What's On in Sydney: Your Ultimate Guide for September & Beyond

As the cool days fade away, we're embracing the start of spring with visits to breezy rooftop bars and charming waterside restaurants. With Sydney buzzing with vibrant festivals and exciting events, there's no better time to explore the city.

To help you make the most of September (and beyond), we've curated the best happenings around Sydney this month.

Celebrate Spring at This High Tea With a Difference

Enjoy a gin twist on a classic high tea - a "High G&Tea", if you will - as Roku Gin pairs savoury scones and sweet treats with custom Roku Gin cocktails at Reign at The QVB. 

The special, Japanese-inspired twist on high tea to celebrate all things spring (and Roku Gin's first seasonal, limited-edition release: Roku Gin Sakura Bloom Edition) takes place on Sunday, 13 October, with a special VIP offering hosted by Roku brand ambassador James Buntin and Grandiflora founder Saskia Havekes also available, featuring an exclusive gin-tasting before the high tea begins.

All attendees will also receive a full-size bottle of the Sakura Bloom Eau De Toilette (50ml, valued at $220). This limited-edition fragrance combines Japanese distillation's craftsmanship and the artistry of floral fragrance design.

$99 per person;  $129 for the VIP offering; book your spot here

Sunday, 13th October from 2 pm 

Level 1, Queen Victoria Building

Dine at Catalina with Veuve Clicquot's New La Grande Dame Rosé 2015 

This September, Catalina Rose Bay invites you to indulge in a luxurious tribute to Veuve Clicquot’s La Grande Dame Rosé 2015, honouring female changemakers in the spirit of Madame Clicquot. Experience an exquisite pairing of this iconic champagne with a tartlet of scallop, Black River caviar, smoked celeriac, and native finger lime, crafted by Executive Chef Mark Axisa. 

$110 per person

Monday 2nd September to Monday 30th September 

Lyne Park, Rose Bay

Gin & Jazz Sundays At The Apollo

Jazz up your Sundays with The Apollo's upcoming Gin & Jazz Sundays. It doesn't get much better than a mouth-watering Greek feast with a side of live jazz and a delicious Four Pillars gin cocktail.  

$95 per person

12pm to 4pm

Sunday 29th September and Sunday 27th October

Festival of Food at The Streets of Barangaroo 

There's a new metro line in town and Barangaroo has never been a better place to hang of a weekend or post-workday. In order to celebrate the fab weather and food, Barangaroo will be hosting a month-long foodie fest packed with events. Bound to be a highlight, Spring in The Streets will offer an open-air festival vibe with plenty of live music. There will also be a range of ticketed events ranging from four-course dinners to yum-cha and whisky tasting. The full lineup of events can be viewed here. 

Tuesday 1st October to Thursday 31st October 

Barangaroo 

Celebrate Negroni Week with a $12 Tipple at Italian Street Kitchen 

Mark your calendars, because Negroni Week (September 16 - 22) is almost here, and to celebrate Italian Street Kitchen is putting this beloved drink in the spotlight. 

For the next few weeks, choose from FOUR Negroni flavours - think Classic, Hazelnut, Sbagliato and a Naked Non-Alcoholic version - for just $12 each. 

The perfect accompaniment to also enjoy the restaurant's new and improved pizza dough with two new flavours for just $20 each, or pair your cocktail with a cheeky (and decadent) Black Forest Tiramisu for $15. 

$12 Negronis are available until October 6, 2024.

Various Italian Street Kitchen locations

Discover Sydney's Secret History Whilst Enjoying a Progressive Lunch in Sydney's East 

Led by Sydney Historian Elliot Lindsay, this progressive lunch is the stuff dreams are made of. You'll make your way through three of the East's finest dining establishments, Bistro Moncur, Civico 47 and Ursula's, whilst being regaled with Paddington and Woollahra's fascinating past. Each date will offer different routes with different courses, but you can look forward to the likes of Bistro Moncur’s famed Chicken Liver Pâté with seasonal chutney and brioche, Civico 47’s go-to Mafalde pasta with king prawn, bok choy and tomato, and Ursula’s delectable Chocolate soufflé with coconut crème anglaise. The perfect date!

$315 per person, bookings can be made here 

Friday 6th September, Friday 4th October and Friday 1st November 

Multiple locations

Image Credits (Alana Dimou)

Celebrate the Glorious Rosé at Barangaroo House 

A month-long recognition of our favourite spring beverage, Rosé Rising is taking over Barangaroo House with custom rosé-themed drinks and food and plenty of pink decor. Smoke will be serving classic French Provence rosé alongside Blush and Burn shots, a Pink Sunset cocktail and petite pink snacks. 

Rekōdo will also be getting in on the action with Veuve Clicquot Rosé by the glass, pink tuna sang choy bao and strawberry fried ice cream. As for House Bar, it's all about Chandon Rosé bubbles and frosé by the harbour. 

Swing by House Bar and Smoke Thursday through Sunday for DJs from 4pm or Rekōdo from 6pm on Thursdays, 6:30pm on Fridays and 1pm Saturdays and Sundays. 

