Olivia Hart

The state’s largest independent arts festival, Sydney Fringe Festival, is back for 2026 – with more than 350 events hitting our stages for one very entertaining month. Taking over the city throughout September, the dynamic program spans boundary-pushing theatre to wildly impressive circus acts, conversation-shaping comedy and full-throttle parties – and it's going to be ace.  To mark its return, we’re giving away a $500 Sydney Fringe Festival voucher to one lucky winner to help curate their dream itinerary. Check out our top picks below to get you started, then enter in the draw below before midnight, August 24. Fringe Ignite! It all kicks off with a street party in Darlinghurst where everyone is invited. Fringe Ignite! is completely free and you'll get a front row seat to roving performances from acrobats, dancers, circus troupes and more, plus a main stage giving snippets of the festival's spotlight shows.  Stanley Street, Darlinghurst Aug 29 Copa on The Rocks For a spectacular evening of singing, cabaret and surprises, pull up a chair at Copa on The Rocks and settle in for a night to remember with your irrepressible host, Andrew Bukenya.  6-8 Atherton St, The Rocks Sep 2 - Oct 11 Photograph: Supplied | Kurt Sneddon/Sydney Fringe Festival'Copa on the Rocks' at Sydney Fringe Festival Return of The Godz The Greek Gods are back and raising hell in this production of acrobatics, comedy and muscles, fresh off a sell-out season in London’s West E

A lot goes into a great steak. Long before it lands on your plate, it’s passed through the hands of farmers, butchers and chefs, so it’s only fair that some thought goes into how you order it. These days, the benchmark for a good steak is more than just a choice between medium or rare, with everything from breed, feed, cut, ageing time, condiments and, of course, how long you’d like it cooked, worth considering. Navigating this minefield of choices is no easy feat – luckily, we’re here to help demystify the process. We spoke to chef Thomas from 6HEAD, the waterfront steakhouse inside the heritage-listed Campbell's Stores in The Rocks. Known for its premium wagyu and specialty cuts, 6HEAD serves quality steaks and premium Australian beef that match world-class views. Whether you book an alfresco table or settle into the sleek dining room (order the caviar service to start), it's a special-occasion spot worth saving.  Here are chef Thomas' top tips on how to order wagyu and dry-aged steak in Sydney.  How to choose the best steak cut From eye fillet to rib eye, t-bone to flat iron, on the bone or boneless, chargrilled or wood-fired – the choices can feel endless. At Sydney steakhouse 6HEAD, offerings are tight with a selection of black angus steaks and premium wagyu cuts.  If you’re after a reliable steak for one, opt for the black angus. “For a good grilled steak, a MB3 is a great middle ground. My go-to is always a striploin –  it's not as rich, and leaner and lighter to eat.

Whether you know it best as Qudos Bank Arena or are an OG fan who still thinks of it as Sydney Super Dome, the harbour city’s much-loved entertainment venue (and one of Billboard’s 2025 top five live music venues in the world) is stepping into a new era – and that includes a brand-new name. Newly dubbed Afterpay Arena, the venue is marking more than just a name change, with the integration of Afterpay and Square across the arena experience. This means food, beverage and merch purchases are faster and more seamless. So you can spend more time belting out an encore or cheering on the Sydney Kings and less time waiting in line.  As if that wasn't reason enough to visit, the event line-up is looking pretty damn good, too. Here are five shows to catch this October.

New South Wales is home to some pretty exceptional road-trip destinations, many of which can be found on the great northbound drive from Sydney. But even among stiff competition, Barrington Coast stands out. A longtime favourite for family holidays and mini-breaks, this sparkling coastline has a habit of turning first-time visitors into regulars.  Stretching from the World Heritage-listed Barrington Tops to the golden sand beaches of Seal Rocks, Forster and Old Bar, this is where you go to properly unplug. Snaking rivers, mossy forests and fresh country air do most of the heavy lifting.   Whether you’re chasing waterfalls (the region *is* home to the state’s tallest) or are here for the farm-to-table food scene and fresh oysters, the Barrington Coast is full of under-the-radar spots worth building an itinerary around. While we can't possibly list them all here, we'll give it a crack. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED:    Want a high-end stay closer to home? These are Sydney’s best luxury hotels Keen to glamp? These are the best glamping spots in NSW

Call it what you will – the rainbow region, the Northern Rivers, the Byron hinterland – the Bundjalung Nation (the region around Byron Bay) holds a certain ineffable magic. I was once told – en route to a very-Byron tea ceremony on a rainy Wednesday evening – that the magic comes from the earth; that the ground beneath the hills, spiked with crystals from a nearby volcano, generates a uniquely healing energy. And though my limited geological understanding prevents me from verifying that fact, I’m confident that there’s something special about this stretch of sparkling coastline and rolling hills that the Arakwal, Minjungbal and Widjabul Wia-bal people call home. Byron Bay – undeniably the region’s most well-known town – has traditionally acted as a place for people to come together, known by the Arakwal people as 'Cavanbah' which translates to mean 'meeting place’. And while the gentrified hippie beach town on Australia’s easternmost point does have its perks – a stunning coastal walk that curls up over a beach-studded stretch of sparkling ocean, high-end hotels that blend sophisticated design with beachside nonchalance, and a restaurant scene to rival any Sydney suburb – we’re of the opinion that the true gems of the region lie outside of town. This ultimate guide to Byron Bay should help you explore it all.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, travel inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED:Feeling inspired?

