Best Things to Do in Sydney This August | What’s On August In Sydney
- Smashd Sydney
- Jul 31
- 9 min read
Sydney in August is serving up more than just crisp mornings, from wine-soaked nights at Carriageworks to vintage shopping, supper clubs, and cult film screenings. This month is all about cosy community moments and cultural finds.
Whether you're planning ahead or just seeing where the weekend takes you, here’s our guide to the best things to do in Sydney this August.
Bondi Markets – Vintage Pop-Up
Bondi Beach | Sunday 3 August
Bondi Markets are back with their vintage and pre-loved pop-up market. Expect racks of retro fashion, unique accessories, and quirky homewares—from classic leather jackets to rare statement pieces. If you’re after something with character, this is where you’ll find it.
When: Sunday 3 August , 10am – 4pm
Where: Bondi Beach Public School
Price: Free Entry
More Info Here
Warm Hearts Social Club
Bondi Beach | Tuesday 5 August
Lace up for a steady 5K along the Bondi promenade with the Warm Hearts crew, kicking off from Fishbowl Bondi. Expect a limited‑edition Motorino drop, new Butterboy cookie flavours, New Balance kicks to trial with the PACE team, and refreshments from Heaps Normal. All paces are welcome — run, connect, and grab your $12 bowl post‑session.
When: Tuesday 5 August, 6:30pm – 9:00pm
Where: Fishbowl, 180 Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach
Price: Free
More Info Here
Very Short Film Festival
Bondi Junction | Wednesday 6 August
For one night only, the Very Short Film Festival brings over 20 under‑five‑minute films to the big screen at Event Cinemas Bondi. This year’s theme, Seed, has inspired a diverse line‑up spanning comedy, drama, animation and documentary. Audiences can also enjoy live Q&As with the filmmakers behind the stories.
When: Wednesday 6 August, 6.30pm–8.30pm
Where: Event Cinemas Bondi, 500 Oxford Street, Bondi Junction
Price: Adults $25 | Concession & Under 18s $18
More Info Here
Studio Ghibli Retrospective
Cremorne | Thursdays from 7 August
Hayden Orpheum is celebrating the magic of Studio Ghibli with a Thursday night retrospective running through spring. From Howl’s Moving Castle and My Neighbour Totoro to Spirited Away and Princess Mononoke, the beloved classics will return to the big screen in all their glory. Perfect for date nights, group outings, or simply reliving the wonder of these iconic films.
When: Thursdays at 7pm, 7 August – 2 October
Where: Hayden Orpheum, 380 Military Road, Cremorne
Price: Varies
More Info Here
Slow Series: Beginner’s Ikebana Workshop
CBD | Thursday 7 August
Unwind at Ace Hotel Sydney with a meditative introduction to ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arranging, guided by Braer Studio and Sogetsu teacher Sandra Marker. This beginner‑friendly workshop invites you to slow down, connect with nature and create your own seasonal ‘moribana’-style arrangement to take home. A welcome drink, all materials and gentle, thoughtful instruction are included.
When: Thursday 7 August, 6:30pm–8:30pm
Where: Ace Hotel Sydney, 47–53 Wentworth Ave, Sydney
Price: $110 per person (includes drink & materials)
More Info Here
Author Talk with Jemma Sbeg
Marrickville | Friday 8 August
Spend an evening at Wildflower Brewing & Mountain Culture’s taproom as Jemma Sbeg discusses her debut book Person in Progress and her hit podcast The Psychology of Your Twenties. Expect a cosy night of conversation, audience Q&A, and a chance to have your copy signed. Your first drink is on the house, with books available to purchase on the night.
When: Friday 8 August, 6:30pm–8:30pm
Where: Wildflower Brewing & Blending & Mountain Culture Taproom, 11–13 Brompton St, Marrickville
Price: $33 per person
More Info Here
Brew and Bounce
Forest Lodge | Saturday 9 August
Havi’s Dojo is celebrating its grand opening with a morning of coffee, sandwiches, and matcha in Forest Lodge. Expect award‑winning brews from The Bean Cartel, a playful menu of Japanese‑ and American‑inspired sangas, and locally‑sourced matcha in inventive flavours. With a relaxed, artsy outdoor setting, it’s the perfect spot to ease into your Saturday.
When: Saturday 9 August, 10am – 1pm
Where: Nauti Studios, 189b St Johns Rd, Forest Lodge NSW 2037
Price: Free entry
More Info here
Pilates @ the Pier
Barangaroo | Saturday 9 August
Start your Saturday with a waterfront Pilates session at Barangaroo, hosted by Maple Social Club. Bring your own mat for the morning workout, then stick around for coffee, fresh juice, and baked treats. It’s equal parts fitness and social catch‑up, set against one of Sydney’s best harbourside backdrops.
