Sydney Times -What’s On This Week Guide (July 31 – August 7, 2025)
As winter truly settles in, Sydney continues to buzz with a fantastic array of events, from cultural feasts and artistic showcases to thrilling performances and family-friendly fun. Here’s your comprehensive guide to making the most of your week in the Harbour City.
Lifestyle & Markets: A Taste of Europe and Local Finds
Le Marché – French Markets (Entertainment Quarter): Sunday, August 3rd Bonjour, Sydney! Get ready to spend a leisurely Sunday morning in France without the jet lag at our fabulous French markets. Le Marché takes over the Entertainment Quarter, transforming the Market Canopy into a vibrant celebration of French culture, cuisine, and craftsmanship. You can say bonjour to over 45 talented French vendors selling everything from raclette and rillettes to choux buns and Champagne. Stock up on farm-fresh eggs, truffles, duck confit, and, of course, all the French cheeses your heart desires. Browse artisanal crafts like striped Breton t-shirts and colourful berets, and refuel at hot food stalls serving buttery escargots and boeuf bourguignon. It’s a full cultural experience, complete with live music and the lively spirit of a French village market.
Orange Winter Fire Festival (Orange Region): August 1st – 10th While a short drive from Sydney, this regional highlight is well worth the trip. The Orange Winter Fire Festival is back, showcasing local creatives in a 10-day program of art, music, and culinary delights. Expect food highlights like ‘The Alchemy of Earth, Fire, Food and Wine’ in Molong, magical ‘Ember Feast at the Orchard’ with live music, and hands-on cooking classes. There’s also silver jewellery making, ceramics workshops, and plenty of campfire-style live music to cosy up to.
Barangaroo You Wellness Month (Barangaroo): Kicking off August 1st Prioritise your wellbeing this month at Barangaroo! “Barangaroo You Wellness Month” launches on Friday, August 1st, offering a fantastic line-up of free activities centred around health, movement, and mindfulness. From soothing sound baths to energising HYROX-style training sessions, there’s something for everyone. Plus, keep an eye out for giveaways of 20 free Scandi-style sauna sessions.
Sydney’s Premier Markets: Explore Local Flavours & Finds
Sydney boasts a diverse array of markets, each offering a unique experience for fresh produce, artisanal goods, fashion, and delectable street food. Here are some of the best to explore this week:
- Carriageworks Farmers Market (Eveleigh): Every Saturday, 8 AM – 1 PM Located in the impressive industrial setting of Carriageworks, this market is a beloved institution for discerning food enthusiasts. Curated by acclaimed chef Mike McEnearney, the market adheres to a strict charter to ensure quality and a direct connection to growers and producers across NSW. You’ll find an abundance of farm-fresh seasonal fruit and vegetables, organic pasta, free-range meats, artisan cheeses, freshly baked goods, and even local wines. It’s an all-weather venue, making it a perfect Saturday morning outing rain or shine. Getting there: Easily accessible by train (Redfern, Macdonaldtown, Newtown stations) or various bus routes.
- Paddington Markets (Paddington): Every Saturday, 10 AM – 4 PM (Growers Market from 9 AM – 3 PM) Established in 1973 as a mission initiative of Paddington Uniting Church, Paddington Markets is one of Sydney’s most iconic and longest-running markets. With over 150 unique stalls, it’s a treasure trove for creative fashion and accessories from local designers, handmade jewellery, unique homewares, soaps, candles, and inspiring art. The market fosters a vibrant community atmosphere, encouraging local artists and small businesses. Grab a coffee and lunch from the international food court and relax under the trees. Located at 395 Oxford Street, Paddington. Well-served by buses along Oxford Street.
- Chinatown Friday Night Markets (Haymarket): Every Friday, 4 PM – 11 PM Immerse yourself in the bustling energy of Sydney’s Chinatown at its famous Friday Night Markets. This vibrant late-night hotspot on Dixon Street Mall showcases local designers and a mouth-watering array of Asian street food. It’s a culinary journey through Asia without leaving the city, with stalls offering everything from Hong Kong yum cha and Japanese teppanyaki to Vietnamese pho and Korean street snacks. Beyond the food, you’ll find over 50 stalls by young designers and artists with Asian heritage, selling unique jewellery, clothing, arts, and crafts. Located on Dixon Street Mall, Haymarket. Easily accessible via public transport to Central or Town Hall stations.
