30 AWESOME Things to Do in Sydney in May- By Locals! (2025)
ARE YOU LOOKING FOR FUN THINGS TO DO IN SYDNEY IN MAY? I’VE GOT YOU.
I’ve been living in Sydney for over five years now, and I believe May is one of the best times to explore this stunning harbour city. The summer heat fades, the skies stay clear, and Sydney shifts into a cooler, calmer rhythm that’s honestly one of the best times to get out and explore.
This is also when Vivid Sydney takes over the harbour and changes the city into an open-air light show. On top of that, you’ll find some of Sydney’s best markets, live music, food festivals, and art shows popping up all over.
If the usual Sydney bucket list is starting to feel a little too familiar, this guide is for you! I’ve pulled together a list of unique and seasonal things to do in Sydney this May, from major events to hidden gems, with personal tips along the way!
Things to Do in Sydney in May: Major Events!
Below are the highlights for you to experience the best of Sydney in May 2025!
1. Vivid Sydney
📅23 May – 14 June
If there’s one event that defines May in Sydney, it’s the beginning of Vivid. This city-wide festival of light, music, and ideas kicks off in late May and turns Sydney into a surreal, glowing wonderland.
The Sydney Opera House becomes a canvas for animated projections, while laneways, parks, and harbourside precincts glow with installations. I always recommend starting your evening at Circular Quay and following the light trail through The Rocks, Barangaroo, and Darling Harbour. With over 75% of Vivid Sydney is free in 2025, this is a must-visit!
Also Read: The Complete Guide to Vivid Sydney 2025
2. Mother’s Day
📅11 May
Sydney is full of lovely ways to celebrate Mother’s Day, whether you’re planning a big outing or something more low-key. Most of the restaurants have great deals, so there’s no excuse not to treat your mum!
When my parents visited me in Sydney, they loved eating at The Grounds of Alexandria. I highly recommend stopping by here and checking what’s on for Mother’s Day! Booking a spa session is another thoughtful gift. And of course, you can also pick any experience from the list below and spend some quality time together.
Also Read: Things to do in Sydney with Parents!
3. Australian Fashion Week
📅 12 – 16 May
If you’re into fashion, AFC Australian Fashion Week is the place to be in May. Hosted at Carriageworks in Eveleigh, it brings together some of the top designers in Australia, with runway shows, panels, and installations. However, this is an invitation-only event, and if you didn’t register for it, don’t worry, there are still plenty of things to do in Sydney in May!
4. Sydney Writers’ Festival
📅10 May – 27 May
For book lovers, thinkers, and curious minds, the Sydney Writers’ Festival is a highlight of the cultural calendar. The week-long festival brings together authors, journalists, and artists for talks, panels, and storytelling sessions. It’s a great way to discover new books, hear different perspectives, and engage in thought-provoking conversations. Some sessions are free, while others need booking, so I’d recommend checking the program early and grabbing tickets.
CHECK DATES AND LOCATIONS HERE
5. Sydney Comedy Festival
📅21 April to 18 May
The laughs don’t stop in May thanks to the Sydney Comedy Festival, which continues throughout the month. Catch up all the hilarious acts one night at a time at the Sydney Comedy Festival Gala and live crowd favorite moments as Arj Barker brings his critically acclaimed show, ‘The Mind Field’, and Jimeoin with his brand new show, ‘Pandemonium’!
6. Australian Heritage Festival
📅18 April – 18 May
The Australian Heritage Festival, the country’s biggest heritage celebration, showcases rich culture and natural heritage with walking tours, talks, and open house events across NSW. It’s a great excuse to explore historic buildings, discover lesser-known suburbs, or take part in traditional crafts and community projects.
Things to Do in Sydney in May
Here is a list of awesome things to do in Sydney in May!
7. Barangaroo Artisan Market
📅 10 May
The Barangaroo is back on Sydney’s streets from 10 AM to 3 PM with over 70 stalls for you to be amazed by in 2025! You’ll find everything from ceramics, handwoven textiles, to handmade jewellery and native botanical skincare, all curated by local businesses! I always walk away with something unique (and a new small business to follow)! There’s live music, and plenty of food stalls too!
