Looking for something fun to do this weekend? Sydney is buzzing with colour and creativity this weekend, from twilight adventures at Taronga Zoo to the spring blooms of the Leura Gardens Festival in the Blue Mountains. Add in outdoor art, family-friendly shows, inflatable fun, and vibrant markets, and you’ve got the perfect mix of activities to explore all weekend long. Here’s your weekend sorted!
Spring is in the air! There are plenty of Fairs, Fetes and Festivals happening across the North Shore. Head to Taronga After Dark as the zoo transforms into a twilight wonderland filled with discovery, adventure, and plenty of family fun. Or you can head to celebrate the beauty of spring in the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains at the Leura Gardens Festival 2025.
Ku-ring-gai’s Sculpture Trail celebrates sustainable art in the outdoors at Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden. It is on until 6 October, showcasing 46 diverse sculptures created by both professional and amateur artists.
There are also plenty of live shows to take the kids to:
- Experience a heartwarming tale of friendship and wonder by beloved author Oliver Jeffers, brought to life with live music by an ACO Quartet.
- Contagiously upbeat and full of heart, the ever-innovative Mario the Maker Magician leads you through an explosion of handmade art and robot magic for all ages. He’s “magic’s punk rock Peter Pan philosopher!” Do what you love, use what you have and have fun!
- Join the magical fairies as they go on an exciting musical adventure! Tinkerbell and the Dream Fairies is showing at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney during the Spring School Holidays.
Australia’s biggest inflatable attraction is back these Spring Holidays from this Saturday! Monster Jump is a massive 280-metre obstacle course packed with 30+ epic inflatable challenges for all ages. Race your mates, bounce your way through tunnels and slides, or enjoy the chaos at your own pace.
Step into Echoes at Bella Vista Farm and immerse yourself in a breathtaking nighttime sound and light show, where history, culture, and imagination come to life through glowing installations, vibrant storytelling, and unforgettable interactive experiences.
Looking for a great day trip? With ferry rides, historic landmarks, wide-open spaces, and now a brand-new self-guided family tour designed especially for kids aged 6 to 10, Cockatoo Island is packed with affordable (and even free!) ways to keep young minds and bodies busy.
There are plenty of markets happening around the North Shore and beyond this weekend! On Saturday, there are St Ives Organic Markets, EQ Markets, Berowra Community Markets, Surry Hills Vintage Market, Northside Produce Market and Mosman Market. On Sunday, enjoy Kirribilli Markets or the weekly Mona Vale Organic Food Market at Pittwater RSL.
Things to do all long weekend
1. Taronga After Dark
These school holidays, Taronga Zoo Sydney is opening its gates after hours for a magical new event for families and friends. Taronga After Dark invites guests to experience Taronga in a whole new way – after the sun sets and when the stars come out.
Running for ten unforgettable nights from Friday 3 to Sunday 12 October (5:30pm – 9:00pm), Taronga After Dark transforms the Zoo into a twilight wonderland filled with discovery, adventure, and plenty of family fun.
As dusk falls over Sydney Harbour, little adventurers can follow lantern-lit trails through the Zoo, encounter some incredible wildlife after dark, and enjoy a captivating Mermaid Show at the Seal Theatre. The evening also features a special Sunset Seals for the Wild presentation, perfect for animal lovers of all ages.
- When: 3 October 2025 to 12 October 2025, 5.30pm to 9pm
- Where: Taronga Zoo, Bradleys Head Road, Mosman
- Cost: Adults (15+) $41 | Children (4-15) $36 | Concession $37.80 | Under 3’s free
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
2. Echoes Light and Sound Show, Bella Vista
Step into Echoes to experience a captivating, nighttime sound and light show journeying through the rich history of Bella Vista Farm until 6 October 2025.
Highlights:
- Travel along the reimagined convict road, wander through vibrant flower fields, and witness the stargazing stories of the Dharug People, alongside early pioneers Elizabeth and John Macarthur.
- The night walk features custom soundscapes, vibrant light installations, pulsating special effects and unmissable interactive zones.
- An evening filled with multi-sensory fun, wonder, light and excitement.
- Bring the whole family and grab dinner from one of the on-site food trucks.
