What’s on in Sydney this week Guide for Friday 13 february to 20 february
Programme compiled using News Aggregator/Posted Friday 13 February,2026
Welcome to your curated guide for a spectacular week in Sydney. Whether you’re looking for romance, celebrating the Year of the Horse, or soaking up the start of the Mardi Gras season, the city is pulsing with energy.
*This guide for The Sydney Times provides the most comprehensive look at the city’s pulse for the week of Friday, 13 February to Thursday, 19 February 2026.
🎨 Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) & Major Arts
Located at Tallawoladah, 140 George St, The Rocks, the MCA is the cornerstone of the Circular Quay arts precinct.
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Major Exhibition: Data Dreams: Art and AI
A groundbreaking look at the intersection of creativity and technology. Part of the Sydney International Art Series.
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MCA Late (Thu 19 Feb): The museum stays open until 9 pm. Enjoy drop-in drawing, cocktails on the rooftop terrace, and the best harbor views in the city.
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Thomas J. Price: Ancient Feelings
Look for the monumental public sculpture on the Tallawoladah Lawn out front—perfect for a sunset photo.
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Ron Mueck: Encounter
Location: Art Gallery of NSW (Naala Nura), Art Gallery Rd, Sydney.
The largest collection of his hyper-realistic figures ever seen in Australia.
🐉 Lunar New Year: Year of the Horse
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Sydney Lunar Streets (Sat 14 Feb):
Location: Haymarket (Dixon St, Sussex St, and Hay St).
The heart of Chinatown becomes a pedestrian-only festival from 5 pm – 10 pm with lion dances and food stalls.
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Jetpack Lion Dancing & Fireworks:
Location: Cockle Bay, Darling Harbour.
Catch high-flying stunts over the water and fireworks every Saturday night in February at 9 pm.
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Chinese Garden of Friendship:
Location: Pier St, Darling Harbour.
Tea ceremonies, zodiac readings, and peaceful garden escapes.
🏳️🌈 Mardi Gras & City Libraries
The City of Sydney Libraries are hosting unique workshops and storytelling sessions.
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Darling Square Library (The Exchange, 1 Little Pier St):
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Mardi Gras Printmaking: Laser-cut art workshops using archive imagery.
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Manga Club (Mon 16 Feb): Youth workshop for aspiring artists.
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Glebe Library (186 Glebe Point Rd):
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Auslan & English Storytime (Sat 14 Feb): An inclusive Valentine’s Day morning for kids.
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Mardi Gras Fair Day (Sun 15 Feb):
Location: Victoria Park, Parramatta Rd, Camperdown.
A full day of community stalls, music, and the famous “Dog Show.”
🛍️ Weekend Markets Guide
The Rocks Markets
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When: Friday (10 am – 3 pm), Saturday & Sunday (10 am – 5 pm).
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Where: Jack Mundey Place and Playfair Street.
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Why: Perfect for artisanal gifts, street food, and live music against the backdrop of the Harbour Bridge.
Elsewhere Around Town
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Kings Cross Market (Sat 14 Feb): Great for organic produce and local art.
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Paddington Markets (Sat 14 Feb): The go-to for fashion and unique Australian design.
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Oxford Street Night Market (Fri 13 Feb): Located at Taylor Square, this is the heart of the “Rainbow Precinct” celebrations.
| Market | Location | Days/Times | Highlights |
| The Rocks Markets | Jack Mundey Pl & Playfair St | Fri (10-3), Sat/Sun (10-5) | Local artisans, prints, and street food. |
| Paddington Markets | 395 Oxford St, Paddington | Sat (10-4) | Emerging fashion and handcrafted jewelry. |
| Kings Cross Market | Macleay St, Potts Point | Sat (9-2) | Organic produce and flower stalls. |
| Bondi Latin Fiesta | Bondi Beach Promenade | Sun (10-6) | Cultural stalls, Latin dance, and beach vibes. |
🎭 Concerts & Theatre
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Turandot (Opera Australia):
Location: Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point.
Performance dates: 13, 18 February (7:30 pm).
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The Great Gatsby: A Jazz Ballet Odyssey:
Location: Capitol Theatre, 13 Campbell St, Haymarket.
World Premiere starts Thursday, 19 February.
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Ultra Violet (Mardi Gras):
Location: City Recital Hall, 2 Angel Pl, Sydney.
A femme-charged musical event on Friday, 13 February.
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Barbra: The Greatest Star:
Location: Hayes Theatre, 19 Greenknowe Ave, Elizabeth Bay.
A tribute to Streisand running all week.
Note on Transport: For Valentine’s Day and the Lunar Streets festival (Saturday), expect heavy traffic around the CBD and Haymarket. The L2/L3 Light Rail is your best friend for moving between Circular Quay and Haymarket.
