Looking for easy, fun ways to keep the kids entertained this weekend? Sydney is packed with plenty to do — from Jurassic Zoo at the Australian Reptile Park and City of Wonder: Wildflower Edition at the Royal Botanic Garden, to Hide and Go Creek (a free augmented reality adventure around Hornsby Shire), Chatswood Mall Markets, and family-friendly favourites like Twilight Food Fair, local markets, and Darling Harbour fireworks.
Things to do all weekend
Things to do this Saturday
Things to do this Sunday
Things to do all weekend
1. Australian Reptile Park: Jurassic Zoo
Step into a prehistoric world at Australian Reptile Park these summer school holidays, where life-sized dinosaurs roam and thrilling discoveries await!
Perfect for dino lovers of all ages, this immersive experience is packed with Triassic-level fun and adventure.
Every entry ticket includes FREE extras like engaging zookeeper talks, hands-on animal interactions, a dinosaur discovery challenge, and a daily dino dance party — making it an unforgettable day for the whole family.
- When: 20 December 2025 to 2 February 2026
- Where: Australian Reptile Park, Pacific Highway, Somersby
- Cost: From $32.99*
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
2. City of Wonder: Wildflower Edition
Step away from screens and into a world built entirely by kids! City of Wonder: Wildflower Edition transforms the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney into a hands-on, build-a-city adventure from 19 December 2025 to 31 January 2026.
Families can explore wildflower meadows, take on creative building challenges, colour and craft butterflies, and even join small-group Wonder Workshops or the exclusive VIP Artist Experience with international artist Raffaele Salvoldi.
Built from 75,000 100% recycled-plastic planks, this joyful, screen-free experience celebrates creativity, sustainability, STEM and real-life connection — the perfect summer outing for curious kids and playful parents alike.
- When: 19 December 2025 to 31 January 2026
- Where: Royal Botanic Garden, Mrs Macquaries Road, Sydney
- Cost: From $25 per person, plus booking fees
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
3. Hide and Go Creek Around Hornsby Shire!
This summer, play Hide and Go Creek, a fun and free augmented reality experience at five creeks across Hornsby Shire, from now until 10 February.
Kids search for Craig, a cheeky, freshwater spiny crayfish hiding behind a hidden QR code. Scan the QR code to bring him to life, play with him and learn how to protect his creek.
It’s ideal for kids aged 3-12, and it’s completely free!
- When: Every day until Tuesday 10 February 2026
- Where: Hornsby Shire
- Leaf League Badge – Ginger Meggs, Hornsby | Location is accessible 24/7
- Grass Guardian Badge – Pyes Creek Swing Bridge, Cherrybrook | Location is accessible 24/7
- Wash Warrior Badge – Florence Cotton Walk, Hornsby | Florence Cotton Walk via Lisgar Gardens entrance: 8am to 5pm weekdays. 10am to 5pm weekends. Closed on public holidays and during adverse weather.
- Poo Patrol Badge – Erlestoke Park Bushlands Walk, Cherrybrook | Location is accessible 24/7
- Rubbish Ranger Badge – Fagan Park, Galston | 7am to 6.30pm. Open every day except Christmas Day
- Cost: Free
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
4. Chatswood Mall Market
Chatswood Mall Markets bring a vibrant, multicultural fiesta to Victoria Avenue every Thursday to Saturday.
Nestled in the heart of Chatswood’s bustling CBD, the market attracts around 40,000 passers‑by daily—part of the 60,000 people flowing through Chatswood Mall.
With around 25 stalls, it’s a must‑visit for lovers of global street food: Japanese, Malaysian, Greek, Turkish, Mexican and more. Expect fresh produce, arts and crafts, live music, and a laid‑back communal atmosphere.
Launched over a decade ago, the market continues to support locals and budding stallholders, enhancing community life.
- When: Thursday – Sunday
- Where: Chatswood Mall Market, Victoria Avenue, Chatswood
- Cost: Free
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
Things to do in Sydney this Friday
Wondering what to do around Sydney this Friday? Here’s how to unwind after a busy week.
5. Twilight Food Fair
Twilight Food Fair returns to Ted Mack Civic Park for another season of delicious street food, live entertainment and relaxed community fun under the stars. Running across eight Friday evenings from November to March, each event features a rotating mix of international cuisine, live music, roving performers and free kids’ activities in the heart of North Sydney.
