Sydney’s suburbs are home to some fantastic community celebrations, with lively street festivals bringing together food, music, markets and entertainment throughout the year. This weekend, a leafy suburb in the city’s south is preparing for a colourful takeover, with its streets transformed into a bustling outdoor festival for one day only. Jannali’s annual Moonrise Festival returns this Saturday, promising a day packed with activities for all ages. Visitors can expect food trucks, artisan stalls, live performances and plenty of family-friendly fun, with festivities spreading across the suburb’s town centre. Here’s what to expect from the event and how to plan your visit.
Jannali Moonrise Festival returns this weekend
The celebrations will unfold across two precincts, with Box Road becoming Moonrise Plaza and the nearby town centre car park turning into Sunset Square. The latter will be a hub for food and shopping, with a selection of food trucks, handmade goods from local artisans and a dedicated bar area. Local cafes, restaurants and retailers will also join the celebrations, with extended trading hours and special activities planned.
Live music will be a major part of the festival, with the lineup including local artists Summerset, Stephanie Pantazis and Rachel Tidbury, alongside First Nations musician Kevin Bennett. Visitors can also enjoy dance performances, a traditional cultural ceremony and more. There’s plenty to keep younger visitors entertained, including laser tag, glow-in-the-dark mini golf, face painting, magic shows and creative workshops. Plus, expect appearances from Bluey and Bingo, Disney princesses, a silent disco and giant bubbles.
The festival also celebrates Jannali’s Aboriginal heritage, with its name meaning place of the moon. The Sutherland Astronomical Society will offer astronomy activities and solar gazing, giving visitors a chance to explore the celestial connection behind the event’s name.
Key details
- Event: Jannali Moonrise Festival
- Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026, from 2pm to 8pm
- Location: Box Road and Jannali town centre car park, Jannali, Sydney
- Entry: Free, with some activities and food available for purchase
- Parking: Limited street parking is available nearby. Sections of the town centre car park will be closed, so public transport is recommended.
Getting there
Jannali is around a 35-minute drive south of Sydney CBD via the Princes Highway, although parking will be limited due to festival road closures. The easiest option is to catch a T4 Eastern Suburbs & Illawarra Line train from Central Station to Jannali Station, which is just a short walk from the event. Plan your travels on Transport for NSW.
