The long weekend might be behind us, but in true Secret Sydney style, we’re already looking ahead to the next weekend – so we’re here with brand new ideas to help you make the most of it. Highlights for the weekend of October 6-8 include the final stretches of some brilliant spring festivals, a carnival of Latin American culture and food, Sydney’s outdoor concert season reaching its crescendo, and much more. If you’re looking to get out and about and take advantage of everything that’s on offer in Sydney, check out our weekend guide below.
1. Samba on down to Sydney’s brilliant Latin American festival
Taking over the Greenwood Hotel on October 7, Ritmo Latino is a one-day celebration of Latin American food, music, and culture that brings the colour and conviviality of the continent to Sydney. With dance classes led by Latin Dance Australia, musical guests such as Club Havana Band and La Trope Vallenata, and food trucks specialising in the likes of Colombian, Brazilian, and Mexican cuisine, you’re in for a top day out. Round up tus amigos and book your tickets here for this sensational soiree before they sell out.
2. Catch the final weekend of outdoor concerts with Night at the Barracks
Night at the Barracks is back for another season of dreamy outdoor music concerts. From Hoodoo Gurus, Missy Higgins and Tina Arena, a number of incredible artists are set to perform from September 15 to October 8. Don’t miss out, grab your tickets here before the series reaches its finale.
3. Enjoy a swim in Parramatta’s new Aquatic Centre
Parramatta’s long-awaited Aquatic Centre has finally opened its doors and just in time if you’re looking to beat the heat this summer. There’s a lot on offer including four pools, a fitness centre, cafes, creche services and more. Read all about it here.
4. Hunt for cherry blossoms in the city
There’s a very short window to enjoy cherry blossoms around Sydney, and it’s almost over, so don’t miss out. From the Auburn Botanic Gardens to Royal Botanic Gardens and more, check out the best spots to get your fill of these pretty pink flowers with our cherry blossom guide.
5. Attend an authentic Spanish Flamenco show
Culture up and enjoy an authentic Spanish Flamenco Show courtesy of The Royal Opera of Madrid on October 6 & 7. Celebrated flamenco dancer Paula Rodríguez will perform live at the Seymour Centre and the Hayden Orpheum, but if you miss out this weekend, you won’t get a second chance… Tickets are selling out fast, grab yours here.
6. Head out of town for Floriade festival
Australia’s biggest celebration of spring has taken over Canberra, but Floriade comes to an end on October 15. It showcases over 1 million blooming flowers, alongside entertainment, food and wine, workshops, and market stalls, and you’ll only get so many bites of the apple before it winds down. Get all the details and tickets information here.
7. Buy something unique at the markets in Glebe
Warmer weather is the perfect excuse to mosey down to the popular weekend markets in Glebe. Held every Saturday from 10am to 4pm with fresh produce, food, homewares, beauty, craft and designer products on offer. Enjoy a lazy stroll and find something special at this buzzy weekend spot. Get more info here.
8. Check out Candyland at The Grounds
The Grounds’ latest activation is extra sweet and colourful with giant lollipop towers, exploring glowing neons, cupcakes and even a giant gumball machine. There’s also themed food and drink and some super Instagrammable elements to enjoy. Check it out here.
9. See this picture-perfect floral display
The Australian Botanic Garden in Mount Annan is in full bloom this spring with thousands of paper daisies on display. If you can’t get enough of flowers, drive out to see pink, yellow and white flowers at the foot of the Connections Garden museum. It’s free to visit and you can also attend a guided tour every Friday. Get the details here.
10. Grab breakfast with koalas
Wild Life Sydney Zoo has brought back its popular Breakfast with the Koalas event and it’s the cutest way to kickstart your day. Guests can look forward to a guided highlights tour of the zoo followed by a delicious breakfast surrounded by cute animals. Find more details and book your spot here.
11. Get charmed by the Beauty And The Beast Musical
The all-Australian cast for Beauty and the Beast includes Shubshri Kandiah as Belle and Brendan Xavier as Beast and it’s full of storybook nostalgia, spectacular sets and costumes and excellent performances. Head here for more.
12. Have a cheeky night out at Blanc de Blanc Encore
Blanc de Blanc features acrobats, cabaret and heaps of cheeky fun. The adults-only experience will transport you to 1920s Paris with an indulgent dose of acrobatic artistry and risqué revelry. Grab your tickets here.
13. Enjoy an elegant high tea
If you’re looking to spend some quality time with friends or family over the weekend, check out our list of best high teas in Sydney. It’s the perfect excuse to hit pause while nibbling on delicate sandwiches and sipping tea.
14. Head to the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition
If you’re a photography fan, head down to the Australian National Maritime Museum in Darling Harbour stat. Discover Over 100 exemplary images covering a range of topics from animals to nature and landscapes and explore the beauty of our world like never before until October 31.
15. See the smash hit musical Wicked
Wicked the Musical has flown back to Australia for its big 20th anniversary and you can catch a show at the Sydney Lyric Theatre this month. A prequel to The Wizard of Oz, Wicked is one of Broadway’s biggest blockbusters and the recipient of over 100 major awards. Don’t miss out, grab your tickets here.
16. Attend a Turkish mosaic lamp workshop
Want to do something fun and creative this weekend? Join the experts at Art Masterclass and learn the art of making traditional Turkish mosaic lamps. Guests will also be treated to delicious Turkish tea, a selection of delectable treats and homemade Turkish shortbread during the workshop. Learn more and grab your tickets.
17. Have fun at this insane challenge room hotel
The Hijinx Hotel is a unique entertainment concept that is not only a first for Sydney and Australia but also a world exclusive. Make the most of this weekend and check out their 15 whacky challenge rooms, themed bars and immersive spaces for a grand time with family and friends.
18. Go whale watching in Sydney
Every year, more than 40,000 humpback and southern right whales make their way along Sydney’s coastline as they migrate from Antarctica to the Pacific and if you’re lucky you can catch a glimpse up close. Check out all the spots to see whales in Sydney from Palm Beach to Watson’s Bay and more.
19. Check out the Atmospheric Memory exhibition
Atmospheric Memory is a stunning exhibition at Powerhouse Ultimo. The giant artwork will feature cutting-edge technology where visitors will be able to see their voice travel in a ripple tank and walk through clouds of text written in mid-air. Read all about it here.
20. Enjoy an evening of champagne and magic
A Magical Soirée, by Bruce Glen combines fantastic stories with fascinating magic tricks to leave audiences in awe and wonder inside a heritage building. Grab your tickets. here