Wondering what to do in Sydney this weekend? Back to school! The holidays are over, but the weekend is still full of fun events for the kids. Head to Annie the Musical, or check out Knox Family Gala Day for food, rides, activities, live music and more. There’s lots happening.
Get ready for the ultimate island adventure! On Sunday, 4 May, Cockatoo Island will come alive as it celebrates the Australian Heritage Festival 2025, offering a range of free and paid activities to excite families. Throughout Open Day, you’ll also have the opportunity to enjoy live music, a dance lesson, delicious food (including food trucks and stalls), steam crane demonstrations and paid boat rides.
The beloved tale of Annie has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide for generations. This legendary and inspiring musical returns to Sydney until 21 June in a dazzling new production at the Capitol Theatre.
Head to the Knox Grammar School Gala Day, a huge community celebration featuring food and market stalls, children’s rides and activities, live music, sports fixtures,, and so much more.
Or check out Twinkle Tots Cottage Open Day, which is the perfect opportunity for prospective families to explore their beautiful spaces, meet their dedicated educators, and learn about their unique approach to early childhood education.
This April, Hunter Valley Gardens invites visitors to immerse themselves in a world of mythology and fantasy at the annual Mega Creatures installation, featuring prehistoric dinosaurs, mythical creatures and spine-chilling giant insects.
Plenty of markets are 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.
And don’t forget to vote in the Federal Election this Saturday too! Find out where to vote here.
Things to do all weekend
1. Annie the Musical
The beloved tale of Annie has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide for generations. Now, this legendary and inspiring musical returns to Sydney until 21 June in a dazzling new production at the Capitol Theatre.
One of the most awarded and cherished musicals of all time, Annie features an unforgettable score including It’s the Hard-Knock Life, Easy Street, and the anthem of optimism, Tomorrow—a true celebration of hope, family, and resilience.
Directed by Karen Johnson Mortimer with fresh choreography by Mitchell Woodcock, this production brings new energy to the timeless story. With a book and score by Tony Award winners Thomas Meehan, Charles Strouse, and Martin Charnin, Annie remains a musical masterpiece for all ages.
She’s back—brave, bold, and ready to stick out her chin and grin once more!
- When: 9 April – 21 June
- Where: Capitol Theatre, Campbell Street, Haymarket
- Cost: From $70 (plus booking fee)
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
2. Paws & Pals at HomeHQ Artarmon
Paws & Pals is coming to Homehq from Friday 2 – Sunday 4 May, and it’s FREE to attend! A tail-wagging, whisker-twitching pet expo filled with fun for you and your furry bestie. Join us for three days of activities, treats, and surprises!
You will find a fantastic lineup of activities, treats, and surprises, including market stalls, a FREE dog wash, FREE caricatures, FREE photos, FREE treats, samples galore, and even pet adoption opportunities!
- When: Friday 2 – Sunday 4 May, 11am – 2pm
- Where: HomeHQ Artamon
- Cost: Free entry
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
3. Mindd International Forum 2025
Australian families seeking science-backed solutions for conditions like ADHD, anxiety and autoimmune diseases will have a rare opportunity to learn from world-leading experts in integrative healthcare at the Mindd International Forum 2025. This pioneering forum brings together medical professionals and researchers to showcase the interconnectedness between metabolic, immunological, neurological, digestive, and developmental health.
The forum is designed to equip both practitioners and the community with practical strategies to enhance health outcomes through personalised medicine, nutrition, and environmental interventions. The community education program features lectures, panel discussions, and cooking demonstrations, helping parents and educators understand how lifestyle, diet, and environmental factors influence conditions such as autism, ADHD, allergies, and anxiety.
Topics will cover neurological and metabolic health, diabetes and fatigue, immune and gut function, and how environmental stressors such as mould, ultra-processed foods, and pesticide exposure can impact children’s health.
- When: 1 May – 3 May, 8am-5pm
- Where: 15 Darling Drive, Sydney NSW
- Cost: $325
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
4. Mega Creatures at Hunter Valley Gardens
With school holidays fast approaching, there’s no better time to plan an Autumn adventure for the whole family. This April, Hunter Valley Gardens invites visitors to immerse themselves in a world of mythology and fantasy at the annual Mega Creatures installation, featuring pre-historic dinosaurs, mythical creatures and spine-chilling giant insects.
Open from Saturday April 5 until Sunday May 4 2025, this mind-blowing event is a short two-hour drive from Sydney and one-hour drive from Newcastle. Visitors of all ages will be able to enjoy the rides, interactive fossil digs, a dinosaur egg hunt and other fun entertainment provided by Erth, alongside the giant animatronic mega creatures.
Families don’t want to miss this opportunity to step into a fantasy land filled with mythological marvels and dinosaurs this school holidays. It’s the perfect experience for the whole family at Hunter Valley Gardens.
