What’s on in Sydney Guide for the week Friday 16 January – 23 January

Sydney Event Guide: Friday 16 Jan – 23 Jan 2026

*Compiled by the Editor using Gemini AI /Posted Friday 16 January

Welcome to your guide for a vibrant summer week in Sydney. Whether you are seeking high-culture arts, fresh providore markets, or engaging school holiday activities for the family, this week offers a rich tapestry of experiences across the harbor and city precincts.

The Grand Stage: Opera & Symphony (Jan 16–23)

This week marks a significant milestone as Opera Australia celebrates its 70th Anniversary, and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra (SSO) takes to the outdoors for one of the city’s most beloved traditions.

High-End Highlights 

• GATSBY at the Green Light (The Studio)

  • When: Daily (e.g., Fri 16 Jan, 6:15 PM & 8:45 PM)

  • The Vibe: An immersive 1920s “speakeasy” experience within the Opera House. Seated at cabaret tables, guests enjoy world-class aerialists, tap dancers, and soulful vocals.

• Badu Gili: Story Keepers

  • When: Daily at Sunset and 9:00 PM

  • Details: A free nightly projection on the Opera House sails celebrating First Nations culture—the perfect prelude to a late dinner at Bennelong or Quay.

Arts & Culture (Sydney Festival Focus)

Sydney is currently in the heart of its festival season, with world-class performances and immersive installations.

• Emma Donovan: Soul classics

  • When: Friday 16 Jan, 8:00 PM

  • Where: City Recital Hall

  • Details: Gumbaynggirr and Noongar icon Emma Donovan reimagines the soul classics that shaped her musical journey.

• WAKE (Carriageworks)

  • When: 16, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23 Jan

  • Where: Carriageworks, Eveleigh (Bay 17)

  • Details: A powerful and immersive theatrical event that serves as a highlight of the 2026 Sydney Festival program.

• Christopher Kulendran Thomas: Safe Zone

  • When: Daily from 16 Jan

  • Where: Various City Locations

  • Details: An experimental blend of painting, AI, and television exploring global aftermaths.

• Raf-Saperra

  • When: Friday 23 Jan, 8:00 PM

  • Where: City Recital Hall

  • Details: A fusion of Punjabi folk, pop, and rap to close out the week with high energy.

The Rocks, Darling Harbour & Barangaroo

These harbor precincts are the epicenter of summer activity, combining outdoor cinema with heritage charm.

Markets & Providores

For the finest local produce and artisan crafts, these markets are essential weekend stops.

• Carriageworks Farmers Market

  • When: Saturday 17 Jan (8:00 AM – 1:00 PM)

  • Where: 245 Wilson St, Eveleigh

  • The Vibe: Sydney’s premier market for seasonal produce, organic meats, and artisan breads.

• The Rocks Markets

  • When: Saturday 17 Jan & Sunday 18 Jan (10:00 AM – 5:00 PM)

  • The Vibe: Curated stalls featuring local fashion, handmade jewelry, and diverse street food (paella, crepes, and artisan chocolate).

• Barangaroo Markets

  • When: Friday 16 Jan

  • The Vibe: Artisan gifts and food stalls, perfect for wrapping up the work week by the water.

 Museums & Libraries

• State Library of NSW: Drop-in for “Family Tours” of the Mitchell Building (19–23 Jan) and visit the The Curious World of Pamela Allen exhibition.

• Art Gallery of NSW: Mike Hewson: The Key’s Under the Mat—an underground “art park” specifically designed for families to explore.

• Australian Museum: Wansolmoana Kids: Pasifika Printmaking Workshop (17 Jan) and the immersive Burrasensory journey.

• Museum of Sydney: Features the Dig It! archaeology exhibition and First Fleet Ships permanent display.

 Children’s School Holiday Highlights

• SpongeBob Underworld Adventure: At SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium (Daily).

• Nature Photography Workshop: For kids at the Australian Museum (Friday 16 Jan).

• Plant Explorer Scavenger Hunt: Daily at the Chinese Garden of Friendship until 16 Jan.

• The Wind in the Willows: The classic outdoor theatre performance at the Royal Botanic Garden (Daily until 25 Jan).

• Waterworld Central: Inflatable water park at the Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park.

Children’s Creative Culture: School Holidays at the House

The Opera House isn’t just for the adults this week; the Centre for Creativity is the hub for younger visitors.

• TOO~B (A Free Play Space):

  • Ages: 0–12 | Daily until 23 Jan

  • Details: An interactive, sensory play space created by artist Hossei. It’s touchable, wearable art designed for little hands.

• Rothar (Physical Theatre):

  • Ages: 4+ | 14–18 January

  • Details: A joyful production from Ireland where a bicycle repair shop becomes a world of imagination.

• Kids Paint & Sip: