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.

GLOW has returned to Sydney Zoo and is putting on quite the illuminating show for Sydney families. Autumn is upon us, which means the outdoors is calling, but not to enjoy the heat! Autumn colours are in full swing, as well as plenty of autumn adventures for kids. There are markets galore to shop for fresh foods, second-hand treasures, and one-of-a-kind gifts. And if all that isn't enough, there's a mesmerising installation at The Grounds, Blacktown City Festival, Mother's Day high teas, and a FREE Underwater Exhibition to keep you busy.

Have a good one, folks! 

All events featured in this guide are run by independent organisers, with details sourced from their official websites at the time of publishing. We do our best to keep everything up to date, but cancellations can occur. It's always a good idea to double-check the latest information on the official event pages before heading out.

What's On in Sydney This Weekend

Things to do All Weekend

Things to do on Saturday

Things to do on Sunday

FREE & Cheap This Weekend in Sydney
 

Things to do All Weekend in Sydney

1. Enter a Glowy Universe at GLOW

GLOW at Sydney Zoo is back to prove that bedtime is merely a suggestion!

From 8 May to 14 June 2026, Sydney Zoo transforms into a wild after-dark wonderland, with glowing animal lanterns, interactive light installations, playful projections, shimmering pathways and a very photogenic giant GLOW lion waiting for its close-up.

Families can wander the GLOW Light Walk, spot luminous creatures, follow glowing paw prints, warm up by the campfire and refuel with wintery bites and sweet treats along the way. The GLOW Zone brings the extra energy, with carnival-style fun including dodgem cars, a Ferris wheel, a jumping castle, a giant slide and more. Basically, it's part zoo adventure, part light festival, part family negotiation over ride tokens, and a very bright excuse to get out after dark.

Where:  Sydney Zoo, 700 Great Western Hwy, Bungarribee
When:   8 May to 14 June 2026 | 5-10 pm
Cost:     Tickets start from $19.99, and free onsite parking is included.

2. Have a Ball at Blacktown City Festival

Blacktown City Festival is rolling into May with a whole month of free and ticketed family fun, so clear the calendar and maybe start stretching now.

Running from 3 to 30 May 2026 across multiple Blacktown locations, the festival packs in everything from picnic-friendly live music at Vibes by the Lake to the Riverstone Festival, Sweet Indulgence Dessert Festival and the huge Streets Alive and Parade Day finale with markets, food trucks, roving performers, petting zoo, lawn games, superheroes and more. The big crowd-pleaser for kids is the Blacktown City Medieval Fayre, where families can step into a world of jousting, knights, medieval markets and enough dramatic sword energy to make your children suddenly very interested in history.

With more than 80,000 people expected across the celebrations, this is Blacktown doing community festival fun on a very big, very lively scale!

Where:   Multiple locations in Blacktown
When:    Sunday 3 May to Saturday 30 May 2026
Cost:      FREE and ticketed events

3. Watch Amazing Acrobatic Acts at Stardust Circus

Stardust Circus is loaded with big-top energy, flying trapeze thrills and just enough gasp-worthy stunts to make even parents suddenly very aware of gravity.

This classic Aussie circus brings the whole family under the red-and-yellow big top for a two-hour show packed with high-wire acts, aerial performers, magic, clowns, the Wheel of Death, and animal acts, including dogs, pigs, and goats.

Families can catch the circus at Penrith until 24 May, Castle Hill from 29 May to 21 June, and Rosehill from 26 June to 26 July, with a mix of evening and family-friendly daytime sessions. 

Where & When:
Penrith Paceway - 1-24 May 2026
127-141 Station St, Penrith 

Castle Hill Showgrounds - 29 May to 21 June 2026
Showgrounds Rd

Rosehill Racecourse Carpark - 26 June to 26 July 2026
Cnr James Ruse Drive and Grand Ave

Cost:  Tickets start at $30 per child and $40 per adult

4. Step Into the World of Vincent van Gogh

There's a breathtaking new installation in town, and it'll make you feel like you've been transported to the 19th century. Sunflowers and Swirls at The Grounds of Alexandria has transformed the famous laneways into a world of amazing art by Vincent van Gogh!

The laneways at The Grounds have had a dramatic makeover with Sunflowers and Swirls, an immersive display drawing on the bold, emotive style of Vincent van Gogh. Expect a wash of golden hues, inky blues and sweeping patterns that transform the space into something straight out of an artist's imagination.