- Kirribilli Markets (Milsons Point): 1st & 2nd Sunday, and 4th Saturday of the month, 8:30 AM – 3 PM A true Sydney institution, the Kirribilli Markets offer stunning harbour views as you browse. This dynamic market is known for its diverse offerings. While the “General & Fashion Market” (4th Saturday) features new and second-hand fashion, antiques, collectables, and homewares, the “Art, Design & Fashion Market” (1st & 2nd Sunday) has a vibrant atmosphere with a focus on artisan-made products in the Burton Street tunnel, alongside fashion stalls in the Green and Gravel areas. Expect unique pieces, delicious food, and a lively buzz. Located at Bradfield Park, Cnr Alfred and Burton Streets, Milsons Point. Conveniently located near Milsons Point train station.
- Rozelle Collectors Market (Rozelle): Every Saturday & Sunday, 9 AM – 3 PM For the ultimate treasure hunt, head to the Rozelle Collectors Market. Set in the grounds of Rozelle Public School, this market is a haven for lovers of all things vintage, antique, and pre-loved. Browse over 100 stalls offering unique bric-a-brac, retro items, furniture, vintage clothing, and collectables. It has a charming “garage sale” vibe but with a curated selection of quality items, some from long-standing vendors. You’ll also find quirky new designs, jewellery, and local food vendors. Live buskers often add to the vibrant atmosphere. Located at 663 Darling Street, Rozelle. Easily accessible by bus.
- Bondi Markets (Bondi Beach): Every Sunday, 10 AM – 4 PM Soak up the iconic Bondi Beach atmosphere while Browse for unique finds. Established in 1993, the Bondi Markets are held in the beachfront grounds of Bondi Beach Public School. Here, you’ll discover original designer clothing, exotic imports, handmade jewellery, arts, crafts, homewares, retro furniture, and an array of vintage clothes. It’s a fantastic spot to discover up-and-coming designers and mix with locals. On the first Sunday of every month, they also host a special Vintage & Pre-Loved pop-up alongside the regular market. Located at Bondi Beach Public School, Campbell Parade. Best accessed by bus to Bondi Beach.
Film Festivals: A Global Cinematic Journey
- Hurtigruten Scandinavian Film Festival (Palace Cinemas): Continues until August 10th Winter is the perfect time for a cinematic escape, and the Hurtigruten Scandinavian Film Festival delivers just that! This festival showcases the best new cinema from the Nordic region, featuring a diverse program of dramas, comedies, and thought-provoking films. Check the Palace Cinemas website for the full schedule and session times across their Sydney venues (e.g., Palace Norton Street, Palace Central).
- Korean Film Festival in Australia (KOFFIA) (Event Cinemas George Street): August 21st – 26th (Pre-festival buzz this week!) While the main festival kicks off later in August, the excitement is building for the 16th Korean Film Festival in Australia (KOFFIA). This festival promises a vibrant collection of Korean films, from heartfelt dramas and laugh-out-loud comedies to edge-of-your-seat thrillers and tender romances. Keep an eye out for early bird tickets and program announcements this week for films screening later in the month at Event Cinemas George Street.
Arts & Culture: Exhibitions and Captivating Performances
Archibald, Wynne and Sulman Prizes 2025 (Art Gallery of NSW): Until August 17th Australia’s most prestigious art event continues to draw crowds. Head to the Art Gallery of NSW to witness a fresh batch of painterly expressions, including the Packing Room Prize winner, Abdul Abdullah’s striking portrait of Jason Phu.
Wildlife Photographer of the Year (Various Galleries): Until October 19th Immerse yourself in the stunning beauty and urgent conservation needs of our planet through breathtaking nature photography. Check local gallery listings for specific Sydney locations hosting this acclaimed exhibition.
Venchi Chocolate Tasting Experience (The Galeries): Until August 6th For those with a sweet tooth, indulge in a unique dark chocolate tasting experience. Learn to unpack the complex layers of nine different dark chocolates, perfectly paired with gourmet delights like dried fruits and nuts.
Theatre & Opera: On Stage This Week
Sydney Opera House – Theatre & Opera Highlights:
- The Play That Goes Wrong (Drama Theatre, Sydney Opera House): Until August 3rd Don’t miss the final performances of this critically acclaimed, hilariously chaotic comedy! If you need a night of side-splitting laughter as everything on stage goes spectacularly wrong, this is the show for you.
