Aimee O'Keefe

If marathons are your latest hyperfixation, your feed is probably full of gels, carbon-plated runners and whatever the latest fitness gizmo is. But with so much noise, it can be hard to know what’s actually worth the hype, especially if you've only just entered your long-distance running era. So if you’re among the hordes of Sydneysiders prepping for the upcoming Sydney Marathon this August, you’ll be happy to know we’ve done the brunt work for you (not the running part – we hope you’ve been training). We’re spotlighting the five essentials to have on hand, so that you can focus on the actual running part.

One of the newest highlights on Sydney’s foodie calendar, Horizontal Festival is officially back for round two. Only a 90-minute drive from Sydney down the Hume, Bowral is Australia’s answer to the quaint English countryside, without the expensive flights. Throw a long-weekend festival into the mix, and it’s a no-brainer. So, pack up the car and head south from October 1-5 for a celebration of all things food, wine and music set against a picturesque backdrop. You’ll find most of the action at the festival hub at Centennial Vineyards. Enjoy unlimited wine tastings, access to the Maldon Salt Culinary Stage which features a Saturday lunchtime session with Argentine chef Francis Mallmann and appearances by culinary legends like Matt Moran, Mark Best and Mindy Woods. Between wining and dining, settle in for Wine & Conversation with Nick Ryan, join a curated tasting circle or explore the Hops Garden and The Orchard. Music lovers are equally well catered for, with vinyl DJs spinning every evening, a headline performance by Furnace and the Fundamentals on Friday night and a lively mix of live bands and roving entertainment. You can check out the full lineup here. There’s also plenty of satellite events to check out over the weekend. On Thursday, join Bites & Barrels hosted by Matt Moran at the Centennial Vineyard Cellar Door. On Sunday, just before the NRL kickoff, catch crowd favourite The Battle of the Banger as it returns to one of Australia’s oldest and coolest country pubs, the

Whether it’s for a weekly haul, a monthly tradition or a Christmas specialty, we could easily think of 100 reasons to head over to Blackwattle Bay in Glebe to explore the sprawling precinct. The largest seafood market in the Southern Hemisphere, Sydney Fish Market’s fresh look following its recent move has well and truly cemented its status as a favourite among local foodies. If you’ve yet to experience it since its opening in January 2026, we’ve got even more reason for you to drop by – we’re giving away a Sydney Fish Market experience pack valued at over $1,000. The prize includes a Sydney Fish Market Tasting Tour voucher for four adults and a $100 dining voucher to your choice of Hamsi Taverna, Lua by Luke Nguyen, or Tam Jiak. You’ll also score a curated selection from Sydney Fish Market retailers including olive oil from Olivetta, wine from Fisherman Fine Wines, treats from Green Valley Goes Nuts, produce from Fruitezy, plus exclusive market merch. To top it all off, you'll take home a copy of the Sydney Fish Market: A Fish for All Seasons cookbook.   The competition is open to Sydney residents aged 18 and over. Make sure to enter below by August 6 for your chance to win.  If you haven’t made the pilgrimage to Sydney Fish Market yet, consider this your sign. Here are six reasons to stop by.

When most people think of Lunar New Year, a lavish banquet is usually the first thing that comes to mind. 2026 is the Year of the Fire Horse, which represents momentum, freedom and determination – the kind of energy we’d like to carry into the new year. And what better way to channel that energy than with a banquet, paired with a side of Hennessy, of course.  This year, from Monday, February 2 to Saturday, February 28, Hennessy is teaming up with some of the country’s best Chinese and Southeast Asian restaurants across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth. Think elevated banquet menus, Hennessy cocktails created just for the season, and entertainment to match. Here’s what’s on offer:  Sydney Crown: Curated banquets at Golden Century, Zodiac themed cocktails at Teahouse, Steak and Hennessy cocktails at Woodcut and live performances Prefecture 48: $88 set menu at FIVE and Hennessy pairing across the precinct Lee Ho Fook: $248 set menu with Hennessy cocktails and a lion dance on February 9 Melbourne Lee Ho Fook: $248 set menu with Hennessy cocktails and a lion dance on February 9 Mongkok Teahouse: LNY menu with Hennessy cocktails Yum Sing House: LNY menu with Hennessy cocktails. Win prizes on the Hennessy Lucky Wheel  Brisbane Phoenix Brisbane: LNY set menu with a bottle of Hennessy VSOP for $1388 or with a bottle of Hennessy XO for $2088. A lion dance on February 16 Perth Modu Kitchen & Bar: $88 set menu with a complimentary Hennessy VSOP cocktail. Lunar New Year banq

