What to do in Sydney this September

Get a fresh dose of culture at Sydney Fringe Festival

Sydney’s largest independent arts festival is back with more than 400 events over 30 days. Get deep into big conversation topics at an epic dinner party, be moved by the 3-time Grammy-winning Soweto Gospel Choir or see the experimental, unfiltered and vibrant performances of up-and-coming musicians, comics and theatre-makers.

Various dates

Have a blast with the past at History Week

Explore public talks, heritage walks and workshops during History Week. Tour our civic collection with a curator, try your hand at laser-cut printmaking using images from our archives or hear about Sydney’s clock towers and bells from a master clockmaker.

7 to 15 September

Celebrate your favourite Sydney streets

Throw off your doona and spring forth into Haymarket and Potts Point where the streets will serve festival vibes with live music, roving entertainers, kids’ activities and alfresco dining.

Haymarket: Saturday 21 September Potts Point: Saturday 28 September

Find the next big thing at the Big Design Market

You’ll be spoilt for choice at this market at Carriageworks. Browse the wares of more than 200 Australian and New Zealand designers showcasing ceramics, jewellery, homewares, clothing and lots more. There’ll be gourmet treats galore, art installations and a creative space for kids to play.

20 to 22 September

Get out into nature at Sydney City Farm

Join a guided walk of Sydney City Farm. Breathe in that fresh air and find out what delicious produce our volunteers are planting this month.

Saturday 7 September

Get into HSC study mode at Green Square Library

Year 12 students will have Green Square Library to themselves as they make their final sprint towards their exams. The library provides free wifi, HSC materials and library resources – you bring the laser focus and persistence.

Monday and Tuesday nights throughout September

Celebrate all things green and growing

Green thumbs, plant parents and new gardeners will bloom at this Plant Party. Dive into a diverse range of flowers and foliage from more than 20 vendors, and delight in rare plant displays, talks and a dazzling orchid show.

Saturday 14 September

Wander through White Rabbit Gallery

The latest exhibition at this gallery of Chinese contemporary art is all about turning mind into matter and matter back into mind. Not sure what that means? Never mind, it doesn’t matter: you’ll see hyperreal sculptures of Chinese businesspeople, a replica of the Death Star made from dog chews and a mass of black clay figures with cartoonish eyes.

Wednesdays to Sundays until November

Explore Cliff Noble Community Centre

Get to know your local community centre in Alexandria on to its free open day. Say hello to the friendly team over a sausage sizzle, exercise class tasters and performances from local students and community groups.

Thursday 19 September

Power up at White Bay Power Station

The former industrial complex that once powered Sydney opens its doors for Power Up festival, three days of local art, food, live music and tours.

20 to 22 September

Discover something different on the big screen

Feast your eyes on something weird and wonderful at the Sydney Underground Film Festival or catch the final film of the Taiwan Film Festival. Looking for a comfort watch? Revisit your favourite Robin Williams films in this retrospective series at the Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace.

Various dates

Want more? See everything happening this month.