- When: 5 April – 4 May, 4pm-6pm
- Where: Hunter Valley Gardens, Broke Road, Pokolbin
- Cost: Adults $41, Children $31 with Family Passes available.
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
Things to do in Sydney on Friday
Wondering what to do this Anzac Day in Sydney? Check out our guide to local events and commemorations.
5. Chatswood Mall Market
The Chatswood Mall Markets are held in Chatswood Mall every Thursday, Friday & Saturday. You’ll find pastries, pizza or pork buns. There are Japanese, Malaysian, Greek, and Gozleme options to explore, along with fresh produce. Pop down for lunch, dinner and shopping in the Chatswood Mall.
- When: Thursday – Saturdays, 9am-9pm
- Where: 443 Victoria Avenue, Chatswood
- Cost: Free
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
Things to do in Sydney on Saturday
Wondering what to do around Sydney this Saturday? There are plenty of fun events to choose from!
And don’t forget to vote in the Federal Election this Saturday too! Find out where to vote here.
6. Knox Grammar School Gala Day
Established in 1978, Knox Gala Day is the largest community event on the Knox Grammar School calendar. This year, the Knox Gala Day will be held on Saturday, 3 May at the Senior School campus.
The event is a huge community celebration featuring food and market stalls, children’s rides and activities, live music, sports fixtures and so much more. Entry is free and all are welcome.
- When: Saturday, 3 May, 10am – 4pm
- Where: Knox Grammar School, Borambil Street, Wahroonga
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
7. Twinkle Tots Cottage Open Day
Join us for their very first Open Day at Twinkle Tots Cottage and see why families have trusted them for 20 wonderful years! This special event is the perfect opportunity for prospective families to explore their beautiful spaces, meet their dedicated educators, and learn about their unique approach to early childhood education.
- When: Saturday 3 May, 9am-12pm
- Where: 18 Wentworth Avenue, Waitara
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
8. Northside Produce Market
The Northside Produce Markets are held at Civic Park in North Sydney on the first and third Saturdays of the month.
Their passionate, hardworking stallholders offer fabulous fresh produce straight from the farm and exceptional artisan food goods for breakfast, brunch and lunch. Loyal customers realise the importance of supporting our local food producers.
More than 70 stallholders come from all over regional NSW: Orange, the Riverina, the Central Tablelands, the Southern Highlands, Brother Mountains, Crescent Head, and the outskirts of Sydney. Inner-city makers and bakers are also present!
- When: 1st & 3rd Saturday of the month, 8am – 12pm
- Where: Civic Park, Miller Street, North Sydney
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
9. Mosman Market
Mosman Markets are held on the first Saturday of the month. With a wide variety of authentic and high-quality products, shop to find handmade goods and even a present for that special someone! Explore over 100 market stalls, which include artisan wares and gourmet food. Enjoy ambient music and a guaranteed lively atmosphere.
- When: 1st Saturday of the month, 8am-3pm
- Where: Mosman Village Green, Myahgah Road, Mosman
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
10. Berowra Community Markets
The Berowra Community Markets are held on the first Saturday of the month.
Stallholders from the wider Hornsby area come to the Berowra Community Markets to sell their homemade wares, foods, arts and crafts, trash and treasure. Many stallholders are family and community groups. A wide variety of new and used goods are on offer, and the markets have proved popular with some folk who opt for a car boot sale at the markets instead of holding a garage sale.
All money raised from the Stallholders’ rent is donated to a non-profit agency or charity in the area and beyond.
- When: 1st Saturday of the month, 9am – 2pm
- Where: Berowra Uniting Church, Alan Road, Berowra Heights
- Cost: Free
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
11. EQ Markets
The EQ Markets are held every Wednesday and Saturday at The Entertainment Quarter. These markets are a vibrant celebration of community, creativity, and culture that promises to add a splash of excitement to your day.
Up to 50 stallholders come together to sell various goods, from fresh produce to gourmet French fare specially imported. Be sure to pop by to enjoy some fresh air and fill your basket with beautiful seasonal produce and gourmet treats. Check out the fantastic stalls full of one-of-a-kind and artisan gifts for that special someone in your life (or treat yourself!), or stop past one of the most beautiful stores for flowers you’ll ever see.
- When: Every Wednesday & Saturday, 8am-2pm
- Where: EQ Markets, Lang Road, Moore Park
- Cost: Free
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
12. Surry Hills Vintage Market
The Surry Hills Vintage Markets are held on the first Saturday of each month and have been an essential part of the Surry Hills community since 1981.
It was originally set up so locals could trade in recycled, second-hand, or handmade goods, allowing local low-income earners to make some extra money. The Markets continue to provide this opportunity to Surry Hills’s ever-changing community and are an excellent showcase of our suburb’s unique diversity to locals and visitors alike.