Bursting with 80s nostalgia and a whole lot of attitude, Heathers the Musical has long held its place as a global cult favourite. With news dropping that the hit show is headed to Australia and New Zealand, excitement is skyrocketing, and what better way to fuel the anticipation than by meeting the fresh, talented cast behind the popular production? For anyone unfamiliar with the show (where have you been?), Heathers the Musical is based on the 1989 film starring Winona Ryder and Christian Slater. The stage adaptation is wickedly funny and, well, a little bit dark, capturing the brutal politics of high school life and the romance that comes along with it.  Photograph: Supplied | Cameron Grant The production is directed by celebrated American stage and screen director Andy Fickman. “We can’t wait to share this twistedly heartfelt story with audiences Down Under. It’s a show about love, heartache, defying expectations, and being true to yourself,” Fickman says. Following hit runs in London and New York, the musical arrives on Australasian shores with a killer soundtrack by award‑winning writers Kevin Murphy (Desperate Housewives) and Laurence O’Keefe (Legally Blonde: The Musical).  But, bringing the real energy to the much-loved show is the cast, packed to the rim with fresh new talent and breakout roles – that means it’s your chance to catch them all here first. The production is led by Emma Caporaso in her principal debut as Veronica Sawyer, known for her powerhouse vocals

Balmy summer evenings call for dining al fresco, rooftop drinks, gelato strolls with the kids and a healthy dose of arts, music and culture. Luckily, Parramatta CBD’s walkable flat streets, multiple light rail stops and breezy riverside make getting around a lot easier, a lot cheaper and a lot safer to go out and connect with the community. When you add in its ever‑growing nightlife scene, it really is the ultimate summer‑night playground. You can expect local chefs dishing up everything from smoky Middle Eastern grills to modern Thai fusion, and if you’re dreaming of dinner and a show, Riverside Live at PHIVE has you covered. If you’re in the mood for live sport instead, there’s plenty of action at CommBank Stadium, or if you're planning a summer staycation, you can easily turn one night out into a whole weekend away. Whether you’re a lifelong local, a curious foodie, a sports lover or a staycationer, Parramatta’s internationally recognised Purple Flag status means it’s safe, offers plenty to do, and is a welcoming place to explore after dark. More than just a label, it’s a gold standard where you know you’ll enjoy a great night out with family and friends.  Basically, when you’re under the Purple Flags, you know you’re going to have a great night with family and friends. Here’s our guide to the best of summer nights in the river city.

Some people lock in their New Year’s plans months ahead. Others prefer to leave things to chance. If that sounds like you, and you’re still undecided, don’t stress. Parramatta has you covered with a massive New Year’s Eve Celebration that you can just rock up to. The best part? It’s completely free (and no pre-bookings are required). From 5pm to 9.30pm, watch Parramatta Park come alive with three live music stages, a drone show, fireworks, food trucks, rides and plenty more.  Auslan interpretation will be available at all three stages, ensuring that the event is accessible and inclusive for everyone. If you’re keen to catch the performances at The Crescent Stage, you’ll just need a wristband. These are free and available to collect from 1pm at the wristband tent near The Crescent Stage. It’s first-come, first-served (up to five per person). All other areas are open without wristbands. Here are the Parramatta NYE happenings on our must-do list:

With long, warm days ahead – up to 14 hours of daylight at peak summer – it feels almost criminal to stay indoors glued to a screen. But we get it, sometimes, thinking of what to do is the hardest part. So if you’re wondering how to make the most of Sydney’s endless sunshine, we’ve got you covered. Right on the steps of the Sydney Opera House, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney is a 30-hectare oasis brimming with nature-led experiences, cultural activities, art, and family-friendly fun. The best part? None of it involves scrolling or binge-watching. Here’s what deserves a spot on your summer hit list.

Sydney is pulling out all the stops this December, and everyone’s favourite harbourside spots – The Rocks, Barangaroo and Darling Harbour – are transforming into the ultimate festive playgrounds. Think Christmas concerts, visits from Santa, elves battling the Grinch on jet skis, and even a floating Christmas tree. Best part? Most events are free. Here’s your ultimate festive hit list. 

