Parramatta’s summer nightlife is calling with a stacked lineup of live entertainment and ace eats

Summer nights were made for long, lazy meals, cocktails and hanging with mates. With its rich diversity of cultures and cuisines, Parramatta delivers one of Sydney’s most exciting dining scenes. Think global flavours with riverside views, rooftop bars like Nick & Nora’s, and a steady stream of dessert bars and late‑night eats to finish the night strong, whether it’s Gelato Messina on Church Street or 24/7 dining at Frankie B’s.

Stroll between Eat Street, Parramatta Square and the Riverside precinct, where you’ll find everything from traditional grills and street‑food favourites to modern Australian menus. One tip? Come hungry – you’ll want room to try it all.

As the cultural heart of Western Sydney – Parramatta offers a thriving creative scene. From live music and theatre to festive celebrations, there’s always something going on. 

Mark your calendar for Lunar New Year 2026 in Parramatta on February 20 and Epping on February 21. This free-entry festival features high-pole Lion Dancers, live music, photo-worthy art, food and family-friendly celebrations. Riverside’s brand‑new space at PHIVE is now home to Riverside Live at PHIVE, kicking off an exciting program from January 2026.  Riverside Live at PHIVE will showcase events including ‘RAW Comedy’ (4 Feb), The Mixed Race Tape (6-7 Feb) ‘Horsing Around’ (18-19 Feb), and ‘Barbra – The Greatest Star’ (26–28 Feb).

Upstairs in PHIVE, there are many creative and cultural experiences on offer including Sound Healing and Mindful Breathwork, every Thursday from 5.30pm to 6.30pm and an Intermediate Watercolour Skills and Techniques workshop every Tuesday from 6pm to 7.30pm. And for something a little different, check out ‘Baba Jedda’s: Mardi Gras edition’ at Parramatta Artist Studios in Granville on Saturday, February 21, a bar‑style experience with live music, drag, dance and storytelling. 

Get behind the local musicians with Burnt Butter Jam live sessions at Gsus4 in Rydalmere. Head there easily via light rail or bus on the last Thursday of every month for sweet tunes and sweet eats from the Little Angel café open late.  

With Powerhouse Parramatta set to open later this year, the cultural offering is only growing.

If Parramatta has a beating heart, it’s CommBank Stadium. Known for its electric atmosphere, the stadium will host a huge summer of sport, from the highly anticipated AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia in March (go Tillies!) to the Western Sydney Wanderers men’s and women’s A‑League matches across February.

On game days, Parramatta Square springs to life, while Church Street keeps the energy going with countless food and drink options. It’s the perfect night out, no matter where you’re coming from. You can score four hours of parking free on Sundays until the end of March at Parramatta Station and Justice Precinct carparks, hop on the train and be at central in 20 minutes or jump on at one of the light rail’s 16 stops. 

Get your tickets now and be part of the action.

If you want to fully immerse yourself in Parramatta’s nightlife, why not make a night of it? Book a stay at one of the area’s stylish hotels, many offering unbeatable riverside views, and enjoy effortless access to restaurants, bars, transport and after-hours experiences. Take your pick from premium or accessible stays, whether it’s a modern hotel like Park Royal Parramatta or a short stay at Skye Suites. It’s the summer reset you didn’t know you needed (oh, did we mention that you can beat the heat at both hotels’ pools?). 

If you want more inspiration, head to At Parramatta’s website. 

This project is proudly funded by the NSW Government through the Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner.