Sydney is pretty much Australia's de facto capital city (or, at least, internationally), and it makes sense. The city is a bustling, vibrant hub of activity all year round. Sydney gets the best of the best—international performers never skip out, and world-class artisans are called here from all over the globe to say they've visited one of the most recognisable cities in the world. Despite the international involvement, some of the best events Sydney has to offer are homegrown and more than speak for themselves.
The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras is one of Sydney's calendar highlights, even for those not involved in the community. This Mardi Gras tops lists globally for best Mardi Gras, running from mid-February to early March each year. With 47 years of history, this festival not only serves as an affirming event for Sydney's LGBT community but also as a massive party for the city! Events include concerts, DJ sets, pool parties, comedy gigs, and the iconic parade. The heritage-listed route features over 200 floats from Hyde Park to Moore Park. It's an unforgettable spectacle not to miss wouldn't miss if you are in Sydney during the festival.
Sydney Festival is the largest arts festival in the city and a must-see event for arts lovers citywide. Since 1977, the festival has run across Greater Sydney, commissioning new Australian works of theatre and dance and hosting major Aussie musicians alongside up-and-comers, and that isn't even mentioning the international acts and artists drawn to the festival. This summer festival regularly introduces newcomers to new favourites, whether that be the artist or the diverse range of venues the festival is hosted in. A testament to Sydney's summer weather is the number of outdoor events held as part of the festival; think trapeze in Darling Harbour, sculptures in Bondi Pavillion and the evening Sydney Symphony show at The Crescent, complete with fireworks.
If you're particularly keen on seeing the night lights of Sydney, Vivid Sydney is a winter festival (late May to mid-June) that sees the lights come alive. 3D light projections cover some of Sydney's most iconic buildings, accompanied by live performances. 2025's festival will see an animation directly onto the sails of the Sydney Opera House. For a smaller-scale outdoor projection, Moonlight Cinema Sydney runs an annual film program that starts in Centennial Park every summer, which is perfect for a picnic.
Sydney's Royal Easter Show is another irresistible event, especially for kids on school holidays. The typical fixtures of rides and show bags are plentiful, along with the deceptively good fried carnival food. The first show was held in 1823, surprisingly not the oldest in Australia. Nevertheless, it's attended by over 800,000 each year at Sydney Olympic Park, respecting its history as an agricultural show by consistently hosting nationally accredited competitions and shows and, of course, a pavilion to pet and meet some farmyard animals.