8. Horizon of Khufu
📅 Throughout May
The Horizons of Khufu VR experience is definitely one of our top picks for things to do in Sydney in May! It is rated a solid 4.8/5 by over 4,000+ people and is only growing popular among Sydneysiders! This immersive virtual reality journey takes you inside the Great Pyramid of Giza, offering the chance to marvel at the wonders of ancient Egypt like never before.
Check out our article on Horizons of Khufu for insider tips and everything you need to know to make the most of your visit!
➡️Use code “HAT10” for a 10% discount!
9. Annie Comes to Sydney!
📅Different Dates Throughout May
Haven’t found enough interesting things to do in Sydney this May? Well, hold your horses before you say that! Annie, the grown-up musical for all starring Anthony Warlow as “Daddy” Warbucks, and Debora Krizak as “Miss Hannigan” is coming to Sydney in April! This legendary musical features classics like “It’s the Hard Knock Life” and “Tomorrow”! Enjoy this celebration of hope, love, and friendship in different forms as seen in the classic 2014 movie!
10. Last Chance to See Autumn Foliage in 2025!
Autumn shades in NSW will continue to bloom till mid-May, and it’s the official autumn road tripping season! To make the most of the long weekends, I highly recommend heading up to the Blue Mountains for the best fall foliage in the state!
Alternatively, a day-trip to the Southern Highlands to see the incredible shades of red in Milton Park, sounds just as good!
11. The Other Art Fair
📅8 – 11 May
Looking for an art experience that’s a bit different? The Other Art Fair Sydney is returning at the White Bay Cruise Terminal in Rozelle. This vibrant event showcases over 130 independent artists, offering a unique opportunity to discover and purchase original artworks directly from the creatorsThe fair features immersive installations, live performances, DJs, and a fully stocked bar, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere.
12. Machu Picchu Exhibition
📅Throughout May
This April, dive into the rich heritage of ancient Peru with the immersive Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru exhibition at the Australian Museum. Explore over 130 ancient artifacts, including exquisite jewelry, funerary objects, and one of the most remarkable gold collections to ever tour the globe.
With state-of-the-art projections, video, and priceless artifacts, the exhibition offers an unparalleled glimpse into the sophisticated cultures of the Andean people. Discover the engineering marvels of Machu Picchu, learn about the spiritual beliefs and daily lives of ancient Peruvians, and uncover the mysteries of their awe-inspiring innovation.
13. Cronulla Jazz and Blues Festival
📅28 May – 1 June
Taking over the beachside suburb of Cronulla each May, this four-day festival is a coastal escape mixed with top-notch tunes. If you love smooth jazz, soul, funk, and blues, Cronulla turns into a stage with over 100 live performances across beachfront parks, pubs, and local venues. AND, it’s mostly free! It’s family-friendly and full of good food and even better energy.
14. Autumn Market At Wentworth Point
📅18 May (9 AM to 3 PM)
If you’re craving a leafy day out, come to the Ultimate Autumn Market at Wentworth Point! It is one of Western Sydney’s most-loved seasonal events, bringing together food trucks, plant and craft stalls, homewares, and live music in a dynamic community atmosphere! There’s a strong focus on sustainability and handmade goods here—ideal if you’re hunting for a unique Mother’s Day gift.
15. Snow White-Theme at The Grounds of Alexandria!
📅 Until Late May
Until late May, The Grounds of Alexandria is transformed into a Snow White-themed makeover, welcoming Disney’s masterpiece back into the theatres! Devour their special menu items like the Red Delicious, which may look like an apple but is filled with a flavorful green apple mousse, white chocolate, and jelly! From the greenery and woodland creatures to the magic mirror and treats, you’ll find everything straight from Disney’s classic movie here!
16. Dining in the Dark!
📅9 May
There have been times when we’ve looked at a dish and immediately disliked it, only to find out it was actually delicious. If you’ve ever judged a dish by its looks, you need to do the Dining in the Dark experience!
Don’t worry, you won’t be stuffed with random things. You’ll be blindfolded and served a 3-course meal based on your color choice: green for vegan, blue for seafood, and red for meat. Just let them know if you have any allergies! This unique experience is available in Sydney on 9th May—get ready to discover food in a whole new way!
