Top 10 events happening in Sydney in 2026

Sydney is gearing up for an unforgettable year in 2026, with a packed calendar of festivals, sporting spectacles, cultural celebrations and major international events. Whether you’re a local planning your next adventure or a traveller looking to time your visit perfectly, the Harbour City has something happening in almost every season.

From world-class art and lively street festivals to epic sports and dazzling nighttime experiences, here are the top 10 events you won’t want to miss in Sydney in 2026!

Image: Exploring NSW Coast by motorhome

1.  United Cup – 2 to 11 January 2026

The United Cup launches Sydney’s events calendar with a high-energy, mixed-team tennis tournament featuring top men’s and women’s players competing together for national glory. As one of the lead-up events to the Australian Open, Sydney hosts several key matches, giving fans an early look at world-class talent.

🌟 Highlight: Great summer timing for visitors, and perfect to pair with beach days and harbour sightseeing.

2.  Sydney Festival – 8 to 25 January 2026

Sydney Festival brings the city to life every summer with a vibrant mix of theatre, dance, live music, outdoor installations and cultural performances. The 2026 edition marks the festival’s 50th anniversary, making it an extra special year filled with standout shows and large-scale public events across the CBD, Parramatta and harbour precincts.

🌟 Highlight: Free outdoor performances and large public installations perfect for families and visitors.

3.  Sydney Chinese New Year Festival

Sydney’s Chinese New Year Festival is one of the largest Lunar New Year celebrations outside Asia, bringing colour, culture and community spirit to the city. Across several weeks, the CBD and surrounding suburbs come alive with lantern displays, street markets, lion dances and family-friendly festivities welcoming the Year of the Horse.

🌟 Highlight: Dragon boat racing on Darling Harbour, one of the festival’s most iconic events

Image: Lunar New Year, Sydney, Destination NSW

4.  Mov’in Bed – Late November to March 2026

Experience one of Sydney’s coolest summer events, city’s ultimate outdoor cinema. From late November 2025 to March 2026, Barangaroo’s Harbour Park transforms into a dreamy beach setting with 280 tonnes of white sand, 120 queen beds, and 50 king beds. Snuggle up under the stars and enjoy new releases and classic films on Australia’s largest outdoor screen.

🌟 Highlight: A fun, relaxed picnic-style vibe — bring a blanket, snacks and enjoy under the stars.

Image: Mov'in Bed Beach Cinema, Barangaroo, Destination NSW

5.  AFC Women’s Asian Cup – 1 to 21 March 2026

The AFC Women’s Asian Cup returns in 2026, with Sydney hosting several key matches, including the final. As the premier tournament for women’s football in Asia, it brings together top national teams and rising stars, drawing passionate crowds and international attention to Australia’s sporting scene.

🌟 Highlight: A great follow-up to Australia’s growing love of women’s football after the Matildas’ global success.

6.  Biennale of Sydney – 14 March to 14 June 2026

One of the world’s leading contemporary art festivals, the Biennale of Sydney transforms the city with large-scale exhibitions, installations and performances. The 2026 edition, themed “Rememory,” showcases thought-provoking works from local and international artists across museums, galleries and unique industrial spaces.

🌟 Highlight: Free admission to most exhibitions, making it accessible to all visitors.

Image: 19th Biennale of Sydney, Destination NSW

7.  Sydney Royal Easter Show – Early April 2026

The Sydney Royal Easter Show is one of Australia’s biggest annual events, celebrating agriculture, entertainment and family fun. For two weeks, Sydney Showground transforms into a lively festival filled with rides, animals, competitions and iconic showbags.

🌟 Highlight: With food stalls, tasting experiences and Sydney’s famous showbags, it’s a perfect day out for families, with something for every age.

Image: Sydney Royal Easter Show, Sydney, Destination NSW

8.  Vivid Sydney – 22 May to 13 June 2026

Vivid Sydney lights up the city with breathtaking projections, immersive installations, live music and creative workshops. It’s one of Sydney’s most photographed annual events, attracting millions of visitors to enjoy the city after dark.

🌟 Highlight: Light trails throughout Circular Quay, The Rocks, Barangaroo and Darling Harbour

Image: Vivid Sydney 2025, Destination NSW

9.  TCS Sydney Marathon – 30 August 2026

The TCS Sydney Marathon is one of the world’s premier long-distance running events, taking athletes past some of the city’s most scenic landmarks. With multiple race categories, it attracts elite runners, casual joggers and enthusiastic spectators.

🌟 Highlight: Ideal for sports travellers looking to combine fitness with sightseeing.

Image: Running with views of the Sydney Opera House, Destination NSW

10.  NRL Grand Final – October 2026

The NRL Grand Final is one of the biggest sporting events in Australia, and Sydney will once again host the high-stakes showdown at Accor Stadium. Thousands of fans unite to cheer on their teams in a massive end-of-season spectacle.

🌟 Highlight: Electrifying stadium atmosphere with pre-game entertainment and festivities with food stalls and family-friendly activities.

Image: NRL Rugby League Grand Final, Destination NSW

With world-class festivals, major sporting moments and vibrant cultural celebrations, Sydney in 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting years yet. Whether you're planning a summer getaway, a cultural escape or a full city adventure, these events offer the perfect reason to explore everything the Harbour City has to offer.

And if you want the freedom to experience Sydney (and the rest of Australia) at your own pace, there’s no better way to travel than by road.

Start Planning Your Trip!

Hire a motorhome in Sydney with Cruisin’ Motorhomes and turn your event itinerary into an unforgettable holiday. Explore the coast, discover hidden gems and enjoy the comfort of your own home on wheels — all with the flexibility to go wherever the journey takes you.

Call our friendly reservations team on 1300 664 485 or check out our website to see the motorhomes we have available at our branches!

✨ Need inspiration? Check out our detailed itineraries and our blog articles for our latest motorhome tips!

Follow us for daily travel inspiration! Don’t hesitate to share your Cruisin’ Motorhomes adventure with us with the #cruisinmoments!