Iconic Sydney Events & Activities Worth Planning For 2025

The year 2025 is upon us, and if you’re looking to make the most of the upcoming year in Sydney, take a moment for a little bit of planning. When it comes to cities that throw the best parties, Sydney is a front-runner. There’s always something exciting going on in the ‘Harbour City’! So, whip out your diary and get ready to pencil in some of Sydney’s most exciting events — from the dazzling fireworks, music and culinary delights to parades that embrace love in all its colourful glory, Sydney has it all. 

So, to answer the question of what to do in Sydney in 2025, we’ve got a list of the key dates, iconic events and activities to do in Sydney. Pick an event, gather your mates and go have some fun as 2025 in Sydney promises an unforgettable calendar! 

Sydney New Year's Eve Fireworks - 31st Dec

Ready to ring in the New Year with a bang? The world-famous Sydney New Year's Eve Fireworks is a spectacle that lights up the Harbour Bridge and Opera House, welcoming the new year. This event is the epitome of Sydney’s events worth planning ahead for.

Activities: 

• As the NYE fireworks attract over a million spectators, the ideal way to watch the event and spend the day is on a Sydney Harbour NYE cruise. For a more immersive experience, join the popular Sydney Showboat NYE fireworks dinner cruise as you can participate in the ‘Harbour Light Parade’ at the same time enjoy Sydney’s signature experience.
• If you’re with family, you could choose the Roar and Snore at Taronga Zoo with spectacular views of the iconic Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge and the Sydney New Year celebrations from your exclusive campsite.
• Enjoy a family picnic at the Royal Botanical Gardens with stunning views of the fireworks, but be sure to get there early.

Sydney Festival - 4-26 January

Kickstart your year with an explosion of culture at the Sydney Festival, held every January. This dynamic celebration transforms the city into a playground of creativity, offering a diverse mix of theatre, dance, visual arts and live music. From bold, contemporary performances to family-friendly attractions, the festival embraces Sydney’s vibrant artistic scene. Explore these events at open-air venues or intimate theatres—the perfect way to immerse yourself in the city’s famous festival. 

If you are a lover of Cabaret look no further than our very own Sydney Showboat! Our "Voyage of Love" cabaret show, with dancing, singing and art on the high sea, is running most nights during the festival, but be quick to book as tickets are limited!

Activities: 

• Gather your friends or family and explore classic and contemporary art collections during the festival at the Art Gallery of NSW.
• Watch performances at The Wharf Theatre for a local theatrical experience
• Wander through the oldest public parkland— Hyde Park, hosting late-night pop-up performances and events

Mardi Gras - 14 February - 2 March 

In February, Sydney lights up with the fabulousness of Mardi Gras, a celebration of love, pride and acceptance. It is one of the world’s largest LGBTQIA+ festivals, combining music, dance and a vibrant celebration of inclusivity. The parade down Oxford Street is the heart of the event, where glittery costumes turn the streets of Sydney into a rainbow party. Beyond the parade, there are other activities you can enjoy over the month.

Activities: 

• Learn about Sydney's rich LGBTQIA+ history with local guided cultural tours.
• Visit Bondi Beach and dance like nobody’s watching to world-class DJs, musical acts, and ‘Laugh Out Proud’, an annual comedy night.
• For a night of entertainment, book the popular Showboat dinner cruise on Sydney Harbour enjoying the spectacular ‘Voyage of Love’ cabaret show.

Sydney Royal Easter Show - 11-22 April

The Sydney Royal Easter Show takes centre stage in April, with a unique blend of agriculture, entertainment and fun. From thrilling rides to adorable animal exhibits and mouth-watering treats, this event captures true Aussie charm. The show also features live music and fireworks every night. For a family-friendly Sydney experience, add this to your list of Sydney events during the Easter holidays.

Activities: 

• Rides galore at the Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park, for both adults and kids.
• Dog show at Sydney Royal Easter Show - Sydney Showground.
• Nighttime fireworks in the Main Arena - Olympic Park along with other entertainment in the evening

Vivid Sydney - 23 May to 14 June 

May to June brings the luminous magic of Vivid Sydney, a festival that redefines how we see the city. This annual light, music, ideas and food festival transforms Sydney into a dazzling wonderland for 23 spectacular days and nights. Vivid Sydney will showcase a harmonious blend of art, innovation and technology, featuring collaborations with renowned artists, thinkers, talented musicians and culinary experts.

Activities: 

• Explore the illuminated light displays around Circular Quay, the Opera House, and the Harbour Bridge.
• Explore the magical light installations at the Royal Botanic Garden during Vivid.
• Join a Vivid Sydney Showboat dinner cruise for close views of the dazzling festival along with a colourful cabaret show on board.

Bastille Festival Sydney - July 14

Say "bonjour" to winter in July with the Bastille Festival, a celebration of French culture in the heart of Sydney. The Circular Quay and The Rocks transform into a Parisian wonderland with French wines, gourmet cheeses and crepes on offer. You’ll feel transported to France as you enjoy live music, film screenings, art installations. Vive la Sydney!

Activities: 

• Enjoy a luxurious dining experience on a Sydney Showboat dinner cruise with a cabaret show. This spectacular live performance includes the high-energy Can-Can dance—a vibrant French tradition that originated in 19th-century Paris.
• Be entertained by world-class acts, including music, dance, and theatrical showcases at designated city venues
• Indulge in delicious all-French-inspired delicacies from crepes to croissants at street markets.

Sydney Fringe Festival - September 

The Sydney Fringe Festival takes over the city with its bold and unconventional performances. This festival celebrates independent artists and alternative perspectives, from quirky pop-up stages to art exhibits. Perfect for those who love discovering hidden gems, the Fringe Festival spans comedy, music, cabaret and more. If you’re looking for offbeat and memorable Sydney events, this one will surprise you.

Activities: 

• Watch street performers and pop-up events in areas like Newtown and Darling Harbour
• Join a free open-air party popping up at Sydney Place or the Sydney Fringe Slideshow.
• After a day of exploring the Sydney Fringe Festival, wind down and board the Sydney Showboat dinner cruise. Enjoy a relaxing harbour cruise, a delicious dinner and a dazzling cabaret show for the perfect end to your festival experience.

Sydney is a city that knows how to celebrate and its calendar of events is a proof of that. So, if you’re planning a visit, be sure to include these spectacular moments in your itinerary. With so many incredible events and activities in Sydney, you’re in for a year full of unforgettable memories. What’s on your list of what to do in Sydney next year?