Ace Your Summer: The Best Things To Do Ahead of the Australian Open

Events, Melbourne, Sydney / 8 January 2025
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Ace Your Summer: The Best Things To Do Ahead of the Australian Open

Events, Melbourne, Sydney / 8 January 2025

With the Australian Open just around the corner, the cities of Sydney and Melbourne are serving up more than just thrilling tennis matches.

From exclusive pop-up bars to luxe champagne lounges and bespoke cocktails crafted by Grey Goose, there’s a whole lineup of events to keep the party going off the court. Whether you’re a tennis fan gearing up for the action or just love an excuse to sip an Aperol while watching the action unfold, these events will have you toasting to summer in style.

Here’s your guide to the must-visit spots and indulgent experiences to check out before the first serve.

Champagne Terrace at Woollahra Hotel, Sydney

Adding a touch of glamour to the game, Piper-Heidsieck x AO25 Terrace, an elegant Champagne pop-up is taking over the Woollahra Hotel from January 3–31. This chic al fresco space captures the essence of French Riviera tennis clubs while screening all the Australian Open action live. Enjoy $99 bottles of Piper-Heidsieck as you immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, or book a banquet for eight or more and receive a complimentary Magnum of Piper-Heidsieck. It’s the only AO25 Champagne pop-up outside Melbourne, offering Sydneysiders the perfect blend of tennis and bubbles.

Aperol Pop Up at Manta, Sydney

This summer, Aperol, an official partner of the Australian Open, is bringing a slice of la dolce vita to Woolloomooloo Wharf with its Aperol Summer Pop-Up Bar at Manta. Walk through the vibrant Aperol archway into a sun-soaked oasis, where iconic orange hues set the stage for the perfect Aperol Spritz. Sip on $16 Aperol cocktails all day or take advantage of Happy Hour from 4-6pm, with $12 spritzes. Pair your drink with a selection of delicious bar bites ideal for leisurely afternoons by the water. Open daily from 12pm to 9pm, it’s the ultimate destination for unbeatable summer vibes and waterfront indulgence.

Grey Goose Signature Serve & Rooftop Bar, Melbourne

Raise a toast to summer and tennis with Grey Goose, the official vodka partner of the Australian Open 2025. To celebrate, they’ve created the Grey Goose Lemon Ace, a signature cocktail blending Grey Goose original vodka, passionfruit syrup, and sparkling lemonade, garnished with a lemon ball and fresh mint. This zesty creation is perfect for courtside sipping and a nod to Grey Goose’s tennis legacy, following the success of the iconic Honey Deuce™ at the US Open. Fans at Melbourne Park can enjoy this signature serve at the Grey Goose Rooftop at the Courtside Bar, offering sweeping views over Court 6 and an elevated atmosphere. Or head to Club 1905’s exclusive balcony bar, where Grey Goose’s prestige offerings, including the new Grey Goose Altius, take centre stage.

AO Live Series, Melbourne

Get ready for an unforgettable weekend of music as the Australian Open presents its AO LIVE entertainment series, running from January 23–25, 2025. The final weekend of the tournament will feature an electric lineup, kicking off with pop sensation Benson Boone on Thursday, January 23rd. The Grammy-winning DJ Kaytranada takes over on Friday, January 24th, bringing his signature blend of house, hip-hop, and electronic beats to the stage. Then, on Saturday, January 25th, the festivities will hit their peak with an all-day celebration, culminating in show-stopping performances from pop icon Kesha and legendary DJ Armand Van Helden. The AO LIVE series is set to be the ultimate festival experience for fans who want to watch the tennis and see thei favoruite musicians all in one place.

Canadian Club Racquet Club Launch Party, Melbourne

As part of its 11-year partnership with Tennis Australia, Canadian Club is throwing an epic launch party to kick off the Australian Open 2025. On Sunday, 12th January, Birrarung Marr will transform into the ultimate tennis and music hotspot with performances from The Jungle Giants, supported by DJ Brooke Evers and Nite Theory, all hosted by the fabulous Abbie Chatfield. With Canadian Club drinks flowing, this FREE event is the perfect way to start the Grand Slam festivities. Plus, the iconic Canadian Club Cabana Bar is back for AO25, offering a chilled-out space to enjoy icy drinks and catch up with friends right in the heart of the action. Whether you’re a tennis fan or just in it for the good times, this is one party you won’t want to miss!

