The Best Things to Do in Sydney This Weekend

Looking for the best things to do in Sydney this weekend? The city is buzzing with festive fun, family outings and big-ticket events.

This weekend in Sydney is shaping up to be an eventful one, especially for playground-loving kids, as there's not one, but TWO awesome new playgrounds to check out, including Sydney's biggest indoor one at Area 51! But wait, there's more to do...

See family movies under the stars, listen to live music at Twilight at Taronga Zoo, enjoy Beats and Bites in Blacktown, travel through time at Life Chronicles, and experience Stranger Things at Luna Park.

Plenty is happening across Sydney this weekend to make it unforgettable. Have a good one, folks! 

The Best Things to Do in Sydney This Weekend

Things to do all Weekend 

Things to do on Saturday 

Things to do on Sunday 

FREE & Cheap This Weekend
 

Things to do All Weekend

Listen to Live Music at Twilight at Taronga

It's back! Taronga Zoo's Twilight at Taronga concert series returns in 2026, featuring five unforgettable weekends from February to March. 

Kicking off on Friday, 6 February, the series offers five back-to-back weekends of diverse musical performances for families and music lovers alike. The season opens with the dreamy indie-folk sounds of The Paper Kites, setting a relaxed, magical tone for the months ahead. On Saturday, 7 February, little ones get their own moment with a special Lil' Twilight show starring Emma Memma, followed by a lively double-header that evening with Cloud Control and The Preatures bringing alternative pop and indie energy to the stage.

Where:  Taronga Zoo, Bradleys Head Road, Mosman
When:    Various dates from 6 February to 7 March 2026
Cost:      Various, depending on the event

Discover Your New Favourite Coffee-Playground Hang at Little Pines

If your ideal family hangout involves great coffee, easy bites, and a playground that delivers big energy, Lone Pine's freshly revamped Little Pines Café & Playground is about to become your new go-to in Sydney's west.

The perfect thing to do this weekend in Sydney for families with active little ones, Little Pines is quickly becoming our favourite coffee-playground hang (or wine-coffee playground hang, depending on the hour!), where little and big kids are happily occupied on an otherwise boring Saturday or Sunday.  

Where:  15 Rooty Hill Rd S, Rooty Hill
When:   Open daily from 9 am to 9 pm

Travel Through Time at Life Chronicles

If you're after weekend activities in Sydney that feel part science lesson, part wow-factor adventure, Life Chronicles is a brilliant pick.

This 45-minute immersive experience guides families through 3.5 billion years of life on Earth, from the earliest organisms to the age of the dinosaurs and the arrival of humans. Guided by virtual explorer Charlie and her robot sidekick Darwin, familiar spaces transform into living, breathing worlds — and yes, there's even the chance of coming face-to-face with a Tyrannosaurus!

Where:  Fever Pavilion, Olympic Blvd, Sydney Olympic Park
When:   Daily until 31 January 2026
Cost:     $40 per adult, $32 per child aged 8-17

Watch Traditional Candy-Making

Watching traditional candy-making at Sticky is one of those unexpectedly delightful weekend activities that kids (and grown-ups) find completely mesmerising.

Each batch is made by hand and totally unique, with colours, patterns and designs slowly taking shape right before your eyes — sometimes in minutes, sometimes over a couple of hours. There's no set schedule, which makes it feel a bit like edible theatre, but your best chance to catch a live demonstration is between 9.30 am and 1 pm, and again from 2 to 5 pm, seven days a week. With multiple batches made in the morning and afternoon, chances are you'll see the magic happen before your eyes!

Where:  Shop 10, The Rocks Centre, 12-24 Playfair Street, The Rocks
When:   Daily demonstrations | Monday to Sunday between 9.30 am and 1 pm, and again between 2 and 5 pm. 
Cost:     FREE

See 400,000 Balloons at Balloon Story

For things to do in Sydney this weekend that genuinely feel different (yet totally family-friendly), Balloon Story at Sydney Showground is up there with one of the most colourful and creative pop-ups in town.

Balloon Story is a full-on walk-through world built from over 400,000 balloons, crafted by a team of global artists into themed spaces that feel like stepping into someone's imagination. Get ready to ogle at towering balloon sculptures, bright mazes, interactive spots and loads of quirky photo moments that practically beg kids (and adults) to pause and explore every corner.