If you’re an avid ballet lover, then you will know the thrill of a triple bill – or even if you’re not, the three distinctive pieces by different choreographers, presented in a single performance are a perfect introduction. Prism takes this format and runs with it – weaving together three distinct artistic journeys that defy expectations and captivate audiences. Premiering in the Harbour City this spring at the Sydney Opera House on November 7, Prism promises anything but a typical night at the ballet. The kaleidoscopic experience pairs visionary choreographers with acclaimed composers to create something truly original. The program features landmark works from two international choreographers – William Forsythe and Jerome Robbins – alongside a world premiere from Australia’s own Stephanie Lake. The choreography will be paired with compositions by Philip Glass, James Blake, and J.S. Bach, reimagined by Peter Brikmanis. Together, they form a dynamic performance that reimagines what ballet can be. It’s contemporary ballet with an edge – ambitious, at times unconventional, and always unexpected. Prism is coming to the Sydney Opera House from November 7 to 15. Head to The Australian Ballet website for performance times, general tickets, and more info.

With the holiday season fast approaching, it’s the perfect time to start dreaming about your next escape. Whether you're craving the freedom of the open road, coastal serenity, a bit of adrenaline, or the raw beauty of the outback, there's no need to hop on a plane overseas – Australia is overflowing with places to explore, all right here in our own backyard.  Thanks to Australia Post and Mastercard (and to mark the release of Kangaroo in cinemas), this dream could soon become a reality – with one lucky family set to win a trip for four to the Northern Territory and the Gold Coast. The prize includes return flights, accommodation, Village Roadshow Theme Park passes, exclusive Priceless Experiences, and a $500 Australia Post Gift Card by Mastercard. To enter, simply load $100 onto any Australia Post Prepaid Mastercard and register your entry with proof of purchase.*  Here’s your bucket list, sorted. 

Even the most committed Grinches will find it hard to resist the indulgence of the silly season at Park Hyatt Sydney. With exquisite food, expertly crafted drinks, and front-row views of Sydney Harbour, this luxurious harbourside hotel is pulling out all the stops this December. Executive chef Tyson Gee has curated a series of menus that hero fresh, seasonal produce while giving a nod to the much loved classics. But be warned – these experiences will see Sydneysiders booking months in advance. Photograph: Supplied | Park Hyatt Sydney On Christmas Day, The Dining Room and The Living Room will present a five-course menu for $425 per person, beginning with a glass of NV Taittinger Champagne and a seafood platter, because nothing screams Aussie Christmas more than freshly shucked oysters and sweet prawns. For the traditionalists, glazed Berkshire ham caramelised with festive spices will also be on offer. And for dessert? Pavlova, obviously, but with a playful twist – mango, rice pudding and pink peppercorn – because, let’s be honest, there’s only so much of Mum’s pav you can handle before craving a little extra flair. Photograph: Supplied | Park Hyatt Celebrations continue throughout the entire month of December with a Christmas-themed afternoon tea, available Fridays through Sundays from $95 per person. Expect seasonal delicacies like braised turkey pie with cranberry gel, gingerbread, and salted vanilla bûche de Noël. No festive feast is complete without a stellar drinks li

This year, Sydney Open is heading west, offering access to 16 buildings and spaces across Parramatta. Go behind the scenes and explore new places usually off-limits to the public, until now. On Saturday, August 29, you can see if reality lives up to the hype as Parramatta opens the doors to some of its most interesting and hidden spots. For one day only, step inside Australia’s oldest surviving public building and UNESCO World Heritage site, Old Government House, or see adaptive reuse in action at the newly upgraded Parramatta Town Hall. You’ll also get to go behind the scenes of the Sydney West Trial Courts and explore the award-winning civic hub, PHIVE. If you love a good backstory, experts will be giving the inside scoop on everything from architectural insights to the colonial-era secrets of Sydney’s second European settlement after Sydney Cove. Presented by Museums of History NSW, MHNSW members get a 20 per cent discount and exclusive entry to a special members-only building, Harrisford House. Whether you’re a design lover or a history buff, this is your opportunity to discover the architecture, heritage and newest additions to Western Sydney’s beating heart, giving you the chance to see Parramatta in a whole new light. Plus, purchase your tickets before midday, August 14 for a chance to win a spot on an exclusive preview tour of the new Powerhouse Parramatta – one of the world’s most significant new museum projects, set to open in late 2026. Stay tuned: the winners will