17. An Evening With: The Music of Peter Allen
📅1 May
If you love your theatre with a side of nostalgia and sparkle, this heartfelt musical tribute to Peter Allen is a must. This special evening celebrates the life and music of Peter Allen, who gave the evergreen hits — from “I Go to Rio” to “Tenterfield Saddler, performed by artists coming from all across Australia! Expect storytelling, powerhouse vocals, and a celebration of showmanship and legacy. For longtime fans, as they celebrate each note, and toast every sip of champagne to the future of Australian theatre!
18. UPU at Sydney Opera House
📅7 – 10 May
This powerful spoken-word performance brings together Pacific Island voices in a way that’s rarely seen on a mainstage like the Sydney Opera House. UPU (meaning ‘word’ in languages of the Pacific Islands) is both poetic and political!
It’s part theatre, part literature, and 100% compelling. Performed by a dynamic cast, the show challenges colonial narratives while celebrating language and storytelling traditions that have been passed down through generations. You’ll leave feeling moved, inspired, and maybe even a little more connected to this region we call home. If you’re interested in Indigenous and First Nations storytelling, this one’s for you.
19. Les Misérables: The Arena Spectacular
The beloved musical takes on a grander scale with Les Misérables: The Arena Spectacular landing in Sydney! It’s the classic story of revolution, redemption, and resistance — but bigger, bolder, and more immersive than ever. If you’ve never seen Les Mis live, this is a jaw-dropping way to experience it. Expect massive crowd favourites like “One Day More” and “I Dreamed a Dream” delivered with full orchestration and high-production visuals. It’s touring for a limited time, so book your tickets early — this one draws theatre lovers from across the country.
20. Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown
A witty, whirlwind comedy based on Pedro Almodóvar’s cult film, this stage adaptation is part farce, part musical, and 100% chaos in the best way. Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown, playing at the Hayes Theatre, is quirky, clever, and unafraid to lean into absurdity. Perfect for a girls’ night or anyone who enjoys theatre that breaks away from the usual serious tone.
The Hayes always sells out quickly, so I recommend booking ahead and grabbing dinner nearby!
21. Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA Life Sydney
📅1 April – 18 May
If you or your kids are fans of Animal Crossing, this limited-time experience at SEA LIFE Sydney is an adorable way to blend gaming fun with real-world marine discovery. As you explore the aquarium’s underwater tunnels and interactive zones, you’ll take part in a stamp rally featuring characters like Isabelle, Gulliver, and Blathers!
22. State Library of NSW
📅Throughout May
The State Library of NSW is buzzing this May with a lineup of engaging events and exhibitions.
- Kick off the month with the Australian Haydn Ensemble: Schubert Songs concert on Saturday, 3 May, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Held in the Library’s elegant Paintings Galleries, this performance features acclaimed musicians bringing Schubert’s compositions to life in an intimate setting. T
- On May 9, educators and literature enthusiasts can attend Lit Up! Picture This
- There’s a Family Sunday on May 18, where illustrator Jade Goodwin leads a hands-on drawing workshop for kids.
23. The Great Bat Count – Centennial Park
📅16 May (4.30 – 5.30)
The Great Bat Count invites children (5- 15 years of age) to help monitor Sydney’s flying-fox population, one of the largest urban bat colonies. Guided by expert volunteers, they will learn fascinating facts about these nocturnal creatures and contribute to important conservation efforts. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a torch.
24. Life Chronicles at Sydney Olympic Park
📅Throughout May
Embark on a breathtaking voyage through 3.5 billion years of Earth’s evolution at Life Chronicles, a cutting-edge virtual reality experience now open at the Fever Pavilion, Sydney Showground. This 45-minute adventure transports you from the planet’s primordial beginnings to the rise of humanity, all through stunning, scientifically accurate visuals developed in collaboration with France’s Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle.
Guided by the curious young researcher Charlie and her robot companion Darwin, you’ll traverse ancient oceans teeming with Cambrian creatures, stroll alongside towering dinosaurs like the mighty Tyrannosaurus, and witness the emergence of early humans. The immersive experience is both educational and entertaining, making it perfect for families, school groups, or anyone fascinated by Earth’s rich history.
CHECK PRICES AND BOOK HERE
25. Sonic Spaces – The Hammock Room Music Experience
📅 26 May
Experience music like never before with Sonic Spaces, an intimate series of performances held in the historic hammock room at the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Hyde Park Barracks. Originally used to house convicts, this unique venue now offers a cozy setting where guests can relax in hammocks and immerse themselves in atmospheric lighting and surround sound.