Where:  Sydney Showground
When:   From 13 January 2026
Cost:     From $34.90 per child (3-12); $44.90 per adult

Experience Stranger Things at Luna Park

One for the older kids, Stranger Things: The Experience at Luna Park will certainly solve the problem of having nothing to do this weekend!

If you've ever watched Stranger Things and thought, "I would absolutely survive Hawkins"... this is your chance to prove it! Stranger Things: The Experience has taken over Luna Park Sydney, and yes, you are officially the main character now. Step straight into a brand-new, slightly terrifying storyline where Eleven, Dustin, Mike, Lucas, Max and Will need your help uncovering some deeply suspicious goings-on at Hawkins Lab. 

Where:   Crystal Palace, Luna Park, Sydney
When:    Daily until 15 February 2026
Cost:      Standard admission from $57
Age requirement: Ages 5 and up are welcome; ages 13 and under must be accompanied by an adult

Watch Movies Under the Stars

Make it a starry-eyed weekend in Sydney! Grab your picnic rug, favourite snacks and crew for a cosy night out at Moonlight Cinema in Sydney's beautiful Centennial Park.

There's nothing quite like settling in on the grass, popcorn in hand, as a giant outdoor screen lights up with big-screen favourites under the open sky. It's relaxed, magical and perfect for families — movies, fresh air and giggles with fireflies for company make it one of those simple, unforgettable summer experiences everyone will love.

Where:   Belvedere Amphitheatre, Centennial Park
When:    Until 5 April 2026 | Movies start at 8.30 pm
Cost:      General Admission $20, Cinebuzz Members $18, Gold Grass $41, Family Pass $65

Lunar New Year Afternoon Tea

Celebrate Lunar New Year in a way the whole family can enjoy with this special Lunar New Year Afternoon Tea, marking the Year of the Horse with colour, flavour and a touch of occasion.

The Fullerton's Lunar New Year Afternoon Tea is a great opportunity to slow down together and introduce kids to new flavours in a relaxed, festive setting. Families can share a mix of savoury favourites inspired by Central and Southeast Asian flavours, from barbeque duck bao sliders and prawn dumplings to sweet chilli soy prawns and classic quail egg sandwiches. There’s plenty to nibble, sample and pass around the table, making it easy for curious eaters and grown-ups alike.

The sweet spread is where the magic really shines for kids, with delicate mousses in flavours like cherry blossom, mandarin and jasmine, alongside chocolate with yuzu, matcha sponge cakes and fluffy scones with cream! 

Where:  The Fullerton Hotel
When:   Available daily at The Bar from 1-28 February 2026 between 12 and 4 pm
Cost:     From $90 per person

Emma Memma's Picnic at The Grounds

 

The Grounds of Alexandria are back at it with their latest installation, and let's just say, it's full of colour!

Emma Memma's Picnic at The Grounds swaps theatre seats for picnic rugs and lets kids engage on their own terms. Emma Memma leads the session with her trademark mix of music, movement and sign-supported songs. Kids can dance, wander, sit, snack, then jump back in when the mood strikes. 

Where:  The Grounds of Alexandria
When:   Daily until 1 March 2026
Cost:     Emma Memma's picnic is FREE for guests dining at The Grounds

Play All Day at Sydney's Biggest Indoor Playground

Big news for Sydney families! Area 51 Castle Hill, aka Sydney's largest indoor playground, is officially open in the Hills District!

This massive 4,000 sqm indoor adventure world is built for kids aged 3-12 and loaded with action-packed fun. There are multi-level climbing structures, slides to race down, trampoline and dodgeball zones, immersive VR play, and even a snowy 250 sqm Snow World where real snow falls!

With flexible 1- or 2-hour play sessions and comfy viewing areas, it's set to become a favourite go-to destination for local families this summer.

