The best things to do in Sydney this February

The month of love is upon us, and Sydney is turning up the heat in more ways than one. For the first few days, the city is transforming into a Snake-inspired wonderland as Lunar New Year celebrations (including some exceptional feasts) roll on.

Next up, the fastest sailing competition in the world is gracing our shores – the Aussie team took home gold at the Auckland round of SailGP, and we’ve got high hopes for their performance on home waters. Plus, the 2025 Sydney Mardi Gras program kicks off on February 14 – bringing a series of spicy parties and events to the Rainbow Mile and beyond.

Throughout the month, Sydney’s outdoor cinemas will be screening history’s best romantic movies under the stars, and restaurants and bars across the city will be serving up romance in spades (these are our favourite underground spots, and these are the best rooftop bars if you want to kiss in the open air).

If you’re looking for a spot to celebrate the big day, our pick of Sydney’s best new restaurants should help – or mix it up with one of these fun, budget-friendly date ideas.

Keen to get out of town? These are the best camping sites close to the city, and these are our favourite spots for a weekend getaway.

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Want more summer fun? Check out our guide to the coolest things to do in Sydney this weekend.