There’s something about winter that just makes you want to snuggle up and get cosy in the comfort of your home. But even in the dead of winter, Sydney knows how to put on a show so it’s worth braving the cold and wind for the spectacle. From French food and wine festivals to giant light shows, there’s heaps of wintry fun to be had in the colder months. We recommend swapping a night in front of the telly with one of these exciting winter festivals in Sydney.
1. Vivid Sydney
Vivid Sydney returns this winter complete with brilliant art installations, live performances, immersive food experiences and entertainment galore. Clear out May 26- June 16 on your social calendar and head out to the city for a guaranteed good time. Here are some exciting things to do, see and eat during Vivid Sydney 2023.
🌟 Dark Spectrum in the Wynyard Tunnels
💫 Lightscape at the Royal Botanic Garden
🤩 Written in the Stars Drone Show
2. Bastille Festival
The popular Bastille Festival returns this year from July 13-17 with French cuisine, art exhibitions and lots of mulled wine. 2023 marks its 10th anniversary so celebrations are being dialled up with 10 tons of cheese, 10,000 litres of wine, 100 vendors and 80 artists setting up shop. The festival will also expand to Circular Quay, spanning from The Rocks, The Overseas Passenger Terminal, East Circular Quay, Customs House, Quay Quarter Lanes and more this year. Read all about it here.
3. Bondi Festival
The Bondi Festival returns this year from June 30 – July 16 with heaps of family friendly fun on the cards and options for adults only. Things to look forward to include a Ferris wheel overlooking the beach, a skating rink and live entertainment every evening. Plus there’s First Nations music, and a First Nations food truck to enjoy along with drag and cabaret shows, immersive games, interactive performances and more. Get more information about it here.
4. Kiama Winter Festival
Keen to escape the rush of the city for a bit? Head down to Kiama, just 90 minutes south of Sydney for a dreamy winter festival. Highlights include ice skating under a transparent marquee by the sea, cosy igloos by the water, food trucks, light installations and entertainment on the Kiama Harbour Foreshore and Blowhole Point. The festival takes place from July 7 to July 12 for six days only so get in fast to avoid missing out. Read all about it here.
5. Darling Harbour Winter Festival
The annual Darling Harbour Winter Festival celebrates the local food and dining scene with family fun for all. This year it returns with a jam-packed schedule of activities and entertainment from June 30 to July 16. The full program will be announced soon but previous iterations have featured live entertainment by local DJs, ice skating by Cockle Bay and fireworks along with excellent food and drink options. Watch this space for updates.
6. Sydney Cherry Blossom Festival
One of Sydney’s most anticipated winter festivals has announced its dates for 2023. Auburn’s delightful Cherry Blossom Festival will return from August 19-27 with more details to come. The 9 days will feature pink cherry blossom trees also known as ‘Sakura’ in full bloom along with food trucks and live entertainment. Watch this space for updates in the coming weeks.