Where:  Home & Co, 16-18 Victoria Ave, Castle Hill
When:   Open daily from 9 am to 9 pm (café until 8.30 pm)
Cost:
Infants
Play for free with any paying guest; $15 if visiting on their own

Snow World
From $25

General Admission

Ages 0-2 (Astrotots Playland)
1 hour - $15
2 hours - $20

Ages 3-4 (Toddler Zone, Gizmos Odyssey & Free Jump)
1 hour - $22
1.5 hours - $27
2 hours - $32

Ages 5-12 (Full venue access*)
1 hour - $22
1.5 hours - $27
2 hours - $32

*Excludes Toddler Zone, Snow World, Dragon Rider VR and Combat VR

 See Pretty Woman: The Musical

Get ready to fall in love all over again as Pretty Woman: The Musical brings Hollywood sparkle to the stage in Sydney.

This dazzling musical adaptation of the iconic romantic comedy is bursting with glamour, charm and all the unforgettable moments you know and love — plus a few fabulous surprises. It's a fun day or night out for families who love big theatrical performances and singing along to great music.

Where: Theatre Royal Sydney, 108 King St, Sydney
When:  Until 4 April 2026
Cost:    From $89

Museum of Contemporary Art Kids and Families Program

The Museum of Contemporary Art's year-round Kids and Families Program is designed to turn little visitors into curious creators through activities just for kids.

There are hands-on art-making sessions, activity trails, guided tours, and family spaces designed to encourage kids to think and create. From messy masterpieces to quiet contemplation, there's something for every kind of young artist at MCA. Plus, their permanent art exhibition features over 4,700 artworks, with a major focus on artists living and working in Australia, including significant works by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists.

Where:     MCA, 140 George Street, The Rocks
When:      Open Wednesday - Monday. 10 am – 5 pm.
                 Closed Tuesdays.
                 Open public holidays, excluding 25 December.
Cost:        Adults $35, Concession $28 + online booking fee.
                 FREE for MCA Members, under 18s and students.

Things to do on Saturday

Enjoy Beats & Bites in Blacktown

Looking for free things to do in Sydney this weekend? Look no further than Beats and Bites in Blacktown!

Beats and Bites turns Blacktown's CBD into a buzzing after-dark hangout, blending live local music with seriously good food. Every Friday and Saturday night, Warrick Lane comes alive with home-grown musicians setting the soundtrack while nearby cafés and street-food favourites dish up crowd-pleasing eats. Wander in, grab a bite, soak up the tunes and settle into the kind of easy, weekend atmosphere that makes you want to linger a little longer.

Where:  Blacktown CBD
When:   Friday and Saturday evenings | 6-8 pm
Cost:     FREE 

Cockatoo Island Sunset Sessions

One of our favourite things to do in Sydney to make the most of the summer sunshine, enjoy live music with Sydney Harbour as the backdrop at Cockatoo Island's Sunser Sessions.

Running Saturday evenings from 10 January to 4 April 2026, Sunset Sessions is an opportunity for ticketholders, including families, to have a picnic on the lawns of historic Biloela House, enjoy a jaw-dropping view of Sydney Harbour, and be taken to their happy place by a diverse line-up of performers curated by Music & Booze Co.

Where:  Bileola Lawn (Upper Island), Cockatoo Island, Sydney Harbour
When:   Saturday evenings from 10 January to 4 April 2026
Cost:     $38 per ticket | Children 12 and under FREE

Go For a FREE Balance Bike Lesson

Do you have a child aged 3 to 8 who could use a helping hand with their balance bike? Sydney Park Cycling Centre is offering FREE balance bike clinics every Saturday!

Instructors are available to help parents teach their children, and there is a range of bikes for children to use as they build confidence and ability. This interactive class is designed to engage parents in their children's learning. Bikes and helmets are provided, or you can bring your own.

There's no need to book, you can just turn up and register with the instructors at the Sydney Park Cycling Centre!

Where:  Sydney Park Cycling Centre, 410 Sydney Park Rd, Alexandria
When:   Saturdays from 9 am to 11 am
Cost:     FREE

Skate at a Weekend Ice Disco

Get ready to hit the ice, ice, baby this weekend in Sydney!

Join Liverpool Catholic Club for an unforgettable Ice Disco weekend event where you can show off your moves under dazzling lights while a DJ spins your favourite tunes.

Open to all ages and skill levels, the fun runs from 8 to 10.30 pm every Friday and Saturday night.