Little ones will be instantly captivated as they wander through the vibrant walkways, while adults tend to pause for a closer look (and a well-timed snap). There's something new to spot around every bend, inviting you to slow your pace and soak up the details.

Please note that installations at The Grounds are exclusively reserved for those dining at The Cafe, The Potting Shed, or The Garden.

Where: The Grounds of Alexandria
When:   Daily until 21 June 2026
Cost:     Entry is FREE for guests dining at The Grounds.

5. See Sydney Up Close on a Family Tour of the Observatory

Step into Sydney's scientific story this weekend with a guided family tour at Sydney Observatory, created for small groups with kids aged six and over.

Set on the highest natural point in Sydney Cove, the experience kicks off outdoors with a look at how the site once helped the city function — from flag signalling and timekeeping to tracking the weather for ships arriving in the harbour. Then, you'll wind your way up narrow staircases and into the Observatory's domes, where historic instruments sit alongside modern telescopes. Along the way, guides translate big scientific ideas into stories and demonstrations that actually land with kids.

Running time is approximately one hour.

Where:  1003 Upper Fort St, Millers Point 
When:   Available Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 12.30-8 pm
Cost:     $36 per adult; $24 per child (ages 6-12)

6. Enter a Real-Life Upside Down House at House Down Under in Sydney

Looking for unique things to do this weekend in Sydney? Head to House Down Under, a quirky, family-friendly attraction that quite literally flips your world upside down! 

Inside this topsy-turvy house, everything — from couches to kitchen sinks — hangs from the ceiling, creating a mind-bending space where you can pose, snap photos and then rotate them to look like you're walking on walls or dangling mid-air. It's quick, playful and guaranteed to get plenty of laughs (and camera roll content), making it a fun, easy outing when you're after something a bit out of the ordinary

Where:   Market Square, Rouse Hill Town Centre, Rouse Hill 
When:    Weekdays: 12 pm to 6 pm
               Weekends: 10 am to 6 pm
Cost:      Single Tickets (including kids 4 and over) - $21 per person
               Groups of 3 or more (including kids) - $19 per person
               Kids Under 4 - FREE

7. See Disney's The Lion King Live on Stage

Can you feel the love tonight!? We certainly hope so, because Disney's The Lion King musical is finally coming to the stage this weekend in Sydney!

From the spine-tingling opening notes of "Circle of Life" to the awe-inspiring parade of animals through the aisles, this visually stunning production transforms the stage into the African savanna. With unforgettable music, ingenious puppetry and a story that tugs at the heartstrings, it's a standout thing to do in Sydney this weekend that'll leave audiences of all ages utterly enchanted.

Where:   Sydney's Capitol Theatre
When:    From 18 April to 9 August 2026
Cost:     Tickets range from $80 to $145

8. Autumn Adventures at Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan

If you're chasing a relaxed outdoor adventure this weekend in Sydney, the Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan is hard to beat.

Set across 416 hectares of rolling hills, lakes and open green space, these incredible gardens are open for kids to roam, run and properly stretch their legs while you soak up those crisp autumn vibes. There's plenty to explore, from scenic walks like the Central Valley and Woodland trails to guided tours and hands-on programs for little nature lovers, plus regular events like Parkrun and family-friendly sessions that bring the gardens to life.

Whether you're packing a picnic, joining a tour or just wandering at your own pace, it's an easy, fresh-air outing that ticks all the boxes for a family day out.

Check out our full guide to what's on this autumn.

9. Spot Some Glorious Autumn Colours

Another one of our favourite things to do on weekends in Sydney during autumn is to go hunting for incredible autumn colours!

Chasing autumn colours is one of the easiest (and prettiest) ways to spend a weekend in Sydney right now. From late April into early May, the city starts to glow with warm reds, golds and burnt oranges, with leafy pockets like the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, Centennial Park and Parramatta putting on a surprisingly vibrant show. Wander through tree-lined paths, kick through crunchy leaves or roll out a picnic under golden canopies —there's no need to travel far to find that full autumn moment.

If you're up for a mini adventure, cooler spots like the Blue Mountains and Southern Highlands dial up the colour even more, but even a simple stroll close to home delivers that crisp-air, cosy-season magic.

Check out our guide to the best spots for autumn colours in Sydney.

Things to do on Saturday in Sydney

10. Attend PLC Sydney's Annual Open Day and Fair

Looking for a fun-filled day out with the family this Saturday in Sydney? Look no further than the PLC Sydney Annual Open Day and Fair!