Low-sensory sessions are also available for neurodivergent attendees or those with sensory needs. These sessions have smaller crowds and lower-intensity light displays.
On-site parking is limited. Attendees are encouraged to catch the Metro to Bella Vista Station. A shuttle bus will run from Bella Vista Metro to Bella Vista Farm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.
- When: Until Monday, 6 October 2025
- Where: Bella Vista Farm, Elizabeth Macarthur Drive, Bella Vista
- Cost: Adults: $17.50 | Children (3 – 17 years): $12.50 | Family $49 | Infants (U2): FREE
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
3. Australian Chamber Orchestra: Where to Hide a Star
Experience a heartwarming tale of friendship and wonder by beloved author Oliver Jeffers, brought to life with live music by an ACO Quartet.
Kids can enjoy free creative play activities in the foyer before and after the show, while parents soak in stunning harbour views. The performance lasts 30 minutes and includes a special post-show ‘Meet the Musicians’ session. Ideal for children aged 3 to 8 years.
- When: 1 – 11 October 2025
- Where: ACO On The Pier, 13A Hickson Road, Dawes Point
- Cost: $39 for children and adults (babes-in-arms free)
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
4. Leura Garden’s Festival
Celebrate the beauty of spring in the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains at the Leura Gardens Festival 2025. Running this October, the festival invites visitors to explore eight stunning cool-climate gardens, each showcasing the unique charm and vibrant colours of the season.
From dazzling rhododendrons, azaleas and tulips to the delicate blossoms of dogwoods, maples and ornamental cherries, the festival is a floral feast for the senses. Whether you’re a passionate gardener seeking inspiration or wish to enjoy a day surrounded by nature’s splendour, the Leura Gardens Festival promises something special for everyone.
Festival tickets are valid for the entire duration, allowing visitors to enjoy the gardens at their own pace. A convenient hop-on, hop-off bus service connects all festival gardens, Leura Station and Wentworth Falls.
All proceeds from the festival support the local hospital and community charities – making your visit both beautiful and meaningful.
- When: Friday 3 – Monday 6 October 2025
- Where: Leura
- Cost: $40 to visit all gardens | $20 to visit three gardens | $10 per individual garden
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
5. Ku-ring-gai’s Sculpture Trail
Ku-ring-gai’s Sculpture Trail celebrates sustainable art in the outdoors at Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden. It will run 6 September until 6 October showcasing 46 diverse sculptures created by both professional and amateur artists.
Don’t forget to stop by the Visitor Centre to vote for your favourite sculpture to win the 2025 People’s Choice Award.
- When: Until Monday, 6 October 2025
- Where: Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden, St Ives
- Cost: $25-$30
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
6. Monster Jump
Australia’s biggest inflatable attraction is back these Spring Holidays… and bigger than ever! Monster Jump is a massive 280-metre obstacle course packed with 30+ epic inflatable challenges for all ages. Race your mates, bounce your way through tunnels and slides, or just enjoy the chaos at your own pace.
This time, it’s at two locations for double the fun – Entertainment Quarter & Parramatta Park
- When: Daily from Saturday, 27 September until Sunday, 12 October, 10am-4pm
- Where: The Entertainment Quarter, Lang Road, Moore Park | Parramatta Park
- Cost: 2hr Pass: $30 (5+), $45 Toddler + Adult | Spectators FREE
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
7. Murmur
Direct from Europe, Murmur is both a circus and a sound theatre for families. Daringly, it engages all the senses – with rustling sound backpacks, a landscape of speakers, and an acrobatic composer! This is an imaginative performance for everyone who sometimes longs to be more than just human.
Camiel is creating a world filled with sounds. A purring cat comes from a pocket, a swarm of bees flies through the air, and two arms generate the sound of cars. Far away, you hear a finger squeaking on a window. Sea becomes wind becomes breath.
Surrounded by the audience, Camiel jumps, falls, rolls and flies in his attempt to compose the world. Suddenly, the audience’s backpacks start to buzz, and everything and everyone becomes part of a swirl of sounds in a loudspeaker landscape.
