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What to do in Sydney This November: Key Events & Highlights




Sydney’s November calendar is packed with a variety of events that cater to food lovers, art enthusiasts, music fans, and festivalgoers. Here’s an in-depth look at the top events around the city this month.


1. Good Food & Wine Show Christmas Market

For holiday season inspiration, head to the Good Food & Wine Show Christmas Market at Carriageworks. The market will feature over 150 vendors with gourmet foods, boutique wines, and artisan products. Special events include Secret Sips wine tastings and festive cooking demos led by top chefs. This is a unique chance to stock up on Christmas gifts and holiday treats in one lively space.


  • Dates: 22nd November - 24th December 2024

  • Location: Carriageworks, Eveleigh


2. Culture Alive Festivals at Darling Harbour

Every weekend in November, Darling Harbour hosts Culture Alive Festivals, celebrating the city’s rich multicultural diversity with unique events:


  • Korean Festival (9-10th November): Enjoy Korean food stalls, cultural shows, and K-pop performances.

  • Philippines Christmas Festival (16-17th November): Experience Filipino Christmas delicacies, handicrafts, and live performances.

  • Nepal Festival (November 23): Indulge in Nepalese cuisine, traditional dances, and handmade crafts.


Each weekend offers an opportunity to experience a different culture’s food, art, and music in a festive setting.


  • Dates: 9th November - 24th November 2024 (specific dates for each event)

  • Location: Tumbalong Park, Darling Harbour


3. Sculpture by the Sea

Running from October 18 to November 4, Sculpture by the Sea transforms the Bondi to Tamarama coastal walk into an outdoor gallery. This iconic event features sculptures from over 100 artists worldwide, with a range of interactive and large-scale installations. For the best experience, check out the free Sculpture by the Sea app, which offers an interactive map and artwork insights.


  • Dates: 18th October - 4 November 2024

  • Location: Bondi to Tamarama Coastal Walk



4.Terrarium Workshop: Build Your Own Mini Ecosystem


Made own terrarium at workshop in WentworthVille
A satisfactory experience at the Terrarium Workshop

For a unique, hands-on experience, head to this light-filled plant store in WentworthVille for a Terrarium Workshop where you can fully customize your mini ecosystem, choosing from a variety of plants, vases, and ornaments. The knowledgeable instructor will guide you through each step, covering the basics of plant care and terrarium building to ensure your creation thrives. This workshop is ideal for adults and children, with a special kids' succulent workshop available for $39.


  • Price: Starting at $70 for adults, $40 for kids

  • Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes

  • Location: Shop 3, 344 Great Western Highway, Wentworthville

  • Book here: Terrarium Workshop


5. Jacaranda Spotting: Kirribilli and Lavender Bay


Standing under the shade of Jacaranda trees
Jacaranda Tunnel

One of the best places to experience Sydney’s iconic jacaranda bloom is along the scenic streets of Kirribilli and Lavender Bay on the city’s north shore. Each spring, these neighborhoods transform into a purple paradise with canopies of jacaranda trees lining the streets. Start at McDougall Street in Kirribilli, famous for its vivid purple hues, then take a short walk to Lavender Bay, where you can enjoy stunning views of Sydney Harbour framed by blooming jacarandas.


Best Time to Visit: Late October to early December


  1. Sydney Streets Are Back!

This festive season, Sydney Streets returns with a series of lively, pedestrian-friendly street festivals across some of the city’s most vibrant neighbourhoods. Expect street closures in areas like Newtown, Surry Hill, and Oxford Street, transforming them into bustling hubs of outdoor dining, live music, and local market stalls. It’s a fantastic way to experience Sydney’s diverse food and shopping scene while enjoying seasonal entertainment in an open-air setting.


  1. Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Road Trip

A short drive from Sydney, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park offers a perfect nature escape with scenic hiking trails, stunning lookouts, and Aboriginal rock engravings that showcase Indigenous history. The park is ideal for a quick getaway to hike, picnic, or explore the waterways by kayak, making it an easy road trip for outdoor enthusiasts.


8. Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk

The Barrenjoey Lighthouse at Palm Beach offers a rewarding hike with breathtaking views. The walk to the lighthouse provides insight into the area's maritime history, and visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Broken Bay. Guided tours are available on Sundays for those interested in learning more about the lighthouse and its history.


9.Outdoor Cinema Series

As the evenings warm up, outdoor cinemas pop up across Sydney, offering a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy classic films under the stars. Locations like the Bondi OpenAir Cinema and Moonlight Cinema in Centennial Park feature a range of films, from blockbusters to cult classics, accompanied by delicious food options.

  • Dates: Varies by venue throughout November


Location: Bondi Beach and Centennial Park


10.Explore Sydney’s Hidden Bars1

November is the perfect time to discover Sydney’s vibrant nightlife. Consider joining a guided tour to explore some of the city’s hidden bars and speakeasies. With unique cocktails and eclectic atmospheres, these venues offer a distinctive experience for night owls.


