The days are still long and warm, and as is befitting of our more hospitable weather, there is no shortage of things to do in Sydney this weekend. So whether your perfect weekend is spent browsing the local markets, diving into an epic new immersive experience, or getting out into nature and exploring the best Sydney has to offer, we’ve got you covered. Here are the most fun things to do in Sydney this weekend, spanning the city from Bondi to Parramatta and everywhere in between.
The best things to do in Sydney this weekend
1. Take a 3.5-billion-year VR journey through time
Ever wondered what life on Earth was like before humans? What would it have been like to roam with dinosaurs? And how did the earliest humans live? All these questions and more can be explored at Life Chronicles, an incredible new VR experience that takes you back literally billions of years to bring the wonders of evolution to life through cutting-edge visuals, sound design, and scientific accuracy. Find out more – and get your tickets – here.
2. Celebrate St Patrick’s Day at The Rocks
The Rocks is hosting a giant St Patrick’s Day celebration this weekend. Head down to Martin Place for the vibrant St Patrick’s Day parade on Sunday, March 16 at 11am. Plus, expect traditional Irish dance performances and live bands at First Fleet Park and Tallawoladah Lawn, family-friendly workshops, face painting and much more fun. Find more details here.
3. Enjoy a feast at Lakemba Nights
The Ramadan Night Markets have returned with over 60 food stalls offering delicious bites from places like Indonesia, Burma, India, Lebanon, and more. You can check it out from 6pm to 2am until Sunday, March 30, just a short walk from Lakemba Station. Find all the details here.
4. Jam out to a sunset session at Cockatoo Island
Sunset Sessions is back at Cockatoo Island, bringing live music by the harbour for another unforgettable summer season. This beloved outdoor event is back on the lawns of the historic Biloela House, showcasing local Australian talent. Don’t miss performances by Magickal Ms G and Ella Haber this weekend on Saturday, March 15 at 6.45pm. Find ticket info and more details here.
5. Get your tickets for MJ the Musical
Inspired by Jackson’s legendary 1992 Dangerous World Tour, this Tony Award-winning MJ the Musical is now playing at the Sydney Lyric Theatre for a limited time only. Revisit some of the biggest hits from Michael Jackson’s career in this electrifying production. Get your tickets here.
6. Explore the wonders of Machu Picchu at this new exhibition
Venture into the heart of one of the world’s most awe-inspiring civilisations at a landmark exhibition at the Australian Museum. Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru is a one-of-a-kind experience that will take you deep into the heart of the historic Incan citadel showcasing over 130 stunning artefacts, from intricately designed pottery and textiles to royal tombs, funerary objects and more. Find out more — and get your tickets — here.
7. Watch a movie under the stars
Summer in Sydney means outdoor cinemas, and there are plenty dotted around town. Following its successful debut last summer, Mov’In Bed Cinema has returned to Barangaroo, turning Harbour Park into a fully fledged city beach with 280 tons of white sand and 160 queen- and king-sized beds, complete with pillows and blankets. For views, it’s hard to go past the Westpac Openair Cinema, which has taken over Mrs Macquaries Point and this year features excellent food and drink options by the likes of Luke Nguyen, Danielle Alvarez and Scott McComas-Williams. Finally, the beloved Moonlight Cinema has returned to Centennial Parklands for its 29th edition, with a program of classic films and exciting new releases, all screened outdoors under the stars — find out more about it here.
8. Test yourself at this immersive Squid Game experience
You held your breath while binging the lockdown-era Netflix smash hit, and now it’s your turn to face the Front Man as you’re transported into the high-stakes world of Squid Game. This new experience, which has just opened at Luna Park, recreates the intense atmosphere of the series through a series of meticulously designed challenges that test your reflexes, wits, and teamwork as you relive some of the series’ most memorable (and dreaded) games, including Red Light, Green Light, the strategic Marbles, and the nerve-wracking Glass Bridge. Are you ready to play? Head here to book your ticket.