- When: 1 – 8 October | Shows at 10.30am to 1pm
- Where: Sydney Opera House, Circular Quay
- Cost: Standard tickets from $42 | $8.95 Booking Fee applies per transaction
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
8. Mario the Magic Maker
Contagiously upbeat and full of heart, the ever-innovative Mario the Maker Magician leads you through an explosion of handmade art and robot magic for all ages. He’s “magic’s punk rock Peter Pan philosopher!” Do what you love, use what you have and have fun!
Described as not “just a kids’ show,” Mario the Maker Magician is an all-ages theatrical experience for adults, kids, families and everyone in between!
Mario weaves through a world of vaudeville and magic, cardboard and DIY robots, science and innovation, to instil a positive message that will last in the minds and hearts of all who partake in the hour-long journey together. He teaches the audience about famous scientists, inventors, and artists, with infectious messages of doing what you love, using what you have, and having fun in all his performances!
- When: 2 – 12 October | Shows at 11am to 2pm
- Where: Sydney Opera House, Circular Quay
- Cost: Standard tickets from $49.95 | $8.95 Booking Fee applies per transaction
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
9. & Juliet
PACA Productions proudly presents its first-ever staging of & Juliet, the smash-hit musical that’s turned heads in London’s West End and on Broadway.
From the Emmy®–winning writer of Schitt’s Creek, this hilarious and heart-filled show flips Shakespeare’s greatest love story on its head. Imagine Juliet taking control of her destiny, ditching the tragic ending, and stepping into a brand-new life filled with second chances, laughter, and empowerment.
Backed by an epic soundtrack of chart-topping anthems you already know and love: think Britney Spears, Katy Perry, Celine Dion, and The Backstreet Boys, this isn’t just a musical, it’s a full-blown pop concert experience.
- When: 3 – 8 October 2025
- Where: Riverside Theatres, Church Street, Parramatta
- Cost: From $69.50
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
10. Tinkerbell and the Dream Fairies
Join the magical fairies as they go on an exciting musical adventure! Tinkerbell and the Dream Fairies is showing at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney during the Spring School Holidays.
In an enchanting world of song and dance, the adventurous Tinkerbell meets with the fairies from A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Together, the cheeky Mustardseed, fluttery Moth, daring Cobweb and sweet Peaseblossom go on a magical quest with Tinkerbell.
The audience is invited to dress up and join in the fun! Come as a fairy, an elf, a Jedi, a pirate or even a superhero! Everyone is welcome to join this sparkling adventure with a special visit to ‘Bubble Land’ to help Tinkerbell and her new fairy friends find her lost wings.
- When: 27 September – 12 October 2025
- Where: Royal Botanic Garden, Mrs Macquaries Road, Sydney
- Cost: Free
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
11. Cockatoo Island Family Tour
With ferry rides, historic landmarks, wide-open spaces, and now a brand-new self-guided family tour designed especially for kids aged 6 to 10, Cockatoo Island is packed with affordable (and even free!) ways to keep young minds and bodies busy.
‘Our Day at Cockatoo Island’ is an excellent way for young adventurers, under adult supervision, to engage in a range of fun activities (such as drawing, creative writing and games) as they visit iconic landmarks and delve into the island’s history as a dockyard and jail.
Equipped with a colourful tour booklet – and guided by a series of pink cockatoo ground stickers – families will visit eight stops across the lower and upper island. Along the way, they’ll meet Burriburri the whale, communicate like a sailor… and have fun the good old-fashioned convict way!
To enjoy this family tour, head to the visitor centre (open 10am to 4pm) and purchase the ‘Our day at Cockatoo Island’ booklet.
- When: Daily
- Where: Cockatoo Island
- Cost: $5 per booklet
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
GUIDE: BEST SPRING FESTIVALS, FETES & FAIRS
Things to do in Sydney on Friday
Wondering what to do this Friday in Sydney? Check out our guide to local events and commemorations.
12. Chatswood Mall Market
Chatswood Mall Market
The Chatswood Mall Markets are held every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. You’ll find pastries, pizza or pork buns. There’s Japanese, Malaysian, Greek, Gozleme, and a whole host more to explore, including fresh produce. Pop down for lunch, dinner and shopping in the Chatswood Mall.