- When: First Saturday of the month, 8am – 4pm
- Where: Shannon Reserve, Crown Street, Surry Hills
- Cost: Free
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
13. Paddy’s Flemington Night Food Markets
Gather your family and friends and enjoy a night out at Paddy’s Night Food Markets at Flemington. Sample delicious dishes from various food vendors, including pizza, dumplings, gelato and much more!
Paddy’s Night Food Markets are on the first Saturday of every month (except January), where they cook up one of the best night food markets Sydney has seen.
Food trucks, undercover, with plenty of parking, makes for a great night out for family and friends, and is pet-friendly.
- When: First Saturday of the month, 6pm – 10pm
- Where: 250-318 Parramatta Road, Homebush
- Cost: Free
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
14. St Ives Organic Markets
The St Ives Organic Food Markets are held at St Ives Showgrounds every Saturday. At these markets, you’ll find Certified Organic food, artisan gourmet produce, conventional fresh fruit and vegetables, freshly baked bread and patisserie, seasonal produce from the farmer, salami, local and French cheese, smoked salmon and other delicacies, Aussie truffles….. and all the goodies you love to eat, every week, rain or shine.
At these friendly community markets, you will find everything to fulfil your weekly shopping needs, including an exciting choice of fashion, homewares, plants, and eco-friendly, sustainable fare, as well as healthy products.
You will all enjoy mixing with other like-minded, fun-loving, and friendly foodies – people like you who care about the environment and the health of the people they feed.
- When: Every Saturday, 8am-2pm
- Where: St Ives Showground, Mona Vale Road, St Ives
- Cost: Free
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
Things to do in Sydney this Sunday
15. Cockatoo Island Open Day
To coincide with the theme of this year’s festival, Unearthed, they’re running a range of talks that peel back the layers of history at Cockatoo Island. These include a special talk by the heritage architect, who, in 2009, uncovered the island’s convict-era solitary confinement cells. Throughout Open Day, you’ll also have the opportunity to enjoy live music, a dance lesson, delicious food (including food trucks and stalls), steam crane demonstrations, paid boat rides, and much more!
Plus: For one day only, they’ll be opening their holiday houses and apartments at select times – and inviting people in! Discover their heritage charm and gain access to an EXCLUSIVE discount for your next stay! More of an outdoors type? They’ve got you covered – their very best waterfront tents will be open for a sticky beak.
- When: 4 May 2025, 10.30am to 3.30pm
- Where: Cockatoo Island, New South Wales
- Cost: Free
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
16. Mountain Fest 2025
Mount Kuring-gai Public School is hosting its school fete, Mountain Fest, on Sunday, 4 May. It will be a fun day out for everyone with great stalls, food, and rides. Come along and help raise funds for their lovely school.
- When: Sunday 4 May 2025, 10am to 4pm
- Where: Mount Kuring-gai Public School, 1 Leeming Street, Mount Kuring-gai NSW,
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
17. Terrey Hills Annual Markets
The Terrey Hills Annual Markets are on Sunday 4 May at Frank Beckman Reserve, and promise to be a wonderful celebration of local talent and community spirit.
With a focus on handmade, organic arts and crafts and local produce, visitors will have the chance to discover unique items while supporting local artisans. The addition of children’s activities, family gatherings, a fire engine, and a radio station tour makes it a fun and engaging day for everyone. It’s an excellent opportunity to connect with neighbours, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, and create lasting memories.
- When: Sunday 4 May, 9am-2pm
- Where: Frank Beckman Reserve, Yulong Ave, Terrey Hills
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
18. Kirribilli Markets: Art, Fashion & Design
The Kirribilli Art, Design and Fashion Market is held on the first and second Sunday of each month. These markets have a vibrant atmosphere, fantastic stalls, great products and delicious food. Artists, craft practitioners and designers sell their original paintings, glass, ceramics, fashion and accessories, homewares, hat and fresh flowers in an atmosphere of great live music and international food.
The Burton Street tunnel exclusively features Artisans’ products, while the Green and Gravel areas feature Fashion stalls and much, much more.
- When: 1st & 2nd Sunday of the month, 8.30am – 3pm
- Where: Kirribilli Markets, Burton Street, Milsons Point
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
19. Mona Vale Organic Food Market
The Mona Vale Organic Food Markets are held every Sunday at Pittwater RSL. These weekly markets offer gourmet food and produce, specialising in Certified Organic food, artisan gourmet produce, and conventional fresh fruit and vegetables. They also sell freshly baked bread and patisserie, seasonal produce from local farmers, salami, local and French cheeses, smoked salmon, and other delicacies, as well as Australian truffles.
- When: Every Sunday, 8.30am-1pm
- Where: Pittwater RSL, 82 Mona Vale Road, Mona Vale
- Cost: Free
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
20. 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 cars 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 a NSSCC members
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
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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.