9. Explore a futuristic cyber exhibition at AGNSW
This summer, the Art Gallery of New South Wales hosts the first major solo exhibition in Australia by renowned Chinese contemporary artist Cao Fei. Cao Fei: My City is Yours (曹斐: 欢迎登陆) is a Sydney-exclusive exhibition that explores China’s rapid urban, technological, and social changes from the Y2K era to today, with an exciting mix of photography, video games, virtual reality, and immersive installations. Book your tickets here.
10. Check out the free summer events at The Rocks
The Rocks has launched a fabulous and free activities program for summer that includes everything from free movies under the stars to run clubs and more. Weekend activities include free Yoga Under the Bridge, The Rocks’ open-air markets and a breezy picnic by the water.
11. Journey to Ancient Egypt at Horizon of Khufu
An incredible VR experience in Sydney promises to transport guests to Ancient Egypt. Through the immersive Horizon of Khufu experience, guests discover the Great Pyramid of Giza, the Sphinx and more up close, and in seriously stunning detail. Educational and inspiring in equal measure, it’s one of our top things to do in Sydney this weekend Get your tickets here.
12. Catch a cheeky performance of Marvelous the Show
See your favourite Marvel heroes like never before in the risque parody production Marvelous the Show. Featuring epic stunts, aerial performances, and foot thumping soundtrack, it’s the perfect treat for fans and non-fans alike. The show is playing at Riverside Parramatta Riverside Theatres from March 14 to 22 for a limited time only. Get your tickets here.
13. Catch Hadestown at the Theatre Royal
The award-winning Broadway phenomenon, Hadestown, has finally made its debut in Sydney. Created by singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell and visionary director Rachel Chavkin, this celebrated musical offers a bold retelling of the ancient Greek legend of Orpheus and Eurydice, redefining theatre as we know it. Get your tickets here.
14. Experience a slice of Paris at The Grounds
The Grounds of Alexandria’s latest Parisian-inspired activation features a dazzling Eiffel Tower, thousands of pink and red roses, indulgent mocktails, and delicious desserts, all inspired by the artwork of Australian illustrator Megan Hess. Read all about it here.
15. Explore the Sydney Harbour National Park
One of the most visited national parks in NSW is right here in the heart of Sydney and it’s the perfect weekend adventure. The Sydney Harbour National Park protects the islands and foreshore around the harbour and offers hidden beaches, lookouts, swimming spots, and excellent walking trails. Read all about it here.
16. Check out NSW’s newest coastal walk
The new 20km Southern Headlands Walk is the newest coastal adventure in NSW and well worth a drive out of town. Spanning from Narrawallee to Burrill Lake, this beautiful route showcases everything from secluded beaches to quaint towns, charming shops and more. Read all about it here.
17. Have an ext-roar-dinary time at Dinos Alive
The Dinos Alive exhibit promises a roaring good time for all. Explore life-sized animatronic dinosaurs, and engaging displays and learn more about the age of dinosaurs in this interactive experience. The exhibition also includes a VR experience that will transport you to a time when these magnificent creatures roamed the earth. Get your tickets here.
18. Discover the Bouddi Coastal Walk
The 8km Bouddi Coastal Walk is considered one of NSW’s finest, leading to secluded beaches, shipwrecks, vibrant wildflowers, and seriously scenic views. It’s also an excellent day trip option from Sydney, just 1.5 hours away. Make the most of the last few days of summer and plan a visit here.
19. Feel the magic at this sultry stage show
Fire up the group chat and book your spot for an unforgettable night out with Australia’s top-rated male revue, Magic Men. This electrifying two-hour show features some of Sydney’s hottest hunks, known for their incredible moves and equally impressive physiques. If you’re in the mood for a heart-pounding night out that promises pure entertainment, this is the weekend event for you. Find out more — and book your tickets — here.
20. Plan a trip out of town to Robertson
Robertson may not be as famous as its neighbours Berry and Bowral but it has plenty to offer day-trippers. The small town is home to the Big Potato, quality bakeries, pie shops, and some of NSW’s waterfalls. Even better, it’s less than a 2-hour drive from Sydney. Read our full guide to the town here.