Australian city spotlight: what's on in Sydney?
Sydney is home to vibrant markets, lively festivals and famous landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Want to know how to make the most of this great city in coming months? We’ve come up with a few suggestions to suit all interests and, most importantly, student budgets.
Arts and culture
Ferragosto: Bring out your inner Italian when you participate in this year’s Ferragosto festival, held in Five Dock’s Great North Road. Back for its 18th year, the festival is bigger and better than ever in 2015. With more than 160 market stalls, live entertainment and cooking demonstrations, there’s something for everyone. Admission is free.
When: 16 August 2015
SMASH! Sydney Manga and Anime Show: This year’s SMASH will be held in Rosehill Gardens, where you can meet celebrities from the anime world and join a cosplay competition. Sport your favourite anime character’s costume (or don’t) and enjoy the two-day event. Ticket starts at $30.
When: 8 to 9 August 2015
Sydney Fringe Comedy: Head over to Marrickville for Sydney Fringe Comedy — a four-week comedy event showcasing more than 130 seasoned and new comedians. There are six venues hosting different shows each night. Visit the website for more information on programs and ticket charges.
When: 1 September to 4 October 2015
The 4th Korean Film Festival: Watch some of South Korea’s popular and critically acclaimed films while sampling delicious Korean food at the KOFFIA Korean Film Festival, held in the city at Event Cinemas on George Street. Ticket starts at $16 per session for adults, $12.50 for concession card holders and $11 if you’re a member.
When: 12 to 20 August 2015
KOFFIA will also visit Brisbane (25 to 31 August), Canberra (5 to 6 September), Melbourne (3 to 10 September), Perth (17 to 20 September) and Adelaide (24 to 27 September).
Food
Good Food and Wine Show: Celebrate all things gastronomical, with everything from cellar door wine sampling and cooking demonstrations by top chefs to organic and Asian street food fairs. Adult tickets are $34, while children aged under 11 can enter for free.
When: 7 to 9 August 2015
Sydney Italian Wine and Food Festival: Held at Sydney Town Hall, the Sydney Italian Wine and Food Festival is your chance to sample more than 300 premium Italian wines, attend a range of cooking masterclasses and a sommelier tour, and meet some of Australia’s top Italian cuisine chefs. Tickets start from $20.
When: 30 August 2015
Taste Orange @ Sydney: This event brings Orange — one of New South Wales’ leading wine regions — to Sydney’s Martin Place. You’ll get the chance to chat to winemakers and sample food and produce from the region.
When: 10 to 11 September 2015
Fashion
Cronulla Market: Held in beachside Cronulla, this market provides unique fashion items such as handmade accessories and homewares. If you visit in September, you can join the Cronulla Spring Festival.
When: 12 July to 9 August 2015
Mercedes-Benz Fashion Festival Sydney: Late September will see Sydney Town Hall taken over by the city’s annual fashion festival — your chance to check out the latest designs from Australia’s leading designers, such as Alice McCall, Ginger & Smart, Nicola Finetti and Romance was Born.
When: 24 to 26 September 2015
Round She Goes Fashion Market: Marrickville Town Hall will host more than 60 stalls selling preloved designer labels and great quality vintage fashion items at this award-winning, pop-up indoor event. The event is held three times a year and the admission fee is $2.
When: 22 August and14 November 2015
Recreation
Blackmores Sydney Run: Dubbed one of the most scenic courses in Australia, the Sydney Running Festival has attracted both local and international participants. You can choose between the Blackmores Sydney Marathon (42 kilometres), Blackmores Half Marathon (21 kilometres), Blackmores Bridge Run (nine kilometres) or Medibank Family Run (3.5 kilometres). Tickets can be purchased online.
When: 20 September 2015
The Colour Run Sydney: Held at Centennial Park, this fun event starts with a mass Zumba class followed by a five-kilometre run where you will be showered with colour. Adults pay $67 per ticket.
When: 23 August 2015
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