If the name doesn’t give it all away, the Sapphire Coast is a natural wonderland on the state’s far South Coast, famed for its shimmering blue oceans.  Removed from the familiar staycation circuit closer to Sydney, this is a coastline that feels far less travelled. Long stretches of nature remain largely untouched, a glimpse into the land that’s been cared for by the Yuin Nation for thousands of generations.  The region’s natural beauty is only part of the draw. A growing crop of destination-worthy restaurants is putting the Sapphire Coast firmly on the foodie map, while seaside towns like Merimbula, Bermagui and Eden offer slow living and fresh seafood in abundance. This is the kind of place that’ll have you googling real estate before you’ve even set your bags down. If a sea change is calling (even if only for a long weekend), point the car south and discover why this region begs to be explored.   Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED:  Keen to camp? These are the best places to camp close to Sydney Want a high-end stay closer to home? These are Sydney’s best luxury hotels

The traditional land of the Bhwerawerri, Budawang, Jerrinja, Murramarang, Tomikin, Wandi wandandian, Wodi wodi, Yuin and associated clans, this stretch of rolling hills and stunning coastline a few hours south of Sydney is as close as you'll come to a hidden gem in the age of Instagram.  While beach towns further north attract the noisy glory as the coastal gems of the NSW coastline (Byron Bay, we’re looking at you), the Shoalhaven region is filled with 100 beautiful beaches lining the coastline, 49 towns and villages, a growing number of cellar doors and countless opportunities for marine wildlife spotting. All together, this makes it a beloved holiday haven for anyone looking to escape the city, and – in a way – escape from modern life entirely.  And though it's still blessed with the old-world, laidback energy that it's loved for, this once little-known destination is undeniably on the up – with roadside motels morphing into high-end stays, and low-key pubs becoming award-winning restaurants. Despite the region's ballooning offering, it still feels divinely unspoiled; quietly beautiful, gorgeously unpretentious and home to everything that makes a weekend away feel like a real, soul-enriching holiday.   Whether you’re a surfer, rock climber, bushwalker or really just love your food, we’ve put together a guide to the best places in this heavenly region that keeps on calling us back.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & dri

Australia is a nation rich with incredible artists and mind-blowing exhibitions. Whether you favour sculpture, painting, photography or textiles, there’s something for every kind of artistic persuasion ready to pop off at Australia’s biggest art exhibitions in 2026. We've rounded up just a few Aussie wonders that have us pre-booking flights in eager anticipation.  A winter standout is the never-seen-before-in-Australia glittering jewel collection from Cartier at the NGV, along with the blockbuster Monet to Matisse exhibition in Adelaide. Scroll on for our pick of the best art exhibitions in Australia in 2026. Our editors will update this guide as new exhibitions are announced. 🖼️ The best art galleries in Australia👀 The best museums in Australia

Roll out the red carpet! The Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) hits play on August 6, and to celebrate, Time Out is giving away a Multipass-6 valued at $154.20 so one lucky winner can make the most of the stacked program of flicks. Five runner-ups will also receive a double pass (two admit one tickets*) so you and a pal can attend any standard film session of your choice.  MIFF is one of the world’s oldest film festivals, alongside the likes of Cannes and Berlin – and 2026 marks an impressive 74 years of bringing artistic cinema to Melbourne. Screenings are taking place across the city, from retro joints like the Capitol and the Forum to beloved spots like Cinema Nova and the Astor Theatre. All that’s left to do is enter below before July 31 for your chance to win and get ready to pass the popcorn. Find out more about the full program here.   *Admit one tickets are not valid for opening night, regional screenings, select talks or other special events. 

Sydney’s after-dark offering gets a bad rap, and while the lockout laws did change things for a while, a whole lot of love and care has been poured into Sydney’s night-time offering over the past few years. One of the major outcomes? A whole heap of live music venues – with live music venues across NSW quadrupling since 2023 (and still growing).  As out-and-about enthusiasts here at Time Out Sydney, we're very much here for it. So our team of editors – including pub-frother and Editor Alice Ellis, resident booze-lover and Editor Avril Treasure and dancefloor addict Winnie Stubbs – have rounded up a list of our fave bars and pubs that host live bands.FYI: If you're aged 18-25, signing up to MyGigPass will score you super cheap tickets to live shows across the state. You're welcome. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Hate the ding-ding of pokie machines? Here's a list of Sydney pubs without pokies. More into dancing to a DJ? Check our guide to the best clubs in Sydney.

If you haven’t yet experienced the quirky chaos that is Spiegel Haus, make sure you get a date in the calendar quickly, because this buzzing pop-up in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD is entering the final weeks of its current season. That's right – the vibrant venue will be closing the doors on its inaugural season this July 26, so save yourself the FOMO and get your final fix. This means that after an impressive 40-week run, the headline show Blanc de Blanc, a thrilling mix of circus and comedic Parisian cabaret, is drawing to a close. While goodbyes are hard, they say if you don't laugh, you’ll cry. Luckily, this show makes it incredibly easy to choose the former. Beyond the headline act, there are still plenty of belly laughs to be had across a world-class line-up of cabaret, burlesque, comedy and family entertainment, including Gunuwarra – Deep Winter Rooftop Gathering, a celebration of NAIDOC in partnership with Aboriginal Melbourne; Cabaret Vertigo, presented by the National Institute of Circus Arts; and Verbena Rooftop: Latin Winter Festival.  Taking over the rooftop of the Golden Square Car Park on Lonsdale Street, this 1,000-capacity entertainment precinct even boasts its own rooftop bar, making it the perfect spot for drinks. Far more than just a night out, Spiegel Haus is a spectacle, managing to surprise and delight even the most cultured Melburnians. You’ll have to see it for yourself to believe it. Book now to experience Spiegel Haus before the venue closes on July