- When: Thursday – Saturday, 10am – 10pm
- Where: Chatswood Mall, 443 Victoria Ave, Chatswood
- Cost: Free
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
Things to do in Sydney this Saturday
Wondering what to do around Sydney this Saturday? There are plenty of fun events to choose from!
13. Luna Park Celebrates 90 Years
- When: Saturday 4 October
- Where: 1 Olympic Drive, Milsons Point NSW, Australia
- Cost: $35
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
14. Northside Produce Market
Held at Civic Park on the first and third Saturday of each month, the Northside Produce Markets are a vibrant showcase of fresh, seasonal food and artisanal goods.
With over 70 stallholders, the markets bring together regional growers from Orange, the Riverina, the Southern Highlands, Crescent Head, and beyond, alongside talented Sydney makers and bakers.
Shoppers can enjoy farm-fresh fruit and vegetables, cheeses, breads, condiments, and tempting treats for breakfast, brunch, or lunch. More than just a food destination, the markets are a community hub where supporting local producers means taking home flavours made with care and passion.
- When: 1st & 3rd Saturday of the month, 8am – 12pm
- Where: Civic Park, Miller Street, North Sydney
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
15. Mosman Market
On the first Saturday of every month, Mosman Markets transforms Mosman’s village heart into a bustling hub of creativity and community.
With more than 100 stalls, the market offers a delightful mix of artisanal wares, handmade treasures, and gourmet food. Shoppers can browse for unique gifts, homewares, jewellery, fashion, and crafts, while sampling delicious bites from local food vendors. The lively atmosphere is enhanced by ambient music, making it the perfect spot to soak up the weekend buzz.
Whether you’re hunting for a memorable present or simply enjoying a relaxed day out, Mosman Markets deliver charm and quality in abundance.
- When: 1st Saturday of the month, 8am-3pm
- Where: Mosman Village Green, Myahgah Road, Mosman
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
16. St Ives Organic Markets
The St Ives Organic Food Markets are held at the St Ives Showground every Saturday. Discover a vibrant community market filled with the finest Certified Organic produce, fresh fruit and vegetables, artisanal gourmet delights, farm-fresh seasonal goods, crusty sourdough, French and local cheeses, salami, smoked salmon, Australian truffles, and more.
Come rain or shine, St Ives Organic Markets is your go-to destination for high-quality food and pantry staples, as well as sustainable fashion, homewares, plants, and eco-conscious products.
More than just a market, it’s a weekly gathering of friendly, like-minded foodies who care about healthy living, local growers, and the environment. Bring your basket and your appetite—you’re in good company.
- When: Every Saturday, 8am-1pm
- Where: St Ives Showground, Mona Vale Road, St Ives
- Cost: Free
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
17. Berowra Community Markets
Held on the first Saturday of every month, the Berowra Community Markets are a much-loved local event that brings together stallholders from across the Hornsby area.
Visitors can browse a lively mix of homemade wares, arts and crafts, delicious foods, and second-hand treasures. Family groups, community organisations, and even car boot sellers contribute to the friendly, grassroots atmosphere, making the markets a great place to hunt for bargains or unique finds.
Beyond the shopping, the markets have a big heart—every dollar raised from stallholder rent is donated to local charities and non-profit organisations, ensuring the community spirit extends well beyond market day.
- When: 1st Saturday of the month, 9am – 2pm
- Where: Berowra Uniting Church, Alan Road, Berowra Heights
- Cost: Free
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
18. EQ Markets
The EQ Markets, held every Wednesday and Saturday at The Entertainment Quarter, are a lively celebration of food, creativity, and community.
With up to 50 stallholders, the markets offer a diverse range of products, including fresh seasonal produce, gourmet French fare, artisan goods, and unique gifts. Visitors can fill their baskets with farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, sample delicious treats, and browse stalls brimming with one-of-a-kind items perfect for gifting or personal indulgence. Don’t miss the stunning flower stalls, renowned as some of the most beautiful in Sydney.
Whether shopping, eating, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, the EQ Markets are a weekly highlight.