Each evening features a rotating selection of food stalls serving global flavours and sweet treats, live music performances, roving entertainers such as bubble artists and balloon twisters, and free creative workshops for kids. The event is family-friendly, free to attend, and just a short walk from the North Sydney CBD – perfect for unwinding after work or enjoying a night out with friends and family.
Whether you’re winding down after a busy week or planning a relaxed evening with loved ones, Twilight Food Fair is the perfect way to start your weekend. Bring a picnic rug, your appetite, and your favourite people – every week offers something new to discover.
- When: Friday 30 January, 4.30pm-8.30pm
- Where: Ted Mack Civic Park, 220 Miller Street, North Sydney
- Cost: Free
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
6. Supserstar – The Carpenters Songbook
Superstar – The Carpenters Songbook live in concert comes to The Orpheum in Cremorne on Friday, 30 January 2026, for one unforgettable night of timeless harmonies and heart-warming melodies.
Experience a stunning live tribute to the legendary music of Richard and Karen Carpenter, featuring Australia’s own luminous vocalist Laura Davidson (Björn Again, Skyhooks show) and a 7-piece all-star band. This unforgettable concert celebrates 55 years of the timeless hit Close To You.
Hear classic songs like Top of the World, Rainy Days and Mondays, and We’ve Only Just Begun performed live with incredible musicianship and vocal precision. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to their music, this Carpenters tribute show is a must-see night of nostalgia and harmony.
Joining Laura onstage are Ally McNaughton (The Dusty Springfield Show), Mitch Cairns (Leo Sayer), Brett Wolfenden (The Casanovas, Wolfmother), Jeremy Diffey (Yacht Rock Revival), Andrew Leach (Big & Horny), and Mark Vandenboom (Pean).
Doors open at 7pm with the show starting at 7.30pm. Don’t miss this celebration of one of music’s most beloved duos.
- When: Friday 30 January, 7:00pm – 10:30pm
- Where: Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace, Military Road, Cremorne
- Cost: $55 – $65
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
Saturday
Wondering what to do around Sydney this Saturday? There are plenty of fun events to choose from!
7. Action Dance Academy: Open Day
Join Action Dance Academy for their exciting 2026 Open Day in Thornleigh on Saturday morning.
This is the perfect opportunity for families to experience the dance school firsthand. Action Dance Academy is offering free preschool classes where little ones can participate in fun, engaging activities and get a taste of their nurturing learning environment.
Families can meet the dedicated, experienced teachers passionate about early childhood dance education and discover how they support each child’s unique development journey.
You will enjoy discounted dancewear and shoes – perfect timing to stock up on essentials! Plus, Action Dance Academy will be serving a free sausage sizzle for the whole family to enjoy while exploring the facilities.
Whether considering enrolment for 2026 or simply wanting to learn more about their programs, the friendly team will be on hand to answer all questions. Book now to secure a spot at this wonderful community event!
- When: Saturday 31 January, 9am-11am
- Where: Action Dance Academy, Pioneer Avenue, Thornleigh
- Cost: Free
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
8. 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, promising to add a splash of excitement to your day.
Up to 50 stallholders come together to sell a fantastic variety of 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 by 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
9. 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
10. Darling Harbour Fireworks
What better way to end dinner or entertainment than with an incredible array of fireworks at one of Sydney’s most glorious waterfront locations?
Watch the Sydney sky above Darling Harbour come to life on Saturday nights in summer, from anywhere along Darling Harbour’s edge, including the many waterfront restaurants or bars along Cockle Bay Wharf, Harbourside Shopping Centre, King Street Wharf and Barangaroo.
- When: Saturday 31 January, 9pm
- Where: Cockle Bay Wharf, Sussex Street, Sydney
- Cost: Free
- More: northshoremums.com.au/events
Things to do in Sydney this Sunday
11. 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
12. 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
13. 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?
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- Harbour beaches & swimming enclosures around Sydney’s North Shore
- Best Waterslides & Aqua Parks to splash around in Sydney
- Trampoline parks around Sydney’s North Shore
- The Ultimate Guide to Dog-Friendly Beaches Near Sydney’s North Shore
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.
