Sydney Festival in January is the perfect way to kick off summer in the city. As Australia’s largest annual arts and culture festival, Sydney Festival transforms the city with world-class performances, installations, and free outdoor events.
Live Music & Performances – From large-scale concerts to intimate performances across iconic venues and outdoor spaces.
Theatre & Dance – Innovative productions staged at venues such as the Sydney Opera House, Carriageworks, and theatres across the CBD.
Public Art & Installations – Eye-catching installations throughout the city, many free to view and perfect for exploring on foot.
Free Events & Family-Friendly Shows – A wide range of accessible events suitable for all ages, making it ideal for summer travellers.
Experience the energy of one of the world’s most famous LGBTQIA+ celebrations, running throughout February. Highlights include:
Fair Day: Head to Victoria Park for drag king games, a pooch parade, and live entertainment.
Parade: Don’t miss the iconic parade along Oxford Street, featuring dazzling floats and performers.
Celebrate Lunar New Year with spectacular dragon boat races at Darling Harbour. Teams compete in beautifully decorated boats, and the lively atmosphere is perfect for a family outing.
What to Expect:
Dragon Boat Racing: Watch as teams glide through the water in brightly painted boats adorned with dragon heads, tails, and cultural motifs.
Cultural Performances: Enjoy traditional Chinese lion dances, martial arts demonstrations, and live music performances along the harbour.
Food & Markets: Taste authentic Asian cuisine from a variety of food stalls, offering everything from dumplings and bao to sweet treats and teas.
Family-Friendly Activities: Interactive craft workshops, lantern-making, and storytelling sessions for kids and adults.
Sydney in February is buzzing with live music:
Ed Sheeran performs at Accor Stadium from Friday, 13 February 2026 to Sunday, 15 February 2026.
Lorde brings her Ultrasound World Tour to Qudos Bank Arena on Wednesday, 11 February 2026.
Alex G & Lucy Dacus: Don’t miss these US indie sensations at the Sydney Opera House on Monday, 9 February and Tuesday, 10 February 2026, respectively.
The Wooten Brothers/Victor Wooten perform at Metro Theatre and Factory Theatre on Thursday, 5 February 2026.
Michael Learns to Rock will tour Australia in February 2026 – a must for fans of classic hits!
Unbeatable location: Steps from Central Station, your connection to Olympic Park, Darling Harbour, and beyond.
Local lifestyle: Surrounded by Surry Hills cafés, hidden bars, and great eats.
Comfort meets culture: Perfect for event weekends, summer escapes, or a city staycation.
Book your stay at Veriu Central and experience Sydney’s biggest moments from the heart of the city.
