What’s on in Sydney August 28 to September 4 – Your Guide to Sydney’s Best Events

What’s on in Sydney August 28 to September 4: Your Guide to Sydney’s Best Events

Sydney is buzzing this week with a vibrant mix of arts, culture, music, and community events. Whether you’re looking for a cultural deep dive, a day of market browsing, or a fun night out, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Arts and Culture

Exhibitions:

This is the final week to see the acclaimed exhibition Tender Comrade at the White Rabbit Gallery (30 Balfour St, Chippendale, NSW 2008), which closes on Sunday, August 31. This show explores Chinese history and queerness through a captivating collection of contemporary art. At the Art Gallery of New South Wales (Art Gallery Road, The Domain, Sydney, NSW 2000), you can still explore Yolŋu power | the art of Yirrkala, an exhibition showcasing nearly 300 works from North-East Arnhem Land. For a different kind of art, the Museum of Contemporary Art (140 George St, The Rocks, NSW 2000) continues its exhibition Cerith Wyn Evans …. in light of the visible, with epic environments of light and sound.

For those looking to discover new art, the TAP Gallery (259 Riley St, Surry Hills, NSW 2010) is hosting a group exhibition titled ‘A view from the side,’ featuring works on a new Australian invention, clear canvas. Additionally, the CBD Gallery (72 Erskine Street, Sydney, NSW) is presenting the Abstract Art Group Exhibition: Inner Currents, a show that challenges conventional artistic narratives. The Australian National Maritime Museum (2 Murray Street, Pyrmont, NSW 2009) also has a must-see exhibition, Wildlife Photographer of the Year, which showcases breathtaking images of the natural world.

Opera and Concerts:

The stage is set for some final bows this week. At the Sydney Opera House (Bennelong Point, Sydney, NSW 2000), the acclaimed Carmen by Opera Australia is on throughout the week, while La Bohème begins its run, with performances from August 28. For a unique musical experience, the Candlelight series offers a tribute to Adele and a “Jazz & Soul: Amy Winehouse” show on Saturday, August 30, bringing live, multi-sensory experiences to unique locations.

For live music, the week is packed. Paul Kelly performs at Qudos Bank Arena (19 Edwin Flack Avenue, Sydney Olympic Park, NSW 2127) on Saturday, August 30, while Camila Cabello is at Hordern Pavilion (1 Driver Avenue, Moore Park, NSW 2021) on the same night. For something more independent, The Owen Guns are playing at The Lansdowne (2-6 City Road, Chippendale, NSW 2008) on Friday, August 29, while Michael Beach and Miners perform at Vic on the Park (2 Addison Road, Marrickville, NSW 2204) on the same night.

Theatre and Other Shows:

Sydney Theatre Company presents the final performances of The Talented Mr. Ripley at the Roslyn Packer Theatre (22 Hickson Road, Dawes Point, NSW 2000) until Sunday, August 31. The play Circle Mirror Transformation is also on at Wharf 1 Theatre (Wharf 4/5, 15 Hickson Road, Walsh Bay, NSW 2000).

Markets

Sydney’s markets are a perfect way to spend a weekend, with a variety of stalls and a lively atmosphere.

• The Rocks Markets: Located in the historic precinct at Playfair & George Street, The Rocks, NSW, these markets run every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10am-5pm. They are a hub of creativity, featuring local artisans, handcrafted goods, gourmet street food, and live music.
• Carriageworks Farmers Market: This is an award-winning authentic farmers market held every Saturday from 8am-1pm at 245 Wilson Street, Eveleigh, NSW 2015. It brings together over 70 NSW farmers and artisan food producers, offering fresh, seasonal, and homemade produce.
• HUEHUE Sydney Art Market: For a fun and colourful art experience, head to the Tramsheds – Harold Park Community Hall (1 Dalgal Way, Forest Lodge, NSW) on Saturday, August 30, and Sunday, August 31. This market features stalls from over 40 artists, a photobooth, and unique merchandise.
• Second Life Markets: This popular pre-loved fashion market is held at Carriageworks (245 Wilson Street, Eveleigh, NSW 2015) on Sunday, August 31. It features over 120 stalls of curated vintage finds, alongside local DJs and food trucks.
• Green Square Market: Held on the fourth Saturday of the month (August 29), this market in Alexandria (18 O’Riordan Street, Alexandria, NSW) offers a huge range of international foods, fresh produce, and sustainable fashion.
• Le Marché French Market: Step into the charm of a Parisian village in Killara (Living Hope Anglican Killara, Arnold Street, Killara, NSW) on Saturday, August 30, with this pop-up market offering French delights.

Community Events and Activities

• Queer Screen Film Fest: Running until Sunday, August 31, this film festival celebrates diverse storytelling with a lineup of LGBTQIA+ films from around the world at various cinemas in Sydney.
• Sydney Fringe Festival: The festival begins on September 1, kicking off a month of creativity across the city. Sydney will burst with activity, from intimate theatre shows to late-night comedy and live music. Check the official program for events starting this week.
• Wear It Purple Day: On Friday, August 29, celebrate and support LGBTIQA+ young people. Look for events and activities across the city.
• Sydney Marathon: The TCS Sydney Marathon presented by ASICS takes place over the weekend of August 30-31, bringing Australia’s biggest marathon to the city.
• Yoga Under the Bridge: Start your Sunday with a free stretch and flex yoga session on August 31 at Dawes Point.
• Glebe Community Day: Join a community barbecue at the Glebe Community Centre on Friday, August 29.