the trimmings. Tickets start at $39.80.
CINTA X Ella Haber
Mary’s Underground, 29 Reiby Place, Sydney CBD | Saturday 26 October
Vocal powerhouses CINTA and Ella Haber are hitting the road for a double headline tour that’s full to bursting with soul. And this month, the artists have twice the reason to celebrate, with the release of Haber’s new single "Walk On" and CINTA’s sophomore record WORTH CONTROL.
Both performers blend jazz, alternative soul and R&B into something truly impressive, with vocal and lyrical prowess that has rarely been seen since the likes of Amy Winehouse. Tickets are $34.
Titanique
The Grand Electric, Surry Hills | Until Sunday 3 November
If you’re not obsessed with Celine Dion right now, you’re not paying close enough attention. Reigniting a fanbase that never laid dormant, and exciting the generation who weren’t lucky enough to be there to love her in the '90s, this is basically Celine’s world and we’re all just living in it. And if you like wild onstage fever dreams, award-winning musicals and '90s nostalgia, then grab your life jacket and jump in.
Using Dion’s back catalogue to build a meta alternate universe where Celine Dion thinks she is on the Titanic, Titanique is unlike an iceberg, in that you won’t want to miss it.
Well-Behaved Women
Belvoir St Theatre, 25 Belvoir Street, Surry Hills | Until Sunday 3 November
It’s been said that well-behaved women seldom make history—but this production is no humourless history class. Prepare to be moved, inspired and empowered by the four incredible performers who will be singing the stories of nineteen significant historical women throughout history. It’s a catchy songbook with a seriously important message.
But there’s also ample room in this production for the funny side of things, and characters like Mary Magdelene (perhaps not traditionally known for her killer comedy chops) will have you seeing these figures in a whole new light. Tickets start at $84, with concession pricing available.
Dear Evan Hansen
Roslyn Packer Theatre, 22 Hickson Road, Walsh Bay | Sunday 12 October–Sunday 1 December
Navigating social anxiety, the minefield of mental health and the interminable awkwardness of adolescence, Evan Hansen’s life takes a turn when he finds himself smack-bang in the centre of a local tragedy.
This six-time Tony Award-winning play is a high school musical with heart. Though it’s a coming-of-age story, the desperate need to belong is not unique to the teenage experience, and anyone who gets tickets to Dear Evan Hansen will see some part of themself on stage in this deeply personal and poignant production. Tickets start at $125, with concession and under-30 pricing.
What's On In Sydney In 2024 And Beyond
Coldplay: Music Of The Spheres World Tour
Accor Stadium, Edwin Flack Avenue, Sydney Olympic Park | Wednesday 6 and Thursday 7 November
Image credit: Coldplay | Anna Lee Media
Coldplay has just confirmed stadium shows in Sydney, Melbourne and Auckland for their record-breaking world tour which has electrified audiences in their sell-out shows in Perth, Tokyo, Kaohsiung and Jakarta. The band will be performing in Sydney at Accor Stadium on Wednesday 6 November 6 and Thursday 7 November, 2024.
Since the first Music Of The Spheres World Tour date in March 2022, the band have sold over nine million tickets—the most for any tour over the last two years. Register for presale tickets from 10am on Wednesday, 29 November here, or add 10am on 1 December to your calendar for general sale.
Wine Island
Sydney Harbour National Park Gap Bluff, 27 Miltary Road, Watsons Bay | 29 November–1 December
Image credit: Wine Island | Instagram
If you are up for sipping on some great wines, catching up with friends, and soaking in the Sydney Harbours views, then check out Wine Island. The event features only the best wines from top wineries like Kies Family Wines and Chateau Tanunda, plus more drinks from Papa Salt, and more.
Guests can enjoy the Amalfi Beach Club where you can relax in beach-inspired comfy loungers, and the Flavour Fiesta dining precinct offering a range of mouthwatering options from food vendors to satisfy your cravings. There are also group activities like pottery workshops and silent discos.
Tickets are on sale, starting at $80 for general admission and $189 for VIP, which includes access to a private area, exclusive wine tastings, Greek BBQ feast, and an Oyster & Yarra Valley Caviar bar.
Now, fill your calendar with
Main image credit: Sculpture by the Sea | Jarrad Seng
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