The PLC Sydney Open Day and Fair is a highlight of the school year and a fantastic day of celebration featuring academic displays, sporting events, and musical performances across both the Junior and Senior Schools. Guided tours will run every 15 minutes, so you can explore the grounds of this beautiful school in Sydney's Inner West. In addition to all of the activities, they have loads of fun carnival rides all day, a variety of delicious food stalls, an array of market stalls and a silent auction.

Where:   PLC Sydney, Meta Street, Croydon
When:    Saturday 9 May 2026 | 10 am to 4 pm
Cost:      FREE entry

11. Shop Up a Storm at EQ Markets

If you can't get enough of market shopping in Sydney, EQ's Market Canopy comes alive with a colourful mix of stalls, scents and sounds that make it very hard to just pop in for one thing! Locals know the drill: arrive hungry, leave with a tote bag full of goodies you didn't plan on buying (but absolutely needed).

EQ Markets is where you'll find everything from farm-fresh fruit and veg to crusty artisan breads, small-batch cheeses and street food worth lining up for. Whether you're grabbing ingredients for dinner or treating yourself to something delicious on the spot, there's plenty to tempt even the pickiest eaters.

Beyond the food, EQ Markets are packed with stalls selling boutique fashion, handmade jewellery, homewares and gifts you won't spot in your usual shopping centres. There's always something happening, from live music to street performers bringing extra energy to the space. 

Where:  Entertainment Quarter, 122 Lang Road, Moore Park (under The Market Canopy)
When:   Every Wednesday and Saturday from 8 am to 2 pm
Cost:     FREE

12. Meet Your Favourite Animals at Symbio Wildlife Park

With the weather looking pretty sunny this weekend in Sydney, visiting Symbio Wildlife Park is a brilliant excuse to get the kids outdoors, meet a few furry faces and pretend the whole outing was educational, not just a very cute photo mission.

Set in Helensburgh, just south of Sydney, Symbio is packed with family-friendly animal encounters, from hand-feeding kangaroos and wallabies to spotting koalas, meerkats, red pandas, lemurs, penguins, reptiles and farmyard favourites. There's also an adventure playground, picnic areas, an on-site cafe, and, when the weather plays nice, the Splash Park for kids who believe dry clothes are optional!

Where:  7-11 Lawrence Hargrave Drive, Helensburgh
When:   Open from 9.30 am to 5 pm daily
Cost:     $47 per adult; $32 per child (3-15 years); under 3s go FREE

13. Play at One of Sydney's Top Playgrounds

With the autumn weather putting on such a glorious show this weekend in Sydney, why not hit up the playground?

From epic swirly slides to water play, pump tracks, swings, flying fox, play stations, and sensory fun, we've got an epic list of awesome Sydney playgrounds for all ages. Plus, many of these have barbecue facilities and coffee nearby — winning!

Things to do on Sunday in Sydney

14. Treat Mum to a Decadent Mother's Day High Tea

Treat Mum to a very yummy Mother's Day high tea in Sydney this Sunday, because nothing says we love you quite like tiny cakes, bubbles and children doing their best to behave in a hotel restaurant.

Families can go extra glam at Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney, where Croft Restaurant is serving a Mother's Day High Tea Buffet with savoury bites, sweet treats, a live churro and chocolate station, a Mimosa on arrival for Mum and under-fives eating free.

Over at Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour, the high tea experience brings the fancy factor with French pastries, delicate finger sandwiches, handcrafted desserts, warm scones, floral styling and Champagne for the grown-ups.

Whichever seating you pick, it's the perfect excuse to dress everyone nicely, spoil Mum rotten and let the kids discover that cucumber sandwiches can, in fact, be exciting.

For more Mother's Day ideas, check out our list of Mother's Day events in Sydney.

15. Explore Alchemy of a Rainforest

Ready to be whisked away into the heart of a rainforest? The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney is inviting families to step into an enchanted world with their immersive exhibition, Alchemy of a Rainforest.

For just $1, this magical experience will transport you to a lush, green paradise without leaving the city. You'll be greeted by towering walk-through sculptures and a glittering, undulating canopy, all reimagined with recycled materials by the talented crew at ERTH. The canopy shimmers overhead, inviting you to look up and let your imagination soar.

