07 Aug 2025

What's on in October

Let your imagination and innovation soar this October in Darling Harbour.
What's on in October
October in Darling Harbour is packed with unmissable moments. Start with the enchanting Moon Festival the Chinese Garden of Friendship, then catch Johnathan Van Ness bringing glam and unfiltered comedy to the stage.

Step into the future at SXSW Sydney 2025, featuring a massive lineup of FREE music, innovation, and talks for SXSW Unlocked at Tumbalong Park.

School holidays are looking out-of-this-world, with space-themed fun including the Imagination Station and IAC 2025 Space Day.

Step into the future at SXSW Sydney 2025

SXSW Sydney 2025 is the ultimate playground for creative minds hungry for discovery. Designed to inspire and empower, this event connects innovators, artists, and dreamers ready to turn curiosity into success. Even if you don't have a conference ticket, a massive lineup of FREE music, innovation, and talks is taking over Tumbalong Park for SXSW Unlocked.

Celebrate tradition and togetherness at the Moon Festival

Celebrate the magic of the Moon Festival at the Chinese Garden of Friendship — a joyful celebration of culture, connection, and tradition. Enjoy live music, traditional tea ceremonies, creative workshops, and a taste of mooncakes. All FREE with your Garden entry.

Blast off at the Imagination Station

These spring school holidays, Pier Street Underpass will be transformed with 4 days of FREE interactive workshops, craft stations, the return of Russ the Bus and an epic space-themed art cube creation.

See lions, lanterns and music in Darling Square

Until Sunday 12 October, Darling Square will transform with glowing lantern displays, live entertainment, delicious eats and free family friendly activities for Moon Festival. Watch the incredible LED lion dancing, get hands-on in the clay mooncake workshop, join the scavenger hunt and more! 

School’s out and imagination is in full bloom

These spring school holidays, Darling Harbour is bursting with fun for kids of all ages! Dive into hands-on adventures at the Australian National Maritime Museum, SEALIFE Aquarium, and Madame Tussauds, or level up at Immersive Gamebox. Got energy to burn? Hit the epic Darling Harbour Playground, join in kids yoga, or challenge your crew to a game of ping pong. With so much to see, do, and explore, boredom doesn't stand a chance!
Eat, Drink, and Be Happy
Unwind with unbeatable happy hour specials and meal deals that satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank. Whether you're after refreshing drinks or hearty bites, now’s the perfect time to treat yourself and enjoy great flavours for less.
01
Nov
31
Oct
4:30pm - 5:30pm daily
Happy Hour at IMAX Sydney
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Unmissable Happy Hour deals at the IMAX Sydney Bar!
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24
Jul
31
Dec
Weekly Dining Special Offer at ibis Kitchen
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Enjoy weekly food and drink specials in a vibrant waterfront setting
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04
Jun
04
Apr
11:30am-3pm daily
Jackalberry's Express Lunch: $29 for 1 Course + Drink
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Experience a culinary journey at Jackalberry with our new lunch special: enjoy one course and a drink for just $29, available daily from 11:30am to 3pm.
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13
Nov
31
Dec
Happy Hour Every day
Baia's Iconic 49% Off Happy Hour
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Experience stunning sunset views over the harbor at Baia's Happy Hour with a 49% discount on ALL drinks.
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Catch the joy, glam, and unfiltered comedy of Jonathan Van Ness

Queer Eye star and comedy sensation Jonathan Van Ness is back with Hot & Healed – a bold, joyful, and wildly entertaining live show like you've never seen before. One night only at ICC Sydney, Saturday 4 October.

Feel the soulful intimacy of Ryan Adams on the Heartbreaker ’25 World Tour

Celebrate 25 years of the iconic Heartbreaker album with multi-Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Ryan Adams. Known for his emotionally charged performances and genre-defying sound, Adams will deliver an intimate, acoustic set that highlights his expansive catalogue.
Looking for more?
The fun doesn't stop here! There is so much more happening this month in Darling Harbour - and plenty of time to check it all out!
05
Oct
07
Dec
2pm - 4pm
Sunday Sounds
Experience a harmonious blend of nature and melody in the Chinese Garden of Friendship - with tranquil tunes curated by Dr Nicolas Ng.
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All
Year
Fireworks
Fire up the fun with a spectacular fireworks display in Cockle Bay.
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11
Feb
17
Dec
Tuesdays at 12pm
Movement & Meditation Classes
Relieve stress, shift energy and find focus during your lunch break.
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13
Jan
22
Dec
Mondays at 7am
The Run Club
Chase your running goals while exploring Darling Harbour, totally free!
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