What's On This Weekend in Sydney: The Sitchu Edit

Spring is in full swing, and our stunning harbour city is buzzing with exciting things to do - perfect for whatever mood you're in.

Whether you're craving a relaxing day by the water, an adventure in nature, or a vibrant night out, there's something for everyone. From outdoor markets to scenic walks and rooftop cocktails, Sydney is bursting with springtime energy!

From Sydney Fringe Festival events, long lunches, wine bars and weekend road trips. Make the most of these warmer days! From Sydney's incredible foodie scene to cocktails with a view, this is the best of what's on in Sydney this weekend...

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

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 

Catch a Show at the Sydney Fringe Festival

The Sydney Fringe Festival is back with a bang, serving an impressive schedule of over 400 events across theatre, music, comedy, dance, visual art, and more. Attendees can explore exciting festival hubs like the Queer Hub at Qtopia and the Off Broadway Hub in Ultimo, which showcase diverse voices and performances.

The festival offers immersive experiences set against iconic Sydney locations, including a takeover of The Rocks with pop-up performances and the return of the Sydney Fringe Sideshow. The full schedule is available here. 

Sunday 1st September to Monday 30th September

Various locations across Sydney

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

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

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

Friday Plans Sorted: 170 Grammi Launches a Truly Bottomless Lunch

Yep. We're talking unlimited carbonara pizza, antipasto, marritozi and drinks for a cool $69. You've got 90 minutes to fill your tum with a menu designed weekly by owner of 170 Grammi Luigi Esposito. There will be Aperol Spritzes, a selection of wines, beer and soft drinks on tap whilst you feast on speciality and one-off dishes. The perfect way to end the week! 

$69 for 90 minutes 

12pm to 4pm every Friday

428 Crown St, Surry Hills

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

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. 

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 

Enjoy a Hearty Sunday Roast at ESQ

If you haven't yet had the chance to pop by the QVB's 1920s-inspired dining destination ESQ, you're in for a real treat. Kicking in September, they'll be doing a Sunday roast. 

Savour their signature Stone Oven Roast, and pick either chicken or leg lamb, and enjoy the trimmings of Yorkshire pudding, roasted brussel sprouts, mushrooms, carrots and chat potatoes. So hearty! So wholesome! 

Starting Sunday, September 1st from 12pm until sold out

Level 2, Queen Victoria Building, 455 George Street, Sydney 

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, which 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) until Sunday 27th October

339 Pitt Street, Sydney 

Enjoy a Meal Overlooking the Lagoon at RAFI URBNSURF 

Been hanging for your chance to check out URBNSURF? Well, we've got one more reason for you to plan a visit, stat. RAFI URBNSURF have just opened their doors and it's giving elevated dining at its best. Swing by for lunch or dinner or, better yet, pop in Wednesday to Sunday between 3pm and 6pm and you can sip your way to sunset with some fab Happy Hour deals. 

15 Hill Road, Sydney Olympic Park 

Pier One Sydney x Pottery Boy 

The collab of dreams! Pier One Sydney and Pottery Boy have teamed up to elevate Pier's Glass Room experience even further. A pop-up on Pier's luxury Balcony Suites, each room has been designed in collaboration with Guy Vadas aka Pottery Boy and decked out with his bespoke ceramic pieces.

Enjoy share plates and cocktails whilst kicking back with your favourite people in a private dining experience highlight or book as a romantic retreat and sleep out under the stars. You can even book a package inclusive of a pottery experience or a private guided ceramic class from Pottery Boy himself. Head over here for all the details on the pop-up suites. 

Thursday 23rd May to Sunday 29th September 

11 Hickson Road, Walsh Bay 

Haven't found your perfect weekend plans yet? Check out the best new restaurants openings in Sydney or our monthly guide to read about everything else that's happening this month in Sydney.