Museums of History NSW announces new “Parramatta Open” – The first ever satellite of their much-loved Sydney Open program
Media Release -Posted 14 July,2026
Museums of History NSW is excited to announce the first Parramatta Open, a new one-day event inviting locals and visitors behind the doors of some of Parramatta’s most significant buildings, spaces and hidden places.
Taking place on Saturday 29 August 2026, the inaugural event will celebrate the architecture, heritage and civic ambition of one of Australia’s oldest and fastest-evolving cities, from colonial landmarks to contemporary award-winning design.
Images of Old Government House *** Local Caption *** Original FileName : 07_1_DJI_0709.jpg
At Spring Harvest Festival held at Elizabeth Farm 18 October 2015, visitors were invited to discover the food and stories of the colonial dining table pickles, preserves, honey, coffee, tea, smoked goods, heirloom produce and more.
The festival also included a hand-picked selection of over 15 providores selling their goods on the day.
*** Local Caption *** James Horan, photographer. 18 October 2016. Original file name: Spring Harvest Festival at Elizabeth Farm 18-10-2015 0331.jpg
Images of Old Government House *** Local Caption *** Original FileName : 07_1__DSC2556-HDR.jpg
Presented as the first satellite event of the much-loved Sydney Open program, Parramatta Open offers rare access, expert insights and new ways to experience the places that have shaped Parramatta’s past, present and future. Visitors are invited to go behind the scenes into places rarely open to the public and discover hidden gems across the city.
The program features entry to 16 buildings and spaces across the Parramatta CBD and surrounds, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience the city’s architecture, heritage and hidden stories, up close.
Now in its 22nd year, Sydney Open has welcomed more than 110,000 people to over 500 buildings and spaces, offering rare insights into some of the city’s most significant, innovative and hidden places which are rarely open to the public.
Images of Hambledon Cottage *** Local Caption *** Original FileName : HambledonCottage2.jpg
“We are delighted to expand our Sydney Open program to Parramatta this year,” said Annette Pitman, CEO, Museums of History NSW. “Parramatta has an extraordinary architectural story, from deep histories and early colonial landmarks to bold civic and cultural spaces that speak to the future of Western Sydney. Parramatta Open is an opportunity to explore the city in new ways and celebrate the buildings, people and stories that make it so unique.”
Supported by presenting partner, City of Parramatta, the Parramatta Open features a diverse program of buildings and experiences across the Parramatta CBD and surrounds, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Government House, Australia’s oldest surviving public building; Parramatta Square, a major civic development that reshaped the city centre; and PHIVE, the award-winning landmark now widely known as Parramatta’s living room.
Parramatta Open invites visitors and residents to discover the architecture, heritage and hidden stories
of one of NSW’s fastest-evolving cities. Tickets go on sale Tuesday 21 July 2026. Stay tuned for more at sydneyopen.com.au/.
EVENT SUMMARY
WHAT: Parramatta Open, a Sydney Open satellite event
WHERE: Parramatta CBD and surrounds
WHEN: Saturday 29 August, 10am – 4pm
TICKETS: On sale from Tuesday July 21. $35 Adult, $28 Member, $25 Student, Children under 16 – Free with ticket purchase
MORE INFORMATION: sydneyopen.com.au/
