07 Apr 2026

What’s On In May

Don't miss out on the exciting events and offers happening in Darling Harbour this May! From Vivid Sydney's dazzling light displays to Mother's Day treats and free kids' activities, there's something for everyone.
May is bringing a month of epic events to Darling Harbour! Get ready for dazzling light displays, free live music, cultural festivals and activities for the whole family. Here's your ultimate guide to the most unmissable events this month.

1. Buddha's Birthday

Head to Tumbalong Park for a vibrant celebration filled with traditional ceremonies, delicious vegetarian food stalls, cultural performances, and mindful activities for all ages.
Sat 2 & Sun 3 May

2. Fireworks

Whether you're enjoying an evening stroll, sipping on alfresco drinks, or indulging in a delicious dinner, there's no better way to cap off your Darling Harbour experience than with an incredible array of fireworks against the backdrop of one of Sydney's most iconic waterfronts.
Sat 2 May
8.30pm
 

3. Sunday Sounds at The Chinese Garden

Experience a harmonious blend of nature and melody in this event at the Chinese Garden of Friendship, with a special music series curated by the acclaimed Dr. Nicholas Ng (Sydney Conservatorium of Music Chinese Music Ensemble).
Sun 4 May
2pm - 4pm

4. Refined Strings, Elegant Melodies

Step into a world where ancient soundscapes meet refined artistry, set against the serene surrounds of the Chinese Garden of Friendship. Experience an immersive chamber music series that celebrates the expressive power, history and innovation of traditional Chinese instruments.
Wed 6 May
10.30 - 11.30am

5. Treat Mum This Mother's Day

Spoil your mum with a day she'll never forget at Darling Harbour. Indulge in a delicious meal that's fit for a queen, pamper her with a relaxing spa treatment, or escape to nature at the Chinese Garden of Friendship.
Sun 10 May

6. Vivid Sydney

Australia's largest festival of light, music and ideas, returns - and you don't want to miss it! Darling Harbour highlights include 22 drone shows across 11 nights, the biggest free laser show Australia has ever seen at Cockle Bay 23 evenings of free live music and DJs at Tumbalong Nights, and more than 10 spectacular light installations to explore throughout the precinct.
22 May - 13Jun

7. Free live music at Tumbalong Nights

Immerse yourself in the heart of Vivid Sydney at Tumbalong Park. This vibrant music festival hub comes alive with a stellar line-up of free live music across 12 nights, showcasing the best international and local talent.
Vivid Kids will take over Tumbalong Park every Saturday at 5pm throughout the festival, offering FREE family-friendly shows, designed to get little legs moving and big imaginations soaring—all before the main music lineup lights up the night.
22 May - 13 Jun
 

8. Join the Run Club

Lace up your sneakers and join the friendly Run Club for a scenic jog along the picturesque Darling Harbour foreshore. It's a great way to stay active and meet new people.
Mondays

9. Corporate Pickleball Competition

Serve up some mid-week fun and friendly rivalry at ICC Sydney's House of Pickle's Autumn Corporate Pickleball Competition.
Until 27 May

10. Split Enz - Forever Enz Tour

For the first time in close to 20 years original members are reuniting as Split Enz to tour Australia in May 2026.
18 - 19 May

11. In Conversation with Michelle Obama

For the first time, former First Lady Michelle Obama appears live in Sydney. Don’t miss this rare chance to hear her inspiring story and insights on empowerment, equality, and hope.
20 - 21 May
Looking For More?
You thought that was it? Don't worry there is so much more happening this month in Darling Harbour - and plenty of time to check them all out!
05
May
07
May
Professor Brian Cox Emergence World Tour
By
After performing his smash-hit show, Horizons’ to nearly half a million people across the world, Professor Brian Cox is back with his new world tour Emergence.
View Event
10
May
Jimmy Carr
By
Jimmy Carr is coming to Darling Harbour Theatre ICC Sydney on Sunday 10 May 2026!
View Event
06
Nov
03
May
10am-4pm daily
Ocean Photographer of the Year
By
Celebrate the wonder and fragility of our blue planet through the world’s leading ocean photography competition, returning to the Australian National Maritime Museum this November.
View Event
03
Feb
15
Dec
Tuesdays at 12pm
Movement & Meditation Classes
Relieve stress, shift energy and find focus during your lunch break.
View Event
01
Apr
03
May
Wed 1 Apr - Sun 3 May
SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium – Aussie Animal Passport
By
Your Passport to an Underwater & Aussie Animal Adventure
View Event
01
May
03
May
Wed 1 Apr - Sun 3 May
WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo – Aussie Animal Passport
Your Passport to an Iconic Aussie Wildlife Adventure
View Event
There's something for everyone at Darling Harbour this May! So come on down, experience the vibrant atmosphere, and create unforgettable memories.