Few things in life manage to bridge generational divides, and one of them is Animal Crossing. Whether you’re looking for activities these school holidays or feeling nostalgic for the hours spent catching fish on your Nintendo Switch, head to Darling Harbour from July 1 to August 23 to experience a dreamlike underwater world where your favourite virtual characters and the real marine world collide. Back by popular demand, the Animal Crossing: New Horizons experience returns with a fresh and even more immersive take, giving returning fans the perfect excuse to come back. Snap a pic with Isabelle, everyone's favourite secretary, or check out panels from Blathers about the aquarium’s real-world marine life. In between lessons, see if you can spot a washed-up Gulliver alongside giant cutouts of other island residents hiding around. You can also take part in a stamp rally inspired by the game. If you collect all the character stamps, you'll take home a postcard as a reward that’s worthy of a spot on the fridge.  Tickets start from $99 per family, with 30 per cent off until July 19. Plus, students save more than 50 per cent, with $24 tickets available weekdays anytime (outside school holidays) or every day after 3pm. The Animal Crossing: New Horizons experience at Sea Life runs for a limited time from July 1 to August 23, 2026. To learn more and get tickets, visit the Sea Life Sydney Aquarium website. To celebrate the return of The Animal Crossing: New Horizons experience, we're gi

Melburnians, consider this your invitation to join in on the fun – RONA. is arriving for a groovy time on Swanston Street and if you’re one of the first there, you’ll score a brand new pair of kicks. Taking over one of Naarm/Melbourne’s favourite late-night hangouts on Thursday, February 26, from 8pm until 11pm, this one-night-only event, powered by Platypus Kicks Club and ASICS Sportstyle, is shaping up to be one for the books. Free gigs are rare these days, and when it’s RONA. taking over the decks, you know it’s going to be huge. Expect RONA.’s signature electronic club energy she’s known for with a blend of desert soundscapes and Indigenous storytelling. She’ll be joined by local favourites Yarra and Mikalah Watego, rounding out an unforgettable lineup. Our insiders’ tip? Arrive early. The first 50 people in line will score free ASICS Sportstyle kicks.* And if your size isn’t in stock, you’ll receive a $100 Platypus voucher instead. It’s a win-win. Simply join the Platypus Kicks Club for exclusive access to shoes, music, future events, giveaways, offers, and more. Tickets are limited, so get in quick. All you need to do is register for your free ticket. *T&C’s apply, limited sizes only. If sizes are unavailable, a $100 Platypus voucher will be supplied.

Finding something that keeps both you and the little ones happy isn’t always easy. Enter the Moonee Valley Festival. The sun’s out, the kids are playing, you’ve got something tasty in hand, and live tunes are drifting across the park. Sounds pretty good, right? Oh, and did we mention it’s completely free?  The Moonee Valley Festival returns to Queens Park in Moonee Ponds on Sunday, March 15, bringing a full day of live music, food, entertainment, and good ol’ community spirit. This year is shaping up to be another big one, with all the crowd favourites returning. There will be live performances – this year headlined by Australian soul and funk vocalist Kylie Auldist – plus bands, dancers, local vendors, market stalls, and food trucks from across the area. Kids can enjoy live music, circus school, a wildlife show, roller‑skating demonstrations, face painting and more.  One of the biggest events on the Moonee Valley calendar, the festival is a feel-good celebration of the vibrant and diverse local community, and the free entry is just the cherry on top.  For more information and to stay up to date with any event changes (including weather updates), visit the Moonee Valley City Council website.

If the recent release of ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ left you craving even more time on Pandora, we’ve got the perfect summer escape. A brand‑new Avatar experience has just arrived at Madame Tussauds Sydney, ready to whisk you away into another realm, even if it’s just for a little while. Come face‑to‑face with Jake Sully, brought to life as a life‑sized, hyper‑detailed figure inspired by Sam Worthington’s unforgettable performance. From his powerful stance to his signature Na’vi detailing, it feels almost too real. Meanwhile, a stunning Pandora‑inspired environment transports you deep into the Avatar universe, where vibrant alien flora is paired with immersive soundscapes, making it feel as though you’ve stepped straight into the film. This installation was created in close collaboration with Disney, Lightstorm Entertainment, and Wētā Workshop, promising an experience that’s as awe-inspiring as the franchise itself. With the summer school holidays in full swing, this is the ultimate family activity, especially on those rainy Sydney days, offering a magical journey into one of the world’s most beloved cinematic universes. And yes, it makes for the perfect Instagram post. Whether you’re snapping photos, filming TikToks, or capturing Reels, this experience offers an endless stream of share‑worthy content for fans and pop‑culture lovers alike. Located on Aquarium Wharf in Darling Harbour, the experience runs until Monday, February 9, 2026. Tickets start from $49, or guests can save u

Written and directed by acclaimed Larrakia, Yanyuwa, Bardi and Wardaman artist Jada Alberts, ‘Black Light’ is a bold new work kicking off Malthouse’s 2026 Season.  Supported by a powerhouse First Nations cast including Trisha Morton‑Thomas and Tahlee Fereday, as well as real-life sisters Rachael and Lisa Maza reuniting on stage for the first time in 17 years to explore the complicated bond between two sisters, ‘Aunty’ and ‘Mum’ in the world premiere of Black Light. The production threads together the familiar tangled intimacies and everyday drama of family life – dementia, break‑ups, single parenthood, and the simmering resentments that form between siblings. Above all else, Black Light is a poignant love letter to mothers, aunties, grandmothers and great-grandmothers everywhere. The production offers a rich portrait of Black motherhood, exploring the passing down of wisdom. ‘Black Light’ is playing at Malthouse’s Merlyn Theatre in Southbank from February 13 until March 7. You can book your tickets here.