Tuesday 1st October to Thursday 31st October 

35 Barangaroo Avenue, Barangaroo

Gather Your Pals for a Cause and Host a Soiree as Part of Big Blue Table 

Beyond Blue is used by over 800 Australians every day. For those not in the know, it's a service that provides free 24/7 counselling, advice and referrals for those in need.  

What can you do to get behind and support this incredible and essential service? Host a meal and invite your friends, family and colleagues to gather and have a chinwag about mental health. You can host your table anywhere and serve up whatever you fancy. All you've got to do is register your table here. Register early and you'll receive a free host kit inclusive of decorations, conversation starters and mental wellbeing topics.   

Throughout October 

The Inner West Ale Trail is Officially a National Treasure 

The Inner West Ale Trail is a collective of 18 hyperlocal microbreweries producing some of the best beer in the country. It's officially a national treasure with funding bestowed by the NSW Government to help it flourish. We're pretty lucky here in Sydney to have such a unique spot so this weekend get out and start your journey along the trail. From '80s music bingo to live music and festivals, it's a hub for culture and a fab pick for your next night (or day!) out. 

Gather the Gals and Support a Good Cause with This Pink Afternoon Tea 

A spring afternoon tea is always a good idea and even more so when it's supporting the National Breast Cancer Foundation's vision of zero deaths with $5 from each Fullerton Pink Afternoon Tea donated towards the cause. 

So, what will you be feasting on? Pink choux featuring jasmine mousse and grapefruit curd, rose petals crafted with pistachio roulade and smoked salmon tartare ravioli. One lucky guest will even win an Australian Argyle Pink Diamon necklace valued at $2700! 

From $78 per person 

Tuesday 1st October to Thursday 31st October 

1 Martin Place, Sydney 

Catch a Movie With a View at Taronga Zoo's Harbour View Cinema

For the perfect October long weekend activity, head to Taronga Zoo's Harbour View Cinema, which is back for another year. Whether it's a springtime date night, a wholesome hang with the girls or a family-friendly activity, you can watch your favourite flick amongst the stunning grounds of Taronga Zoo with the breathtaking backdrop of the iconic Sydney Harbour. 

From Thursday 3rd October to Sunday 6th October, bring a picnic rug and enjoy a night under the stars (with 4,000 animals that call Taronga home as your companions), complete with movie snacks, sweet treats, hot food and drink -  and of course, a fan-favourite movie.

Thursday 3rd October to Sunday 6th October

Tickets from $27 (include free Zoo entry from 2pm)

Book here to ensure you don't miss out

Taronga Zoo Concert Lawn

The Rocks Markets: Wellness Edition

Always a delight, The Rocks Markets just got a whole heap lovelier with the announcement of their spring wellness weekend. The two-day event will offer a range of free experiences from mini facials and massages to nourishing taste testers. There will be workshops, free smoothies and fitness classes as well as plenty more fun events to engage in. Don't miss it! You can catch the full schedule of events here. 

Saturday 12th October to Sunday 13th October 

The Rocks 

Celebrate Spring with Sydney's Most Luxurious Super Yacht 

The Jackson, an incredibly luxe super yacht, is serving up a a bunch of lush events perfect for the warmer weather this season. The Spring-Summer series consists of six bespoke events, all designed to highlight Sydney's unparalleled harbour. We're talking Chandon harbour long lunches, New Year's Eve aboard The Jackson and chef-curated dinners. Drop this in the group chat and cue the good times. Head over here for all the event details. 

From Saturday 28th September 

Take Part in This Free 5km Run with Lorna Jane (And Score Some Freebies Whilst You're at it) 

Parkrun and Lorna Jane are teaming up this Active Nation Day to offer a free 5km run to celebrate the power of movement. A bunch of prizes will be up for grabs including Lorna Jane goodies, Polar Watches and Brooks Running shoe vouchers. Lorna Jane will also donate $1 to Women's Community Shelters for every participant. Gather your pals and kick off Saturday in the best way. 

Saturday 28th September 

North Sydney and Newy 

Check Out Luna Park's Newest Attraction: LITE BRITE 

After the great success of Sonic Neon, Luna Park is once again introducing a fun new addition. The new immersive experience, LITE BRITE: Worlds of Wonder, is a 40-minute cinematic journey that will take you through three themed worlds. Illuminated by thousands of colourful lights, you'll travel through deep ocean, dinosaur-filled rainforests and straight into the future in an experience filled with wonder and delight. 

From $12.50, tickets can be booked here 

From Saturday 17th August

1 Olympic Drive, Milsons Point 

Frolic Amongst Paper Daises at the Australian Botanic Garden Mount Anan 

Spring has sprung and so has Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan's 2000 square meters of paper daisies. A sight to behold, the daises are currently half a metre tall and guaranteed to spark joy. They're here for a good time not a long time so pencil in a trip before the season is out. 