When: Saturday 9 August, 10am – 12pm
Where: Barangaroo, NSW (full location on RSVP)
Price: Free entry
More Info Here
SOFT CENTRE 2025
Sydney/Eora | Thursday 28 – Sunday 31 September
SOFT CENTRE returns with its most ambitious program yet — four days of experimental sound, new media art and boundary‑pushing performance across five venues. Expect live sets, immersive audiovisual shows, installations, expanded cinema, and thought‑provoking workshops and keynotes. This is the 8th edition of Sydney’s boldest festival for the genre‑defiant and the curious.
When: Thursday 11 – Sunday 14 September
Where: Various venues, Sydney/Eora
Price: See program for ticketing
More Info Here
Broadsheet Dine Out Festival
Sydney | Monday 11 – Sunday 17 August
Sydney’s dining scene gets a full‑week takeover as Broadsheet launches its debut Dine Out Festival, with 40+ events across the city. Expect everything from the “World’s Dirtiest Martini Bar” at Bar Planet, Tabasco‑fuelled Creole nights at The Bat & Ball, and a Freda’s pizza party, to NYC’s Chinese Tuxedo popping up at Rekodo. On the food front, highlights include Tipo 00 teaming with Morena for a one‑night Italian–Argentine feast, and Yellow, Ricos Tacos, Wildflower and Maybe Sammy rolling out special menus.
When: Monday 11 – Sunday 17 August
Where: Various venues across Sydney
Price: Varies by event
More Info Here
Morena x Tipo 00: From Italy to Argentina
Sydney CBD | Wednesday 13 August
Chefs Alejandro Saravia (Morena Sydney) and Andreas Papadakis (Tipo 00) join forces for a one‑night culinary journey tracing the Italian migration to Argentina. Expect handmade pastas, charcoal‑grilled meats and bold, cross‑cultural flavours in a share‑style feast. A rare collaboration that blends tradition with creativity — come hungry, leave inspired.
When: Wednesday 13 August, 6:00pm–10:30pm
Where: Morena Sydney, 1 Martin Place, Sydney
Price: $120 per person
More Info Here
Cuttings: Collage Workshop & Art Show
Darlinghurst | Saturday 16 August
Spend an afternoon with Sydney artist Kubi Vasak at Rainbow Studios for Cuttings, a hands‑on collage workshop blending bold botanical imagery with personal symbolism. All materials plus wine and light bites are included, with the session open to all skill levels. Afterward, stay on for the free exhibition launch of Kubi’s latest works and enjoy a relaxed evening of contemporary art.
When: Saturday 16 August — Workshop 1:00–3:30pm | Exhibition from 4:00pm
Where: Rainbow Studios, 348 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst
Price: $80 (includes equipment + glass of wine)
More Info Here
Cronulla Winter Market
Cronulla | Saturday 16 & Sunday 17 August
Head to Don Lucas Reserve for a weekend of seaside shopping, live music and gourmet bites at the Cronulla Winter Market. Expect a huge line‑up of local makers, food stalls and unique finds from across Sydney. With two full days by the beach, it’s the perfect way to soak up the winter sunshine while supporting small businesses.
When: Saturday 16 & Sunday 17 August, 10am–3pm
Where: Don Lucas Reserve, Cronulla
Price: Free entry
More Info Here
Winter Cellar Door
Eveleigh | Sunday 17 August
Carriageworks transforms into a wine lover’s haven this August with Winter Cellar Door. More than 20 NSW wineries will be pouring over 120 wines, with the chance to taste, sip by the glass, and take home a bottle. Expect a day of local food, live music and the chance to meet the makers behind your favourite drops.
When: Sunday 17 August, 11am–5pm
Where: Carriageworks, Eveleigh
Price: Free entry | $10 wine glass | Tastings from $5
More Info Here
Suntory The Premium Malt’s House at ICHOUME
Darling Quarter | Until Sunday 17 August
Suntory is bringing a slice of Kyoto to Sydney with a one‑off beer experience at ICHOUME. Sip six exclusive Japanese brews — including the Kaoru Ale, on tap for the first time in the southern hemisphere — paired with ramen, gyoza and other seasonal dishes. Expect creamy foam pours, beer‑foam selfie art, backpack kegs and limited‑edition giveaways for the full immersive experience.
When: Friday 25 July – Sunday 17 August
Where: ICHOUME, 25 Harbour Street, Darling Quarter
Price: Varies
More Info Here
Club Sup
Darlinghurst | Wednesday 20 August
Club Sup wraps up its supper series with a northern Italy-themed evening at Fabbrica Pasta Bar in Darlinghurst. Gather around a communal table over a seasonal three-course share-style menu, perfectly paired with natural wines—designed to spark connections and conversations. Whether you're attending solo or with a friend, expect a warm table, lively chat, and unforgettable flavours.