There’s no one way to do Melbourne – especially in winter, when the city really comes into its own. You can go all out and see a blockbuster show, get cosy with soul-soothing bowls of noodles or say yes to absolutely everything, including outdoor activities worth rugging up for. No matter your idea of the perfect day out in Melbourne, we’ve got three types of epic prizes up for grabs, each offering a different way to explore the city.  First up, you could be cheering from the stands with AFL tickets to your choice of three upcoming matches. There are five double passes to win to each game (30 tickets in total) for Level 1 Reserved seating. Pick from Carlton versus Gold Coast on Saturday, July 25 at 1.05pm at Marvel Stadium; Collingwood versus Geelong on Thursday, July 30 at 7.30pm at the MCG; or Western Bulldogs versus North Melbourne on Thursday, August 6 at 7.30pm at Marvel Stadium. To enter, head here.  We know that getting off the couch in winter can feel like a huge effort. That's why we're shouting you a cosy night out at Ikkoryu Fukuoka Ramen. Go in the draw to win one of four $100 vouchers, which you can use to treat the whole crew or stretch across a few ramen runs. Just make sure you spend it before July 30. To enter, head here.  If your ideal winter outing involves popping Champers at a glittering show, we've got you covered. We're giving away tickets to a world-renowned production at the ace pop-up arts precinct Spiegel Haus, including one VIP Double Pass, two Pre

It may be tempting to hibernate inside this winter, but The Rocks is giving you every reason to rug up, head outside and savour the season. For the month of August, you can take part in a $25 cocktail and canapé trail available at not one, but 20 of The Rocks' finest bars and restaurants, catch some tempting happy hours, settle in for weekday lunch deals and check out the newest openings that have Sydney talking.  Here are just some of the deals and meals you have to add to your hitlist: $25 Cocktail and Canape Trail  Fortune of War: Salted Caramel Espresso Martini and caramelised popcorn Glenmore Hotel: Mini Martini and an oyster El Camino Cantina: Pocket Rocket Rita and taco MCA rooftop: Native Garibaldi and smoked trout Endeavour Tap Rooms: Spicy Mule and chicken wings  Happy hours  Mercantile Hotel: $11 pints Como Italian: three spritzes and light bites midweek from 4pm to 6pm The Garden: everything $7 everyday from 5pm to 6pm  Midweek lunch specials Luna Lu: $55 two-course express menu from Monday to Thursday, 12pm to 3pm The Orient and Mrs Jones: winter warmers specials – $19 chowder or $29 chicken pie  Hooked and Harvest: $10 seafood snack pack with a drink Izakaya Mitto: $15 express teriyaki chicken donburi  What’s new Grappa: focaccia and salumi with an Amante Spritz, $25 Cocktail and Canape Trail The Cut (from the crew behind Rockpool Bar & Grill): Pie and Pint experience The Tailor Room: Martini with olives or chips, $25 Cocktail and Canape Trail Find

If you’ve ever wanted to take part in (or witness) a Guinness World Record, then here’s your chance. This July, Sydneysiders are being called on to help set the record for the ‘Most People Performing Dad Stance Simultaneously’ – and everyone’s invited.  Leading the charge is Winter Olympian legend Steven Bradbury, who knows a thing or two about making history. Even if you don't recognise the name, you'll almost certainly know the phrase “pulling a Bradbury” – inspired by his unexpected gold medal win at the 2002 Winter Olympics after all four competitors ahead of him crashed out on the final corner, leaving him to glide across the finish line.  Now it's your turn to pull a Bradbury. All you need to do is perfect your dad stance – that’s hands planted firmly on your hips in a slightly judgmental manner and feet shoulder-width apart – and join the record attempt. Not clear on the pose? Just copy any dad in the wild who looks like he’s about to doll out some unwanted instructions or advice.  Ecovacs Robotics is hosting the event at The Calyx in the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney on Saturday, July 18, with the official attempt kicking off at 12pm sharp. Arrive early if you want to secure your spot and help make history. Register to participate here.

’Tis (almost) the season: Christmas may still be six months away, but you won’t have to wait that long for a festive-style fix. A new winter festival is landing at Hay St, bringing an ice-skating rink, winter cocktails and immersive events, from July 1 to August 2. The month-long celebration will see Hay St embrace the season with a special Winterfest menu as the market is decked out with twinkling lights, falling snow in a dedicated laneway, and a pop-up photo booth, where you can snap a souvenir pic to take home. Whether you’re a newbie or a pro, lace up for a 45-minute skate sesh on the synthetic ice rink. Tickets are $10 and include skates as well as a 25 per cent off voucher for food from any stall of your choice.  If you’re less of a skater and more of a spectator – especially when it comes to the hockey-player romance craze currently taking over our screens – Hay St is hosting a one-off American-themed Off Campus Party on Thursday, July 9. Take a study break and step into a real-life campus movie, with cheerleaders, hockey players and campus officers roaming the halls. Entry is $5, with a DJ spinning party tracks all night for anyone keen to hit the dance floor. As if you needed another reason to visit, the market is also hosting the most wholesome date-night activity, with two cosy nights of candlelit jazz performances on July 25 and August 1 from 6-9pm. Winterfest at Hay St runs every Wednesday to Sunday from July 1 to August 2, with free entry. Find out more here.