Terrazza Aperol at the AO, Melbourne

Game, set, spritz! Aperol is serving up the ultimate Aperitivo Hour experience at the Australian Open with the return of Terrazza Aperol. From January 6th to 26th, this Italian-inspired oasis on the Grand Slam Oval at Melbourne Park is your perfect post-match hangout. Sip on iconic Aperol Spritzes while indulging in delicious aperitivo boxes, all set against the backdrop of summer sunshine and thrilling tennis action. Terrazza Aperol boasts a 15-metre-long bar, plush lounges, and chic cabanas, creating a luxe yet laid-back atmosphere for unwinding with friends. Don’t miss the Aperol Adventure Dispenser, offering exclusive prizes like AO Live tickets, food vouchers, and VIP experiences.

Hotel Nacional, Melbourne

Nestled in the heart of the CBD and just 2km from Rod Laver Arena, Hotel Nacional is a must-visit for tennis fans. From the stunning Level 5 rooftop, guests can soak up panoramic views of the city while enjoying a 100% gluten-free, Mexican-inspired menu. Think zesty tacos, mouthwatering quesadillas, and, of course, refreshing margaritas to toast every ace. With the AO streaming live on the rooftop bar—designed to handle all weather—you won’t miss a single serve, rally, or match point. Whether you’re gearing up for a day courtside or winding down post-match, Hotel Nacional is the perfect spot to sip, snack, and soak in the electric atmosphere of the AO season.

Sheraton Melbourne x Piper-Heidsieck, Melbourne

This summer, elevate your Australian Open experience at Sheraton Melbourne’s Terrace Bar, where the thrill of tennis meets luxurious rooftop vibes. With a new partnership with Piper-Heidsieck Champagne, the bar offers the perfect setting to sip bubbles, indulge in curated bites, and watch live tennis action on the big screen. From now until February 28th, enjoy the daily $20 Piper-Heidsieck Champagne Brut or the exclusive ‘Australian Open Cocktail,’ a refreshing Elderflower Gin spritz. Add some fun with a friendly game of table tennis or kick back in style with the Grand Slam Special. For an even more elevated experience, treat yourself to the Ace Escape Package, starting at $385, which includes an overnight stay at the hotel and exclusive Australian Open x Marriott Bonvoy merch.

Grey Goose Brings Pickleball to Centennial Homestead, Sydney

Sydney, your serve! Grey Goose is mixing Melbourne vibes with Sydney style at Centennial Homestead, unveiling the city’s only Grey Goose Pickleball Court for the Australian Open season. As the official vodka partner of the AO, Grey Goose is serving up the tournament’s signature cocktail, the Lemon Ace. This refreshing drink is a courtside-inspired sip you won’t want to miss. Head to their AO Pop-Up Bar before Saturday 25th January to try it out and get your pickleball fix.

EQ’s Signature Journey, Melbourne

Take a breather from the Australian Open frenzy and prioritise your wellbeing with EQ’s Signature Journey in South Melbourne. Whether you’re an athlete seeking clarity to boost your game, staff looking for a mindful escape, or a local keen to reset during the action-packed AO season, EQ offers the ultimate wellness experience. For just $99 on weekdays (using the code AOWEEKDAY99), you can indulge in their Signature Journey—a luxurious way to recharge and feel your best. The limited time offer will be running from this Sunday January 12th, to January 26th. Book your spot now at eq-wellbeing.com and elevate your AO experience!

Sabalenka’s Power-Serve Bowl at Oakberry, Sydney & Melbourne

As the reigning Australian Open champion, Aryna Sabalenka is dominating the court with her powerful serve – the second fastest female serve in history at a blistering 214km/h.  In partnership with Oakberry, she’s launched her signature açaí bowl, the Sabalenka Power Serve. Packed with energy-boosting ingredients, this bowl features a base of Oakberry acai topped with creamy chia pudding, whey protein for recovery, indulgent peanut butter, fresh blueberries, and crunchy cacao nibs. Available in all Oakberry stores nationwide and at the Australian Open Topcourt Pop Up, this bowl is the ultimate power-packed snack for both athletes and everyday Aussies looking to fuel their day with nutrition and antioxidants.