- When: Every Wednesday & Saturday, 8am-2pm
- Where: EQ Markets, Lang Road, Moore Park
- Cost: Free
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
19. Surry Hills Vintage Market
Since 1981, the Surry Hills Vintage Markets have been a cornerstone of the community, held on the first Saturday of every month.
Created to give locals a chance to trade recycled, handmade, or second-hand goods, the markets provided a valuable source of extra income for low-income earners. Today, they remain true to that spirit, offering a platform for people from all walks of life to sell, shop, and connect.
Visitors can browse eclectic stalls filled with vintage treasures, pre-loved fashion, and handmade gems while experiencing the rich diversity and creativity that make Surry Hills such a vibrant, dynamic suburb.
- When: First Saturday of the month, 8am – 4pm
- Where: Shannon Reserve, Crown Street, Surry Hills
- Cost: Free
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
20. Paddy’s Flemington Night Food Markets
On the first Saturday of every month (except January), Flemington comes alive with the flavours and fun of Paddy’s Night Food Markets.
This vibrant event is the perfect night out for families, friends, and even pets, offering a lively atmosphere and an incredible variety of food. Wander through food trucks and stalls serving up everything from wood-fired pizza and dumplings to gelato and global street eats. With undercover areas, plenty of parking, and space to relax and enjoy, it’s one of Sydney’s favourite night markets.
Come hungry and discover why Paddy’s is a must-do foodie experience month after month.
- When: First Saturday of the month, 6pm – 10pm
- Where: 250-318 Parramatta Road, Homebush
- Cost: Free
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
Things to do in Sydney this Sunday
21. Kirribilli Markets: Art, Fashion & Design
On the first and second Sunday of every month, the Kirribilli Art, Design and Fashion Market transforms the foreshore into a lively celebration of creativity and style.
With stalls spread across the Green, Gravel, and the iconic Burton Street Tunnel, visitors can discover original artworks, ceramics, glass, fashion, homewares, accessories, and fresh flowers, all crafted by talented artisans and designers. The atmosphere buzzes with live music and the aromas of international food, making it more than just a shopping trip—it’s an experience.
Whether you’re browsing for unique pieces or simply soaking up the vibrant scene, Kirribilli Markets never disappoint.
- When: 1st & 2nd Sunday of the month, 8.30am – 3pm
- Where: Kirribilli Markets, Burton Street, Milsons Point
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
22. Mona Vale Organic Food Market
Every Sunday, Pittwater RSL hosts the Mona Vale Organic Food Markets, a weekly favourite for locals and visitors alike.
Specialising in Certified Organic food and artisan gourmet produce, the markets are a foodie’s haven filled with flavour and freshness. Shoppers can stock up on conventional fruit and vegetables, seasonal farm produce, freshly baked breads and pastries, as well as deli delights like salami, smoked salmon, French cheeses, and even Australian truffles.
With its relaxed community atmosphere and diverse range of high-quality goods, the Mona Vale Organic Food Markets are the perfect place to fill your basket and start your week well.
- When: Every Sunday, 8.30am-1pm
- Where: Pittwater RSL, 82 Mona Vale Road, Mona Vale
- Cost: Free
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
23. Autobrunch – North Shore Sporting Club
Enjoy admiring beautiful cars? Visit Autobrunch – North Shore Sporting Car Club at St Ives Showground on the first Sunday of the month. Join other car owners and display your car. Unique and rare vehicles are available for your daily drive. Excellent barista-made coffee is also available.
- When: First Sunday of the month, 8am – 10.30am
- Where: St Ives Showground, Mona Vale Road, St Ives
- Cost: Free entry for spectators. $5 to register to display your car if you are not an NSSCC member
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
Want more things to do this weekend?
- The ultimate bucket list: Things to do with kids in Sydney
- Beautiful spots for an indulgent High Tea in Sydney
- Where to take kids horse riding around Sydney
- Best Bakeries around Sydney’s North Shore
- Best Arcades for kids (and big kids!) in Sydney
The events featured in this guide are organised by third parties, with details sourced directly from their official websites at the time of publication. While we strive for complete accuracy, last-minute cancellations may occur. To avoid disappointment, we recommend verifying event details on the official websites provided before attending.