- The Marriage of Figaro (Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House): From July 31st – August 27th Opera Australia presents Mozart’s comedic masterpiece. A chaotic whirlwind of mistaken identities makes the wedding day of Figaro and Susanna a lesson in hilarity. This witty, fast-moving opera with hum-along melodies is a delightful experience.
- Rusalka (Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House): Until August 11th Starring the magnificent Australian soprano Nicole Car, this enchanting opera tells the story of a water nymph who longs to live and love as a human. Prepare for a powerful and moving performance.
- Jackson Aces – Beyond Possible (Playhouse, Sydney Opera House): Until August 3rd Prepare to be amazed! Magician Jackson Aces brings his captivating show to the Playhouse for its final performances this week. Expect illusions and feats that will leave you questioning reality.
- Javier Perianes performs Saint-Saëns (Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House): Until August 2nd Experience an evening of sublime classical music as Javier Perianes performs Saint-Saëns, showcasing the beauty and power of the grand piano in the iconic Concert Hall.
Other Key Theatre Performances:
- “Hedwig and the Angry Inch” (Eveleigh): Until August 3rd Catch the final days of this critically acclaimed musical, lauded for its powerful performances and compelling story. Don’t miss your chance to see this highly recommended show before it closes.
- “The Book of Mormon” (Haymarket): Ongoing The hilarious and often outrageous Broadway hit continues its run in Sydney. A must-see for musical theatre fans looking for a night of laughter and satirical brilliance.
- Circle Mirror Transformation (Wharf 1 Theatre, Sydney Theatre Company): Until September 7th Sydney Theatre Company presents Annie Baker’s acclaimed play, a poignant comedy about an amateur acting class. Dive into the subtle dynamics and personal revelations that unfold over six weeks of community theatre. This show is lauded for its understated brilliance and relatable characters.
- IMAGINE LIVE (Seymour Centre): July 31st – August 1st The Seymour Centre presents “IMAGINE LIVE,” an educational and inspiring event. Check their website for specific details on this program, which often combines performance with learning experiences.
Live Music & Entertainment: From Indie to Pop
Dope Lemon (Enmore Theatre): Thursday, July 31st Indie-alternative fans, prepare for a captivating night as Dope Lemon takes the stage at the iconic Enmore Theatre.
Chocolate Starfish Performs Bat Out of Hell – The Return with Strings Attached: Friday, August 1st Experience a classic rock tribute with a twist as Chocolate Starfish brings their “Bat Out of Hell” show, complete with strings, to Sydney.
Jeremy Piven Live (Sydney): Saturday, August 2nd Catch acclaimed actor and comedian Jeremy Piven as he brings his live show to Sydney this August.
KOYOTE – Live in Sydney! (Sydney): Sunday, August 3rd Fans of K-Pop, get ready! Koyote, one of Korea’s legendary pop groups, will be performing live in Sydney.
Jazz Sessions in The Rocks: Ongoing Enjoy the soulful sounds of jazz in the historic Rocks precinct. Check local venues for schedules.
Family Fun: Something for All Ages
Le Marché French Markets (Entertainment Quarter): Sunday, August 3rd Beyond the gourmet delights, Le Marché offers a fantastic family atmosphere with live entertainment and plenty of space for kids (and dogs!) to enjoy.
Ballet Classes for Little Ones (Various Locations): Ongoing Introduce your tiny dancers to the world of ballet with classes designed for children aged 1.5-8 years, focusing on fundamentals in a fun and relaxed environment. Check listings for locations like Glebe and The Rocks.
Storytime and Rhymetime at Local Libraries: Ongoing Local libraries across Sydney offer engaging storytime and rhymetime sessions for preschoolers, combining stories, rhymes, and singing. Check your local library’s schedule for details.
Guided Walks at Royal Botanic Garden: Ongoing Take a leisurely 1.5-hour stroll through the beautiful Royal Botanic Garden with a guided walk, perfect for families to explore nature.
Sydney is truly vibrant this week, offering something for every interest and age. Be sure to check individual venue websites for specific times, ticketing information, and any last-minute changes. Enjoy your week in our magnificent city!
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