Where:  Liverpool Catholic Club
When:   Friday and Saturday nights from 8-10.30 pm
Cost:     Non-members: Adults from $25; kids from $22; Family passes (2 adults & 2 kids) from $90

Things to do on Sunday

Shop for MagnifiqueTreats at Le Marché French Markets

Start your week off right with a handful of magnifique treats you bought the day before at the Le Marché French Markets!

On the first Sunday of every month, The Entertainment Quarter's Market Canopy is transformed into a vibrant celebration of all things French. Take your time perusing the market stalls, admiring the craftsmanship, and soaking up the lively atmosphere. And when hunger strikes, fear not! The hot food stalls have got you covered with an array of mouthwatering dishes, from buttery escargots and hearty boeuf bourguignon to indulgent raclette and truffle-infused rotisserie chicken — yum!

Where:  The Entertainment Quarter
When:   The first Sunday of the month from 9.30 am to 2 pm
Cost:     FREE entry

FREE & Cheap This Weekend

Giant Art Summer at the Art Gallery of New South Wales

Free, fun and educational go hand-in-hand this weekend in Sydney at the Art Gallery of NSW.

If you're after a free and cheap outing this weekend, the Art Gallery of New South Wales is a perfect pick. Entry to the main Gallery is free, and it's open daily (10 am – 5 pm, and until 10 pm on Wednesdays) with plenty to explore.

Wander through inspiring artwork from across eras, join a family-friendly art trail or drop-in workshop, or just soak up the creative atmosphere with kids in tow. Kids will love playing at the famous Mike Hewson: The Key's Under the Mat Playground. There are also affordable events — from guided tours and talks to late-night Art After Hours events — and exhibitions suitable for all ages (many with free admission for children).

Where:  Art Gallery of NSW
When:   Open daily 10 am – 5 pm
Cost:     FREE entry

Alchemy of a Rainforest at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

Alchemy of a Rainforest at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney is a spectacular immersive exhibition that will transport you into the heart of a lush rainforest — right in the city!

Step inside The Calyx and wander through towering walk-through plant installations, vibrant garden sculptures and one of the largest living green walls in the Southern Hemisphere, all brought to life by rare tropical and subtropical rainforest plants.

It's free to experience (gold coin donations are appreciated) and open daily from about 10 am to 4 pm — perfect for a relaxed weekend activity where kids and adults can explore art, nature and creativity together without spending a cent.

Where:  The Calyx at Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney
When:    Open daily from 10 am to 4 pm; see the website for closures.
Cost:      FREE - gold coin donations are appreciated

The Rocks Markets

 

If you're chasing a free and fun weekend activity in Sydney for the whole family, swing by The Rocks Markets, one of our favourite markets in Sydney with lively open-air stalls tucked into one of the city's most historic neighbourhoods. It runs every Saturday and Sunday from about 10 am to 5 pm, with seasonal Friday markets, too.

Wander through cobblestone laneways lined with artisanal stalls showcasing handmade jewellery, fashion, artworks, and unique homewares, and soak up live music and vibrant energy as you browse.

There's no entry fee — you only pay if you buy something — so it's a great budget-friendly outing, whether you're after a lazy morning stroll, cool gifts, or a tasty bite from street food vendors with views of the Harbour Bridge just a short walk away.

Where:   The Rocks, Sydney
When:    Saturdays and Sundays
Cost:      FREE

Carriageworks Farmers Market

For more local market shopping, you can't beat the weekly Carriageworks Farmers Market.

Fresh produce, unique market finds, organic goods and more are available every Saturday at Sydney's premier fresh produce destination. Stroll the sheds and browse colourful stalls piled high with seasonal fruit and veg, fresh bread, pastries, flowers and handmade treats, all from local NSW growers and producers. There's plenty to nibble on as you go, making it ideal for little legs and curious eaters.

Where:   245 Wilson St, Eveleigh
When:    Saturdays from 8 am to 1 pm
Cost:      FREE

More Things to Do in Sydney This Weekend

For families who can't get enough of Sydney, there's loads more to see and do with our handy ellaslist guides! For outdoor lovers, check out the Top Outdoor Activities in Sydney for Kids, Fun Family Fruit-Picking Venues, and Sydney's Best Family Beaches. If the weather is a little dreary, we've got you covered with Rainy Day Activities for all ages. 

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