If the words “it’s just a flesh wound!” ring a bell then you’ve likely come across the extremely funny 1975 film Monty Python and the Holy Grail or the Eric Idle-penned musical Monty Python’s Spamalot based on the cult hit.After picking up three Tony Awards and 14 nominations during its original Broadway run in 2005, the cheeky Arthurian spoof went on to conquer stages around the world, including a Melbourne season in 2019. Now, the knights of the Round Table are saddling up once again for a limited run in Melbourne from September 16 to October 4.  Produced by Drew Anthony Creative, this latest iteration delivers all the original over-the-top musical numbers from composer John Du Perez, mediaeval mayhem and fourth-wall-breaking gags that made the show a hit. Plus, plenty of Monty Python silliness including the beloved anthem “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life”.  “After celebrating 20 years since the original production last year, it is a great honour to restore Monty Python’s Spamalot’s place on Australian shores for fans who have longed for its return and for new audiences to meet the Knights of the Round Table for the first time,” said producer Drew Anthony.  Legendary Australian actor and comedian Stephen Curry is making his musical theatre debut as King Arthur. Joining him on stage is Jaz Flowers (Hairspray) as The Lady of the Lake for the Melbourne run with Marney McQueen (Titanique) taking over for Sydney. To round out the crew, Nick White is taking on the Man of M

If you’ve ventured down to the Windsor end of Chapel Street you’ve likely clocked it being one of Melbourne’s hottest after-hours districts. With plenty of late-night venues packing out the area, one spot not to miss is Tombo Den, a two-storey izakaya-inspired venue from hotshot restaurateur Chris Lucas (Society, Kisume). Channeling the raucous grit of Tokyo’s alleyway eateries with an elevated twist, it’s easy to see why they pack a crowd.  From June 26 to July 24, Tombo Den wants to dial up your Friday with Vinyl Nights, a late-night spin sesh in collaboration with Johnnie Walker. Start (or end) your night upstairs at Tombo Den for a vinyl-spun soundtrack with exclusive limited-edition Johnnie Walker Black Ruby cocktails flowing.  What’s on the menu? For $15, you can take your pick from three bespoke cocktails including the Black Ruby Fizz, which mixes raspberry, davidson plum and shiso umeshu with Johnnie Walker Black Ruby. Get your caffeine fix with the Midnight Walker cocktail, a coffee, macadamia, wattleseed, matcha foam and Johnnie Walker Black Ruby concoction. There’s also Smoke and Ruby, a blend of blackberry, yuzu, pineapple, apricot, citrus bubble and Johnnie Walker Black Ruby. Alongside the drinks, a dedicated snacks menu will be on offer.  Catch the limited-time collab from 8pm till late every Friday night from June 26 to July 24. Miss the Friday festivities? The limited-edition Johnnie Walker cocktails will still be pouring all week long for $22. Find out more h

Winter is the perfect excuse to embrace hot chocolate season, and Ballarat is leaning all the way in. The city's beloved Hot Choc Showdown is back, serving up decadent and over-the-top creations guaranteed to satisfy even the most hardcore sweet tooth.  Returning from June 27 to July 19 as part of the Ballarat Winter Festival, Hot Choc Showdown is on for a limited run this winter school holidays. So, if you were looking for a family-friendly activity to rug up for, how about sampling more than 30 decadent hot chocolates in one epic chocolate trail? Featuring a deliciously sweet line-up of marshmallow-loaded options and boozy adults-only offerings, those who are game to take on the challenge can pick up a map of all the participating vendors at the entrance and set off on a self-guided tasting tour. Cast your vote and you’ll not only help crown Ballarat’s champion hot chocolate but you’ll go in the running to win a Winter Prize Pack, valued at $1500.  Once you’ve had your fill, there’s plenty more reason to stick around. The city-wide annual event features a jam-packed program of food events, gigs and performances and a huge market. Grab another cup and head to the ice-skating rink, get in line for fire-filled medieval action at Kryal Castle or wander through the glowing Winter Wonderlights at Sovereign Hill. To find out more, head here.  

This year marks the very first Firestick, a six-part talk series at The Mint celebrating First Nations visionaries working across creative industries, media and sports. Part of Museums of History NSW’s 2026 program, the free series brings together trailblazing voices shaping the future for the next generation.  The series kicked off in April, with the next installment, Runway Country on June 18, celebrating the next wave of First Nations talent redefining the industry. The event will feature Whadjuk Noongar man Nathan McGuire as the guest speaker, who is an Australian model and founder of Mob in Fashion. Nathan will be in conversation with Liam Keenan, Senior Producer of First Nations programs at Museums of History NSW.   Then, on August 13, After the News, the Truth-Telling talk brings together leading figures in journalism and media to discuss how meaningful change can be created across the industry. Cinephiles won’t want to miss Through a Black Lens on September 10, where creatives behind the camera will share how they’re bringing First Nations stories to a global audience. Closing out the series is Wearing It With Pride – an exploration of the cross-cultural power of sport in Australia, featuring decorated athletes reflecting on their impact both on and off the field. Be sure to stick around after the talks for snacks and drinks in The Mint courtyard from Redfern’s The Noble Hops pop-up bar. Find out more here. 

There’s something so comforting about a pie. What’s not to love about the flaky, flavour-packed pocket of joy, warmed to perfection and slathered in tomato sauce? It’s little wonder, then, that one of the region’s most beloved winter drawcards is all about the hearty pastry. Returning for its fourth year this August 1-31, Ballarat’s Best Pie will see 30 bakeries, cafes, restaurants and pubs battle it out for the coveted title.  Take your pick from savoury and sweet (or both), with twists on traditional favourites and brand-new creations competing for the crown. This year’s line-up might be the most inventive yet, featuring everything from a chicken parma pie to a cheeseburger pie and an ice-cream pie inspired by Wagon Wheels.  Judging will take place on August 1, with a panel awarding winners across six categories before the full line-up is made available to the public, who have the entire month of August to try them out and vote for the People’s Choice. Better still, anyone who casts a vote will go in the draw to win a getaway to Ballarat.  Whether you’re a pie connoisseur or simply looking for a foodie getaway, there’s plenty to do in Ballarat this winter as the city warms up with a jam-packed program worth rugging up for. From a short film festival to a jousting championship, it's easy to see why Ballarat was recently named Australia’s happiest place with so much fun to be had. You can view the map of participating venues and follow the pie trail here.

