Best Things To Do In Sydney in October 2026
Everything noteworthy that’s happening in Sydney this month
Spring is in full swing, Halloween is around the corner and the beaches are finally open for business. This October, there’s plenty happening all around town. Here’s what to add to your calendar in Sydney this month.
More than 80 wineries, local producers, chefs and makers join together from 2nd-4th October for a three-day festival at Centennial Vineyards in the Southern Highlands.
The city's largest independent arts festival is back for 2026 with more than 350 events to choose from. For six weeks catch everything from burlesque shows to family-friendly circus events. On now at events across Sydney until 11 October.
Because one night isn't spooky enough, Halloween is extended into a four-night affair with Ghost in The Rocks, stretching from 29th October - 1st November. Expect creepy cocktails, themed food stalls and plenty of excuses to wear costumes.
Celebrate the finest NSW cool climate wines over 10 days, when the Orange Wine Festival hosts more than 40 events thatwill pour out the very best of the Orange Wine Region. Expect award-winning wines, rare vertical tastings, behind-the-scenes cellar door access, long lazy lunches, winemaker dinners and parties that spill out under the stars.
Sydney's starlit concert series returns to North Head Sanctuary from 11 September to 3 October, with a stacked lineup spanning Boy & Bear, The Temper Trap, PNAU, Ben Folds, Jet and more, set against a stunning Sydney Harbour backdrop. Tickets via Ticketmaster.
It's Alice in Wonderland with a curious circus twist. Cirque Alice is doing a two-week run at Sydney Lyric Theatre until 11th October and tickets are still available. We've checked it out, and it's something you'll need to see to believe.
If the roller coasters and thrill rides aren't enough to get you screaming, this Halloween event at Luna Park will. The annual after-dark event takes over the amusement park from 29th-31st October when all rides will be open plus scare mazes, immersive games and even a zombie rave.
For one weekend only, L’Oréal Paris House of Worth is popping up on Bennelong Lawn for a free, immersive beauty experience. There will be exclusive giveaways, complimentary makeovers and skincare consults on 3rd and 4th October, plus the first 100 guests can get a gift bag worth $500.
Celebrating its 40th brew-versary, The Lord Nelson is throwing itself a party from 3rd-5th October. Every 40th beer poured will be free from 11am-2pm and a new, limited edition ale will be available for the occasion.
Returning to Manly on 10 October, The Great Artist Market will be taking over the Felons Barrel Room at the wharf with more than 60 artists' works on display including ceramics, illustrations, photography and creative homewares.
Marrickville Road will be transformed into a festival space on 11 October when the Marrickville Music Festival returns. Six stages with live music and plenty of roving entertainment will be taking over the suburb from 12pm-6pm.
Melbourne restaurant Embla's Dave Verheul will be popping up for one night only at Bessie's in Surry Hills for a produce-driven feast. The set menu is $120 and available only on 12 October.
Eat your way along Barangaroo's waterfront as The Great Graze returns on 17th-18th October. From 12pm-6pm, food stalls, communal dining areas, live music and entertainment will be set up showcasing the area's best eats and guest vendors.