The best things to do in Sydney this August

August is upon us, bringing slowly extending hours of winter sunshine, wattle explosions and a host of creative and cultural activities set to warm us up in time for spring.

This last month of the cold season will be delivering the goods, with an incredible round-up of theatre shows and art exhibitions keeping us entertained, and the city’s best restaurants and bars serving up happy hour specials and price-slicing deals to keep the cost of living woes at bay.

For a nature hit this August, we’d suggest taking an icy dip at one of Sydney’s best ocean pools, checking out Sydney Cherry Blossom Festival, or getting some mountain air on one of the best walks in the Blue Mountains.

If you need some help warming up, head to Barangaroo’s pop-up harbourside sauna, or settle in with a glass of mulled wine at one of Sydney’s cosiest pubs. Want to escape to Japan without the price tag? Sydney's stunning Japanese precinct Prefecture 48 is hosting a transporting bar residency with beloved spirit brand Suntory.

Scroll on for our full list of everything to do in Sydney this August. 

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Want to really capitalise off the cold? Check out our list of the best hot springs you can soak in across NSW, or lean into the seasonal spirit with one of these cool winter activities.