When you think of winter in Melbourne, waterfront destinations probably aren’t the first thing that come to mind. After all, when the temperatures drop, dragging yourself out of the house is hard enough. But this season, we’ve got a great reason to rug up and head down to the water.   A new event series is bringing the heat to Melbourne’s waterfront, transforming Docklands into a lively winter destination filled with street food, live entertainment and sport. Running across three dates between June and September, The Street Social will take over Harbour Esplanade with a curated line-up of major events here to keep you out of hibernation.  This June 13-14, Waterfront Sessions is kicking things off with a weekend-long celebration featuring DJs, silent disco sessions, live AFL screenings and family-friendly activities. In between the action, refuel with bites from Little Yarra Crêperie, Paella Truck and Chef Calamari. What’s on the menu? Sweet and savoury crêpes, galettes and hot drinks to warm you up from Seven Seeds coffee, alongside flavour-packed paellas and restaurant-quality seafood, including fish and chips and calamari.  The Street Social runs across three epic weekends, each bringing a new theme and experience. Following Waterfront Sessions, Winter Warmer arrives from August 22-23, before the series wraps up with September of Sport from September 5-6.  Waterfront Sessions runs from 12pm to 7pm on Saturday, June 13 and Sunday, June 14 with free entry. Find out more here.

In case you missed it, the Art Gallery of NSW’s next blockbuster exhibition – the captivating new exhibition dedicated to Vishnu, the Hindu deity who preserves order in the universe – lands this June. Before you book your tickets to Avatar: Forms of Vishnu, here's a hot tip: Time Out Social Club is hosting an insider event offering 75 Time Out readers free double passes to a private viewing of the exhibition before gallery hours, with guides on hand to walk you through this intriguing show.  Avatar: Forms of Vishnu marks the first Australian exhibition dedicated to Vishnu, bringing together centuries of art and storytelling from South Asia and Southeast Asia. Discover epic tales of heroism, love and devotion across more than 200 artworks on display, spanning ancient sculpture, textiles, paintings, photography and large-scale contemporary installations.  Here are all the details:  Date: Saturday, June 27 Time: 9am to 10am Location: Art Gallery of NSW (Naala Badu building)Enter: To go in the draw, enter your details below before June 18

It’s old meets new this winter when some of Sydney’s most historic houses will be transformed into intimate live music gig venues. Say hello to the six experimental artists shaking Sydney up from June to August in the House/Music series presented by Museums of History NSW.  It all kicks off at Hyde Park Barracks on June 19 with loscil, a Canadian electronic artist whose 20-year discography spans the genres of ambient, classical and electroacoustic. Next up is Andrew Tuttle and Darren Cross performing in the Clerk’s Room upstairs at The Mint on July 3. Cross is best known for his Australian take on the solo instrumental guitar while Tuttle’s exploratory sounds feature everything from the five-string banjo to electronics.   Head to Elizabeth Bay House on July 17, where Canadian-American musician, composer and artist claire rousay performs musique concrète, layering voicemails, iPhone field recordings, whispers and conversations with autotune vocals. On July 31, jazz supergroup Believe will fill the Justice and Police Museum with their improvisational sounds. Hear the electronic soundscapes of Wytchings, the music project of artist Jenny Trinh, performing at Elizabeth Farm on August 14. To round out the series, Australian guitarist and composer Hiary Geddes Quartet caps off the series on August 28, with a showstopping performance of her latest album at the Justice and Police Museum. Tickets to all performances are on sale now, head here for more info.

NRL fans, mark your calendars — the State of Origin returns to Sydney’s Accor Stadium for Game 1 on May 27. One of Australia’s fiercest sporting rivalries, the series sees Queensland’s Maroons and New South Wales’ Blues battle it out across three unmissable games. With each side stacked with the very best NRL talent, expect non-stop action from the very first whistle. Whether you’re heading to one of the matches or tuning in on the telly, don’t forget to don your jersey and show where your allegiances lie.  When are the State of Origin games on?  Game 1 will play at Accor Stadium in Sydney on Wednesday, May 27 while Game 2 heads to Melbourne’s MCG on Wednesday, June 17. The final match will play at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium on Wednesday, July 8.  What time is State of Origin kick-off? Make sure you've turned Channel Nine or Fox Sports on by 8.05pm. If you want to try your luck for tickets to Origin at Accor Stadium, head over here. Otherwise, you can catch all the action on Nine or Fox Sports from 8.05pm. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, things to do and travel inspo, straight to your inbox. Looking for a pub to watch the game from? Here's the list of our favourite pubs.