26. Piaf! The Show
Celebrate the life and music of the iconic Edith Piaf with this French cabaret-style performance that’s taking over stages worldwide. Piaf! The Show arrives in Sydney in May, bringing an emotional retelling of the singer’s life through her most famous songs — from “La Vie en Rose” to “Non, Je Ne Regrette Rien.”This is for anyone who loves classic French music, heartfelt lyrics, and a bit of vintage drama. The show is performed in French (with translations), but the emotion cuts right through the language barrier. The audience often sings along, so it feels communal and beautifully melancholic.
27. Red Hot Summer Tour
For lovers of Aussie rock, the Red Hot Summer Tour is a non-negotiable. It brings together an all-star lineup of classic Australian bands for one epic outdoor show, this year featuring Jimmy Barnes, The Living End, and Jon Stevens. Held in outdoor venues around Sydney, it’s a festival-style event with casual vibes, great food stalls, and a high-energy crowd. If you grew up on Aussie rock or just love a good live music fix, this one delivers big time.
CHECK DETAILS AND BOOK TICKETS HERE
28. Generations and Dynasties at Sydney Opera House
This elegant evening of classical music brings together two generations of musical mastery. Performed at the Sydney Opera House, Generations and Dynasties is part of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra’s May program — and it’s a treat for anyone who loves orchestral depth with a narrative edge. You don’t need to be a classical music expert to enjoy it — the beauty of live symphony is in how it sweeps you up, even if you’ve never heard the pieces before. If you’re visiting or looking for a special date night in May, this makes for a memorable, refined experience.
29. And Then There Were None
Agatha Christie’s classic murder mystery hits the Sydney stage this May with a gripping, atmospheric production of And Then There Were None. Ten strangers find themselves trapped on a remote island, and one by one, they begin to die. Suspenseful, eerie, and masterfully staged, this play is a must for fans of whodunits and psychological thrillers.
What makes this version stand out is its slick pacing and the haunting set design — every creak and shadow adds to the tension. If you enjoy a clever plot with plenty of twists, it’s a gripping night out. Don’t forget to guess the killer before the final curtain!
30. Romeo & Juliet by Come You Spirits
📅21 – 24 May
Shakespeare with a twist — this immersive production of Romeo & Juliet by Come You Spirits is performed outdoors and deeply rooted in connection with nature. Staged in various natural settings across Sydney, this version strips back the pomp and focuses on raw emotion, voice, and movement. It’s intimate, poetic, and totally unique. The cast moves through the environment, and so do the audience — you’re not sitting in rows; you’re part of the world being created.
Things to Do in Sydney in May: FAQs
I’ve tried answering a few questions people often have about Sydney in May:
Is May A Good Month to Visit Sydney?
Absolutely yes—May is one of my favourite times of the year in Sydney! As autumn continues, gorgeous golden-hour light all day long, and there’s of course a jam-packed events calendar thanks to autumn festivals like Vivid Sydney, the Comedy Festival, and more!
How Warm Is Sydney in May?
May in Sydney falls right in the heart of autumn, and it’s honestly one of the nicest times to be out and about. The sticky summer humidity is gone, and temperatures usually sit between 14°C and 22°C, making it perfect for layering up and enjoying the city without overheating or freezing!
Can You See Whales in Sydney in May?
Yes! Whale season in Sydney usually kicks off in mid to late May, and it’s always magical. Humpback whales start their migration north from Antarctica, and if you’re lucky, you can spot them from the coastal cliffs—North Head, Cape Solander, and Barrenjoey Lighthouse are great vantage points.
If you want to get even closer, May is also the start of the whale watching cruise season, with boats leaving from Circular Quay and Darling Harbour. I highly recommend booking one around the end of the month for the best chance of sightings.
🐋Sydney 2-Hour Exppress Whale Watching Cruise
🐋Whale Watching Cruise + Taronga Zoo Ticket
🐋2.5 Hour Whale Discovery Cruise
Things to Do in Sydney in May: The Wrap-Up👒
This list of things to do in Sydney in May is all wrapped up, and just in case you haven’t experienced the beautiful fall foliage in Sydney or nearby places, I highly suggest you do! Let me know what experiences you plan on doing, and drop any suggestions on our Instagram!