This October, step into a 1990s daytime rave in full, euphoric swing, where pulsing beats and dancing bodies collide with heartfelt moments, betrayal, friendship, and self-discovery. This is the world of Daytime Deewane by Azan Ahmed – a genre-blending production that captures the tenderness and emotional turbulence of being a young adult just trying to figure it all out.  The Australian premiere is running from October 16-25 at the all-new Riverside Live at PHIVE theatre in Parramatta Square. Told over the course of a single afternoon, the story follows cousins Farhan and Sadiq – two young ravers navigating the tension between their Muslim heritage and the pressure to become “proper” British men. The catch? They need to figure it out before the sun sets. Rooted in British South Asian history, Ahmed’s story explores the familiar complexities of diaspora identity, blending cultural nuance with a banging soundtrack that makes it hard to sit still. You’ll laugh, reflect, and definitely dance. Directed by Sepy Baghaei (Gate Theatre’s Wish You Were Here) and starring Ariyan Sharma (STC’s Dear Evan Hansen) and Ashan Kumar in his mainstage debut, get ready for a high-energy fusion of theatre, music, and spoken word rolled into one poignant, euphoric experience.  Presented as part of Riverside’s National Theatre of Parramatta 2025 Season Programme and playing during Parramatta Lanes Festival, Daytime Deewane runs from October 16-25 at Live at PHIVE. For tickets, performance times, an

As the weather warms up, the spontaneous afternoon tipples, Sunday wine sessions, and boozy alfresco lunches start to make a welcome comeback. And if your wine rack is ready for a refresh, we’ve got just the thing. This spring, the beloved Orange Wine Festival returns to Australia’s cool-climate gem, the Orange Wine Region. It’s your chance to discover new favourites, meet the makers, and soak up the sunny weather – one glass at a time. With nearly 40 unique events hosted by the region’s passionate vignerons and winemakers, the festival promises a flavour-packed journey through one of Australia’s most exciting wine destinations. Whether you're strolling through sun-dappled gardens, tasting straight from the barrel, or indulging in curated menus paired with local wines, there’s something for every palate.  The festivities begin with the Orange Wine Festival Night Market, a twilight event where guests can sip and stroll beneath the stars, sampling local drops and gourmet bites. Then, on October 24, the second weekend brings the highly anticipated Sip & Savour, hailed as the ultimate wine tasting experience. Think speed dating, but with wine, and minus the awkward small talk. Instead, ticket holders are “matched” with over 300 award-winning wines from the 2025 Orange Wine Show. By the end of the night, you’re bound to have found the perfect wine to add to your rack.  If you’re craving something even more intimate, take a private guided winery garden walk or dine with the winemak

It’s no secret that Mountain Culture Beer Co. is one of Australia’s most loved craft breweries. You see people rocking their merch everywhere, from the streets of Katoomba to the beaches of WA. We’ve even spotted a few hoodies in the Big Smoke overseas. And it’s easy to see why: their beers are world-class.  Having recently expanded to Sydney, the wait is finally over for Melbournians – Mountain Culture has officially landed in Richmond, bringing the full brewpub experience to Victoria for the first time. It’s a move that Mountain Culture is particularly excited about, given how many Melburnians are avid Mountain Culture drinkers. Hop off the tram and follow your nose – the scent of fresh hops will guide you straight to the door. Expect the usual award-winners like the Status Quo Pale Ale that has won Australia's number one beer 3 years in a row in the GABS Hottest 100, plus two new limited-edition beers every week. Not only will the venue be pouring their famed beers, they’ll be brewing them onsite. And if you’re keen to take the experience home, grab a few takeaway tinnies. Not a beer drinker? No worries, cocktails and wine are also on offer. Of course, no pub session is complete without a hearty feed. With a smoker imported from Texas, the kitchen serves up a mouth-watering American-style BBQ menu. The space itself is just as impressive. Housed within a warehouse and boasting a retractable roof that opens on those days the Melbourne sun decides to make an appearance, the v