It’s official: the summer heat is well and truly here, which means Vancouverites are on the hunt for a tasty dish to cool down with. Look no further because Beaucoup Creamery at Time Out Market Vancouver is dishing out butter soft serve (yes, you read that right) and it tastes like summer in a bowl. Photograph: Beaucoup CreameryTime Out Market Vancouver If that wasn't tempting enough, the menu also features a French butter cone to go with your soft serve which you can order in either original or guava flavour for a bit of a kick. Plus, there’s also a crunchy and creamy le grand croustillant glacé ice cream sandwich when you’re ready for seconds.  Photograph: Beaucoup CreameryTime Out Market Vancouver Where is the best ice cream in Vancouver? The masterful creations are the work of brother-sister duo Betty and Jacky Hung who have brought the concept exclusively to Time Out Market Vancouver. The dessert counter is one of their two ventures at the Market, the other is an offshoot of their Vancouver-based bakery Beaucoup. Time Out Vancouver spoke with one half of the duo about their two Time Out Market Vancouver stalls and how they came to be.  Photograph: SuppliedTime Out Market Vancouver What's the history of Beaucoup?  We started in 2011, specializing in French-inspired pastries. It’s a family business, Betty is my sister and she’s the executive chef – so the brain behind all the pastries and goodies. I help out with the front-of-house aspect.  We’re well known for our

In case you missed it: Time Out Market Vancouver has been open for a whole month! Located inside Oakridge Park Mall, a sprawling hub for shopping, dining and culture, the new drink and dining destination brings together the city's most celebrated chefs and bar talents under one roof. While you should definitely visit for the incredible food and drinks, there’s also a curated lineup of live music, DJ sessions and sports screenings (with the soccer season on as we speak). Plus, the Time Out Corner and Hideaway Lounge host a weekly workshop so you can pair your meal with an activity.  Here’s what’s on this July. 1. Stir, shake, sip and savour The food may be the main attraction at Time Out Market Vancouver but the drinks are just as worth the trip. On July 8, pull up a seat at the bar and learn how to shake, stir and pour like a pro at this 75-minute cocktail masterclass. Led by Canadian Club ambassador Mike McLean from Suntory Global Spirits, the hands-on workshop starts at 7pm and includes a welcome drink, an exclusive gift and plenty of insider tips. Want to make a night of it? Add a $20 food credit to use at the Market. The event is open to guests aged 19 and over.   Photograph: SuppliedTime Out Market Vancouver   2. Candle making workshop If you’re more into the cosy things in life, book a ticket for the candle making class on July 22 at 7pm. Led by Ollie & Co, the beginner-friendly two-hour class will teach you how to pour your own candle with wcustom fragrance blends i

Time Out Market Vancouver has officially opened its doors at Oakridge Park, bringing together award-winning chefs and some of Vancouver’s best restaurants under one roof. In a city where nearly 200 languages are spoken, it’s no surprise that Vancouver offers a melting pot of cuisines. Pair that with access to the best Pacific Northwest ingredients and menus crossing cultural lines and you’ve got a dining scene that ranks among the best in Canada.  The best part? You can sample it all at Time Out Market Vancouver where everything from classically inspired Spanish to Vietnamese and Thai are on the menu— no plane ticket required. Gather your crew and dig into these standout dishes that are well worth the wait.  Photograph: Supplied | Time Out Market VancouverOakridge Park Time Out Market Vancouver Blnd Tgr What to order: Sichuan-style zhong dumplings Blnd Tgr is not your ordinary dumpling shop. The globe-trotting menu celebrates China’s diverse cuisine in the form of piping hot parcels that take inspiration from Jiangsu, Cantonese and Sichuan cuisines. Bite into the lip-tingling zhong dumplings cooked in an aromatic sauce made in-house and spiked with chilli oil and you’ll feel transported to Shanghai, where good food can be found down every neon-lit alleyway.  Kishimoto What to order: Oshi Sushi  Championing premium produce from local farmers, Kishimoto’s kitchen crafts authentic Japanese fare with a local twist. Order dishes like the salmon oshi (torch-seared wild salmon,

It’s more than just the temperatures heating up the city this summer. Soccer fever has landed in town with seven matches on the schedule, and soccer fever is officially red-hot.  If you didn’t manage to score tickets (or prefer to watch on a big screen), we’ve got the perfect place to catch all the action and avoid the inner-city traffic and Downtown street closures.  Is there a Time Out Market in Vancouver? The newly opened Time Out Market Vancouver brings together the best of the city’s food scene under one roof, and it’s also an excellent place to watch the big matches. We’ll be screening them live between the Main Stage and Cocktail Lounge  – including Canada’s first match on Friday, June 12 – so you don’t have to miss a second.  With three bars pouring a curated lineup of drinks, we’ve got all the bases covered — from Okanagan wines and handcrafted cocktails to refreshing mocktails and brews from five of the city’s favourite breweries, including local standout Main St Brewing. Grab a bev and settle into a sunny spot on the pet-friendly patio or wander through the market and discover live DJs and music performances taking over the Main Stage throughout the soccer season. The best part? You can enjoy it all with a meal from some of the best in the biz.  When is the FIFA World Cup 2026 on?  The 39-day tournament runs from June 11 to July 19 across 16 stadiums in the United States, Canada and Mexico.  When is Canada playing in the FIFA World Cup 2026?  Canada vs Bosnia-Herz

Years ago, the late Anthony Bourdain found his favourite Lunch Lady at a nameless noodle stall in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) Vietnam and told the whole world about it. As Chef Nguyen Thi Thanh went from a local legend to a global culinary icon, her legacy carried across the pond with the opening of Vancouver’s Lunch Lady.  Inspired by and made in collaboration with Thi Thanh, the East Vancouver spot is led by Executive Chef and Culinary Director Benedict Lim, who co-owns the restaurant with Michael and Victoria Tran. Quickly evolving from a neighbourhood eatery to a Michelin-recognized spot across North America, Lunch Lady recently ranked in the top 10 global restaurants for 2026. Lim has been on the pans since day dot, though it was a long journey to get there. After being classically trained at Dubrulle Culinary Institute, he spent year after year trying to absorb and learn from as many chefs and places that he could. All this hard work put him in the path of Michael Tran, who had just been given the green light to develop Thi Thanh’s menu into a Vancouver restaurant. “The story was so rich and colourful and soulful, being put on the map by Bourdain’s program [No Reservations] and Thi Thanh being a legend at this point,” Lim told Time Out. “I didn’t exactly know what I was getting into, I just knew the opportunity was bigger than me.”  Six years on and they’ve expanded for the first time in the city to Time Out Market Vancouver, with a menu that packs in all the classics, in