Where:  The Calyx at Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney
When:   Open daily from 10 am to 4 pm; see the website for closures.
Cost:     Entry by gold coin donation

16. Hit the Road on a Classic Sunday Drive

Pack the snacks, load the playlist, and prepare for at least one "are we there yet?" before you've left the driveway — a 2-hour Sunday drive from Sydney is a very wholesome way to rescue the weekend.

Our ellaslist round-up covers easy family escapes under around two hours from the city, from riverside picnics and pram-friendly boardwalks at Bobbin Head to doughnut stops in Berry, apple-country adventures in Bilpin, rainforest wandering at Minnamurra, coastal fun on the Central Coast, action-packed pit stops in Penrith, country cafes in Bowral and classic Blue Mountains views.

Whether your crew is chasing bushwalks, bakeries, beaches, playgrounds, animal encounters or just somewhere scenic to eat hot chips in the car, it's the kind of low-effort family adventure that makes Sunday feel like a mini holiday.

Check out our list of the top 10 Sunday drives less than 2 hours from Sydney.

17. Stroll Through The Rocks Markets

How about a little market shopping to brighten your Saturday or Sunday in Sydney? The Rocks Markets are on every Saturday and Sunday and have some of the best stalls in Sydney with killer views to boot.

At The Rocks Markets, you'll discover the finest in food, art, design, music, and wellness, all brought together for great weekend fun. Enjoy free yoga classes, mingle with traders, check out demonstrations, and shop for unique artwork and jewellery. And of course, don't miss out on the delicious market bites!

Where:  The Rocks, Sydney
When:   Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am to 5 pm
Cost:     FREE

FREE & Cheap This Weekend in Sydney

18. Save With the Fratelli Fresh Family Table For 4 Offer

Dining with kids in Sydney is expensive! Save a few extra dollars this weekend in Sydney with this tantalising family meal offer from Fratelli Fresh.

For $85, families dining at any Fratelli Fresh venue will get a pasta and pizza for the grown-ups, two kids' meals, plus fries and a fresh rocket salad to share, all available any time of day for dine-in or takeaway! 

Where:  Available at Fratelli Fresh venues in Darling Harbour, Entertainment Quarter, Manly, Westfield Sydney, and Westfield Miranda
When:   Available all day, every day for dine-in or takeaway
Cost:     $85 for a family of 4

19. Go Deep Under Water at Ultimate Depth

Ultimate Depth at the Australian National Maritime Museum is taking families on a deep-sea adventure without the need for wetsuits, submarines or anyone saying "are we there yet?" 

This immersive temporary exhibition dives from the ocean's bright, sunlit surface all the way down to the deepest, darkest parts of the sea, exploring five incredible ocean zones and the weird, wonderful creatures that call them home.

Kids can make their own deep-sea creature and release it into the Midnight Zone, learn how ocean life survives under crushing pressure, and come face-to-face with James Cameron's famous DEEPSEA CHALLENGER submersible, which travelled to the Mariana Trench in 2012.

Where:  Australian National Maritime Museum, Darling Harbour
When:   Now on
Cost:     FREE entry

20. Explore The Curious World of Pamela Allen at the State Library of NSW

Step straight into storytime at The Curious World of Pamela Allen, a delightful exhibition bringing her much-loved books to life for the very first time in Australia.

Now open at the State Library of New South Wales, this immersive experience invites families to wander through the playful worlds behind classics like Mr Archimedes' Bath, Alexander's Outing and Who Sank the Boat?

Little readers can slide beneath Mr McGee's tree, interact with oversized storybook pages, splash alongside familiar animal characters and dress up as their favourites, all while discovering cosy corners made for quiet reading. Equal parts exhibition and hands-on play space, it's a joyful outing designed for families to explore, imagine and share a love of storytelling together.

Where:  State Library of NSW, 1 Shakespeare Place, Sydney
When:   Until July 2027
Cost:     FREE

21. Free Balance Bike Clinics at Sydney Park Cycling Centre

Do you have a child aged between three and eight who could use a helping hand with their balance bike? Sydney Park Cycling Centre is offering FREE balance bike clinics every Saturday!

Instructors are on hand to help parents teach their own children, and there is a range of bikes for children to use as they grow in confidence and ability. This is an interactive class designed to get parents involved 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

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About ellaslist

ellaslist is a trusted local guide for families across Sydney and NSW, written by parents, carers and family lifestyle editors who understand what makes an outing with kids genuinely work. Our team researches and curates the best family-friendly events, attractions, playgrounds, restaurants and school holiday activities, with practical details on age suitability, accessibility, parking, public transport, facilities and family-friendly tips.

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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