Sunday 1st September to Sunday 13th October, 8am to 5pm 

Connections Garden, Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan

Enjoy a Coastal Meander with Sculpture by the Sea

As the most expensive time of the year approaches, free activities are even more welcome than usual. Luckily, Syndey's Sculpture by the Sea is back and it is, as always, free. More than 100 sculptures by Australian and world-renowned artists will be gracing the 2km long stretch, perfect for perusing with a coffee in hand. Make a day of it and enjoy one of Bondi's best cafes. 

Friday 18th October to Monday 4th November 

Bondi 

Sydney Ceramics Market

If even the word ceramics gets your heart beating then you'll want to pencil in the Sydney Ceramics Market. With over 120 ceramicists from NSW & ACT, it's set to be the biggest and best event yet. Dream day out. 

$6 entry 

Saturday 19th to Sunday 20th October, 10am to 5pm 

245 Wilson Street, Eveleigh 

Glebe Record Fair

Dreams really do come true. Head down to Glebe Record Fair to grab a bargain of a unicorn record from one of over 100 stalls held by both record dealers and private sellers. All genres will be represented so everyone's collection is in for a treat! 

Saturday 12th October, early bird entry 9am to 10am ($10), general admission 10am to 4pm ($5) 

Peter Forsyth Auditorium 

Horizon of Khufu: An Immersive Expedition to Ancient Egypt 

History lovers gather up. Virtual travel experts Excurio and Egyptologist Peter Der Manuelian have teamed up to craft the ultimate immersive experience. Prepare to journey back 4500 years to the Great Pyramids of Egypt via cutting-edge tech. You'll be able to explore corridors and burial chambers as well as take a boat trip on the Nile and a sunrise flight over to Giza. 

From $27, tickets available here 

Fever Pavillion, Sydney Olympic Park 

Make a Night of it with a themed Sister Act the Musical Dining Deal

Going to the theatre is a special occasion and it deserves to feel like one, too. Five-star Hotel Kimpton Margot's Luke's Kitchen agrees and has announced the perfect dining package, complete with themed cocktails, to get you on your way. Grab two courses for $55 or three for $65 and enjoy the very short walk over to Capitol Theatre afterwards. You'll get to select your favourite dishes from the menu that includes the likes of blessed beef bresaola, Mother Superior's mushroom ravioli and heavenly deep-fried ice-cream. Fancy upping the ante? Book a stay inclusive of dinner and ticket for two for just $400. 

From Monday 5th August (available Mondays and from Wednesday to Saturday) 

339 Pitt Street, Sydney 

Soak Up Spring with This Glorious Flower Festival 

After a long winter, it's time to get in the spirit of spring, soaking up blooms, picnic bites and outdoor markets. Tulip Time 2024 is combining all of these things for its annual flower fest. Head to Corbett Gardens to view over 80 000 tulips in bloom alongside other springtime blossoms. Across the three weeks, they'll be hosting a number of dedicated special celebrations including a garden party (complete with markets), a doggo day out and the very popular tulips after dark. Here, you'll be able to enjoy the illuminated gardens whilst sipping on drinks from the bar and listening to live music. 

We recommend making a day of it and exploring the charming Southern Highlands villages as well as the open gardens hosted each weekend. 

From $14 per person, tickets available here 

Thursday 12th September to Monday 30th September 

Wingecarribee Street, Bowral

Book a Winter Escape with Bannisters by the Sea

Just because it's winter doesn't mean you can't have a magical coastal sojourn. Bannisters by the Sea is offering the perfect two-night package for anyone looking to escape the mundane. 

Wake each morning to a delicious a la carte breaky before heading down to the spa to enjoy 25% off treatments of an hour or more. You can then while away the rest of the day spotting whales, popping out for beach walks and sipping a welcome cocktail and sharing a pizza at the pool bar. You can view further details and book your stay here. 

Available Sunday to Thursday until the end of September 

Frolic in Golden Fields of Canola 

For those who love a 'gram moment or are simply keen to celebrate the arrival of spring there's never been a better time to jump in the car and take a road trip to Cowra. The Canola season starts in August and extends to October and is an absolute delight to take in. There are loads of ways to soak up these golden fields from guided bus tours and sunset tours to balloon flights and even a twilight dinner in the canola. Sound like a bit of you? Head over here for more details. 

Make a Weekend of it at Floriade 

Spring is just around the corner which means Canberra's annual Floriade festival is too. Make a weekend of it and head down to the capital to celebrate the change in season. There's plenty to do with entertainment, celebrations, food, wine, workshops and market stalls onsite, on top of the incredible displays of florals. It's running for a full month so there's no excuses if you miss it! You can catch the full program here. 

Free

Saturday 14th September to Sunday 13th October, 9:30am to 5:30pm daily 

Commonwealth Park 

Looking for more fun things to do in Sydney? We have plenty to keep you entertained. From Sydney's best new degustation menus and best bottomless brunches to the best Mexican restaurants in town and where to go for a dreamy Sydney staycation, here's all you need for a weekend in the city. 

Our Sitchu editors work hard to deliver you the best products, events and venues that we hope you will love, each one is selected independently. Sitchu may receive an affiliate commission when you follow some links.