There’s no better way to get to know a city than on foot and in Vancouver, we’re blessed with some of the best (and coolest) streets to traverse.  To find out which cities around the world do walkability best, Time Out surveyed 24,000 urbanites from around the world to ask how pedestrian-friendly their home city is.  The final ranking reflects the highest percentage of locals who rated their city’s walkability ‘good’ or ‘amazing’ and only features the highest scoring city for each country.  Love pounding the pavement? Check out who made the cut.   What’s the most walkable city for 2026? Seoul took out the top spot on the list’s tenth installment, with locals rating it an impressive 93 per cent on walkability. Edinburgh followed closely behind with another 93 per cent seal of approval (despite all the hills) and rounding out the top three was New York City.  Vancouver represented Canada on the list, ranking at number 17, with a 73 per cent walkability score.  What makes Vancouver walkable?  Vancouver is one of the world’s best cities for good reason. Bursting with restaurants, shops, landmarks, beaches, parks and a new Time Out Market opening this spring, there’s plenty of things to do – often just a few suburbs apart. For anyone new in town, Vancouver’s Downtown is simple to navigate on foot with compact streets connecting all the best hotels and Airbnbs with shopping areas, museums and waterfront views.  For some walkable activities, Stanley Park ought to top the list with i

Cracking the Australian property market ain’t easy. Not only is it one of the world’s most expensive places to buy, but houses here always seem to sell way above their asking prices. In fact, data compiled over a recent six-month period by property app Homer reveals that in some parts of the country, properties are selling for more than $100,000 above the guide. That’s pretty wild, considering you could buy an entire house for that sum back in the 1980s. Perth leads the country’s property boom, with 76 per cent of sales exceeding the top of the price guide by a median of $56,000. Adelaide follows, with 73 per cent of properties smashing the asking price at an even higher median of $75,000. Unsurprisingly, Sydney sale prices tend to overshoot the top of the price guide figure by the most in Australia, selling for a median of $117,500 above the advertised guide. Brisbane buyers are facing a similar reality, paying a median of $100,000 above expectations. Interestingly, Melbourne is the only capital city where properties are more likely to sell below the price guide (53 per cent) than above (37 per cent). That difference becomes even more evident in regional Victoria, where a massive 71 per cent of properties sell below the advertised price. Photograph: Design by Time OutData from Homer While laws exist to prevent deliberate underquoting in NSW and Victoria – with agents risking fines of up to $110,000 – a house selling for more than its price guide doesn’t necessarily mean th

2026年5月28日、数カ月にわたる準備と出店ラインアップの発表を経て、「タイムアウトマーケットバンクーバー」がついにオープンした。 マーケットが位置するのは、大規模複合開発「オークリッジパーク」内の一画。約4700平方メートルの空間には、バンクーバーを代表するレストランや料理人たちによる20のキッチン（デザートカウンターとベーカリーカフェを含む）、3つのバー、複数のイベントスペース、そして公園を見渡せるペット同伴可能なテラス席が設けられている。 美食とカルチャーが交差する新たな目的地として期待されるこのマーケットの見どころを紹介しよう。 Photograph: Lunch Lady / Time Out Market VancouverLunch Lady どこにある？ 新たにオープンした「タイムアウトマーケットバンクーバー」は、ウエスト41番街とキャンビーストリートの交差点に位置する「オークリッジパーク」内にある。キャンビーストリートは、近年「世界で最もクールなストリート」の一つにも選ばれた、注目の通りだ。 マーケットは、バンクーバーのダウンタウンとバンクーバー国際空港（YVR）のほぼ中間に位置しており、地元住民にも旅行者にも気軽に立ち寄りやすいロケーションとなっている。 Photograph: Feenie'sFeenie's どんな店やシェフが集まっている？ Barnacle by Bar Bravo：ミシュランにも評価されたシーフードBeaucoup Bakery Café：フランス風ペストリーを提供するカフェBeaucoup Creamery：バター風味のソフトクリームBlnd Tger：モダンなアレンジを加えた餃子Boba Run：フレッシュで遊び心のあるバブルティーDownLow Chicken：名物はホットチキンEspaña：タパスに着想を得たメニューFeenie’s：洗練されたスタイルのグルメバーガーHeritage：コンフォートフードKishimoto：本格的な日本料理Mello：職人仕込みのドーナツPeacock：著名人にも支持されるシェフによるモダンインド料理PiDGiN：アジアとフランスを融合させたフュージョン料理SANTO TACO：メキシコ北部にルーツを持つ本格タコスVia Tevere：「Vera Pizza Napoletana（真のナポリピッツァ）」認証を受けたピザ さらに、受賞歴を誇るレストランやシェフもラインアップに加わる。2024年と2025年の「World Culinary Awards」で「カナダ最高のレストラン」に選ばれた店や、人気料理コンテスト番組の優勝シェフによる新業態など、実力派が顔を揃えている。 MaKaam：2024・2025年の「World Culinary Awards」で「カナダ最高のレストラン」に選ばれた名店Mee Bar：「Top Chef Canada 2024」優勝シェフ、チャンティー・イェンによる新業態 Pasta e Basta：「Ask For Luigi」チームが手がけるイタリア料理 この豪華なラインアップを締めくくるのが、「Lunch Lady Vancouver」だ。 Lunch Lady Vancouver：2026年に「世界のベストレストラン」の一つに選ばれた、話題のベトナム料理店 Photograph: Sarawut YuttanavaMaKaam ドリンクの展開は？ マーケット内には3つのバーが設けられ、バンクーバーの活気あるク