  • Dates: Various dates throughout November

  • Location: Various hidden bars in Sydney

  • Website: Sydney Bar Tours


11.Explore the Festive Martin Place Christmas Markets

The Martin Place Christmas Markets are making their return, setting the stage for a festive celebration in Sydney's central business district. Shoppers can browse a delightful selection of Christmas-themed goods, toys, and festive treats.

  • Dates: 28 November - 1st December, 5th - 7th December, 12th -14th December and 19th - 21st December

  • Location: Martin Place, Sydney


12.Visit the Groundbreaking Magritte Exhibition

Art enthusiasts should not miss the Magritte exhibition at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, opening on 26th October 2024. This retrospective showcases over 100 artworks from the iconic surrealist René Magritte, celebrating his unique ability to find mystery in everyday life and challenging perceptions through art.

  • Dates: Opens 26th October 2024, ongoing

  • Location: Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney


13.Experience Movies Like Never Before at Mov’in Bed Beach Cinema

Barangaroo's Mov’in Bed Beach Cinema will offer an innovative twist on outdoor movie nights. Featuring queen and king-sized beds, attendees can relax in comfort while enjoying a selection of popular films like Gladiator II and The Joker: Folie à Deux. This unique cinematic experience is perfect for summer evenings.

  • Dates: 29th November 2024 - March 2025

  • Location: Barangaroo, Sydney


14.Get Ready for the Dinos Alive Exhibition

The Dinos Alive exhibition is set to captivate visitors with life-sized, animated dinosaur replicas. From towering T-Rexes to agile Velociraptors, this interactive experience offers a thrilling journey through the prehistoric world, making it a fantastic outing for families as the holiday season approaches.

  • Dates: Ongoing through November

  • Location: Sydney Olympic Park


15.Dive Into Summer at Pier One’s Free Pontoon Pool

As summer arrives, Pier One Sydney Harbour is introducing a new free pontoon pool located next to the Pier Bar. Visitors can enjoy refreshing swims against the backdrop of stunning harbour views, creating an ideal setting for relaxation and socializing with friends in the warm weather.

  • Dates: 1st November, 2024 to 31st January, 2025

  • Location: Pier One, Sydney


16.Savor Street Food at Spicetown Leichhardt Night Market

The Spicetown Leichhardt Night Market has opened its doors, bringing an exciting food scene to Sydney’s Inner West. Featuring a diverse array of food vendors and a lively atmosphere, this night market is the perfect spot to indulge in delicious street food late into the night.

  • Saturday & Sunday: 12 pm – 11 pm

  • Thursday & Friday: 3 pm – 11 pm

  • Monday – Wednesday: Closed

Location: Leichhardt, Sydney


17.Journey Back in Time with the Horizon of Khufu Experience


Horizon of Khufu VR experience, Sydney Olympic Park

Experience the wonders of Ancient Egypt with the Horizon of Khufu virtual reality exhibition at Sydney Olympic Park. This immersive journey allows visitors to step into the world of King Khufu and explore the majestic pyramids, making it an engaging educational experience for all ages.

  • Dates: Throughout November

  • Location: Sydney Olympic Park


Book your tickets here and use the discount code "HAT10"


18. Discover the Mysteries of Machu Picchu

The Australian Museum is set to unveil a captivating exhibition in November that invites visitors to explore the ancient wonders of Peru. Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Perupromises to be an immersive experience, featuring remarkable artifacts, stunning gold collections, and even virtual reality components that bring the rich history of this legendary site to life.


  • Dates: November 2024 to February 2025

  • Location: Australian Museum, Sydney


19. Step Into a Tropical Oasis

Experience the lush environment of a rainforest without leaving Sydney at the Alchemy of a Rainforest installation at the Royal Botanic Gardens. This vibrant display features striking sculptures, extensive greenery, and one of the Southern Hemisphere's largest living green walls, allowing you to appreciate nature's beauty right in the heart of the city.

  • Date and Timings: Daily, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

  • Location: Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney


20. Stock Up at the Cronulla Christmas Market

Prepare for the festive season by visiting the Cronulla Christmas markets on November 16 and 17. This bustling market offers a variety of holiday goods, from unique gifts and homewares to fashion items, all while enjoying delicious food right by the beach.

  • Dates: 16th November 2024 -17th November 2024

  • Location: Cronulla Beach, Sydney


21. Indulge Your Senses with Dining in the Dark

If you're looking for a unique dining experience, consider Dining in the Dark. This innovative concept challenges diners to enjoy a three-course meal in complete darkness at Capriccio Osteria or Beast & Co in Surry Hills. It’s a culinary adventure that heightens your taste buds and changes the way you experience food.

  • Location: Capriccio Osteria and Beast & Co, Surry Hills


Book here and use code "HATDITD10" for a 10% discount from the 8th of November until the 18th!

As November unfolds, Sydney transforms into a vibrant hub of culture, creativity, and community spirit. With a lineup of exciting events, from food festivals and art exhibitions to outdoor adventures, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Immerse yourself in the city's diverse experiences, connect with its rich cultural fabric, and create lasting memories. Don’t miss the chance to explore all that Sydney has to offer this month!


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