When: Wednesday 20 August, 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Where: Fabbrica Pasta Bar, 348 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst
Price: $126 per person
More Info Here
Feast Studio Supper Club: Winter Dinner Series
Darlinghurst | Thursday 21 August
Feast Studio returns with a Nepali–Thai inspired four‑course supper at Rainbow Studios as part of the Winter Dinner Series. Titled KTM – BKK – SYD, the menu traces a culinary journey from Kathmandu to Bangkok to Sydney, featuring multiple dishes per course in a share‑style feast. Expect bold, heartfelt cooking, a couple of welcome drinks, and a BYO‑friendly setting.
When: Thursday 21 August, 5:30pm–8:00pm
Where: Rainbow Studios, Darlinghurst
Price: $142 per person (includes welcome drinks, BYO encouraged)
More Info Here
Maple Social Club: Coffee & DJs
Sydney | Saturday 23 August
Maple Social Club is mixing your morning brew with a live DJ set this August. Expect good coffee, fresh beats, and a laid‑back crowd, the perfect way to kick off your weekend. Venue and DJ details will be revealed closer to the date, so RSVP to stay in the loop.
When: Saturday 23 August, 9am – 12pm
Where: Location shared on RSVP
Price: Free entry
More Info Here
Guest Chef Series at Dear Sainte Éloise
Potts Point | Tuesday 26 August
Beloved Potts Point wine bar Dear Sainte Éloise continues its Guest Chef Series with Wesley Cooper‑Jones of Chez Crix joining Head Chef Tom Cleland for a one‑night‑only seasonal set menu. Expect inventive dishes in a cosy, wine‑filled setting, with an $89 multi‑course menu designed for a decadent evening. Walk‑ins can also enjoy curated snacks at the bar if seats sell out.
When: Tuesday 26 August, from 5:00pm
Where: Dear Sainte Éloise, 29 Orwell Street, Potts Point
Price: $89 set menu
More Info Here
Scandals and the City: Dine & Crime
Paddington | Wednesday 27 August
Step into the shadows of Sydney’s past as historian Max Burns‑McRuvie brings scandalous tales to life over a three‑course Latin American feast. Hosted in tqm’s atmospheric Paddington courtyard, the night pairs true crime storytelling with bold flavours like Venezuelan braised beef tacos and roasted pumpkin salad. With only 30 seats each evening, it’s an intimate dinner experience blending history, food and intrigue.
When: Wednesday 27 August, 6:30pm (also Wednesday 10 September)
Where: tqm, 6 Healey Street, Paddington
Price: $65pp (includes 3‑course feast + drink on arrival)
More Info Here
Live Music Sessions
Sydney | Thursday 28 August
Maple Social Club brings live music into a warehouse setting for a Thursday night worth noting. Expect an intimate vibe with local sounds filling the space, perfect for a mid‑week escape. Full details, including the venue, will be shared with those who RSVP.
When: Thursday 28 August, 7pm – 9pm
Where: Location shared on RSVP
Price: Free entry
More Info Here
Second Life Markets
Eveleigh | Sunday 31 August
Sydney’s biggest vintage market returns to Carriageworks with over 120 stalls of curated fashion, accessories and timeless second‑hand treasures. Alongside the racks, enjoy sets from local DJs plus a line‑up of food trucks and drinks to keep you going. Whether you’re after a one‑off piece or a full wardrobe refresh, this is the place to find it.
When: Sunday 31st August, 10am-6pm
Where: Carriageworks, Eveleigh
Price: From $5 (Kids under 12 free)
More Info Here
Cold Dip Club
Coogee & Various Beaches | August
Copenhagen’s cult cold-water community is making waves in Sydney this August with sunrise dips at Coogee every Wednesday, followed by $2 coffees at Bathers Coogee. On Sundays, the group heads to rotating beaches — Milk Beach, Bronte Baths, Shelly Beach and Mahon Pool — for slower, social dips at 9am. It’s all about connection, chilly swims and that unbeatable post‑dip high.
When: Wednesdays 6:30am & Sundays 9am, throughout August
Where: Coogee Beach (Wednesdays) + rotating beaches (Sundays)
Price: Free (coffee $2 at Bathers Coogee on Wednesdays)
More Info Here
Weekend Markets
Whale Watching
Across Sydney | This Winter
From May to November, around 20,000 humpback whales migrate along the New South Wales coastline. Top spots to catch a glimpse include Barrenjoey Headland in Palm Beach, Fairfax Lookout at North Head in Manly, Gap Bluff at Watsons Bay, and Bondi Beach. Get a picnic, a date and maybe a jumper and go enjoy the sight of these creatures as they journey up north.
Even More things to do in Sydney:
Now, go have some fun..
Best Things to Do in Sydney This August
Whether you're after festivals, street parties, intimate dinners, or creative workshops, these curated events in Sydney have something for every vibe.
Follow Smash'd Syd for more curated guides, and if you’ve got an event coming up, send it to smashdsydcontact@gmail.com I’m always on the lookout for what’s on in Sydney.
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