It’s official – Time Out Market Vancouver is open for business, bringing together some of the city’s top culinary talent. After months of planning and teasing the full culinary lineup, open day is officially here. Inside the 51,000 square foot space at Oakridge Park, you’ll find 20 kitchens (including a dessert counter and a bakery café), three bars, multiple event spaces and a pet-friendly patio overlooking a public park. The Market is guaranteed to be a go-to gourmet and cultural destination and here’s what to expect.   Photograph: Lunch Lady / Time Out Market VancouverLunch Lady Where is the Time Out Market in Vancouver? The new Time Out Market Vancouver is located at Oakridge Park, set at the crossroads of West 41st Avenue and Cambie Street (recently ranked one of the coolest streets in the world). Time Out Market sits perfectly between downtown Vancouver and YVR Airport—making it a super easy, convenient stop for locals and visitors.  Photograph: Chef Vikram Vij | PeacockPeacock What local chefs and restauranteurs are at Time Out Market Vancouver?  From celebrated chefs to rising talent, the Market is serving up every food combo possible. Dig into Michelin-recognised seafood at Barnacle by Bar Bravo; French-inspired pastries at Beaucoup Bakery Café; butter-flavoured soft serve at Beaucoup Creamery; dumplings with a modern twist at Blnd Tger; fresh and fun bubble tea at Boba Run; legendary hot chicken at DownLow Chicken; a tapas-inspired menu at España; an elev

Data compiled over a recent six-month period by property app Homer reveals that, in Sydney, properties tend to sell for a median $117,500 above the top of the advertised range. And more properties in NSW have been selling above guide (49.8 per cent) than below guide (39.7 per cent) – with only 10.5 per cent at the guide price.  The recent data reveals that across all capital cities, the typical above-guide sale overshoots by four to nine per cent, while the typical below-guide sale undershoots by only three to five per cent. It probably goes without saying that Sydney sale prices tend to overshoot the price guide figure by the most in Australia. The CEO of Homer, Henry Pedersen, told The Guardian that the real estate industry has a widespread problem with transparency, which leads buyers to invest time chasing properties they can’t afford.   “There are so many different signals buyers are getting. It’s really hard for you to know who you can trust and who you can rely on and what data points are fair and transparent and which ones are just trying to drive inquiry to a property and then sell it 10%, 15%, 20% above that.”  While there are laws in place to prevent deliberate underquoting in NSW – agents risk fines of more than $100,000 – a house selling for more than its price guide doesn’t necessarily mean that the agent has broken the law, especially given how unpredictable auctions can be.  This may start to change, though, since the recent tax reforms announced by the Federa

Small Australian airlines have had a bit of a bad run in recent years, with Rex Airlines going bust in 2024 straight off the back of news that budget carrier Bonza had collapsed. Despite being globally ranked as Australia’s third best airline and connecting dozens of smaller regional towns and cities around the country, Rex couldn’t compete with the duopoly held by Qantas and Virgin Australia. Now, a new budget airline has entered the chat – and we've heard it could be Australia’s answer to Ryanair.  If Zinc Airlines eventuates, it will aim to drive prices down, with a fleet of Airbus A321neos set to bypass the competitive market of the country’s busiest airports and take flight from the new Western Sydney International Airport that's opening this October. Peter Kelly – the former head of Qantas’ frequent flyer program – is calling for up to $200 mill to fund his new airline.  Kelly says his plan is to model the airline on the ultra-low-cost carrier Ryanair, the wallet-friendly airline that's been ferrying Aussies around Europe for years. Kelly hopes to offer cheaper base fares across the country than Jetstar. However, as with most budget airlines, you can still expect all the usual add-on costs for options like seat selection, priority boarding and checked luggage.  Stay tuned for more info. Plus, find out about the other new Aussie airline, Koala Airlines, which will also launch soon.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, travel i

In case you haven’t heard: your new go-to gourmet and cultural destination, Time Out Market Vancouver, is open. Landing at Oakridge Park, get ready for a stellar lineup of food and drink offerings. Not to mention, a spacious outdoor patio that’s soon to be the best spot in town to sink some cold ones come summertime.  Grab a pint from Main St Brewing, one of five microbreweries popping up at Time Out Vancouver Market. Taking its name from the long stretch of road its flagship venue sits beside in Vancouver’s leafy Mount Pleasant neighbourhood, the popular spot has long been a local favourite. What makes them special? Main St Brewing has been pouring high quality craft beer for 12 years now and even as their fan-base grows their mission stays the same: to brew balanced and flavourful beers that will have you visiting time and again.  The friendly team is just as passionate about supporting their community as they are about their beer, regularly backing local initiatives and neighbourhood events. Over the years, they’ve taken part in fundraisers including the Miracle on Main Street Toy Drive and the Canucks Autism Fundraiser. What beers will be available at the Market?  Alongside rotating seasonal offerings spotlighting everything from a Hula Hula Pink Guava to a Passionfruit Sour, these three beers will be mainstays on the taps:  Main Street Pilsner This crisp and clean bev goes down so smoothly there’s no wonder it's their flagship and a gold medal-winning pilsner according