Jagged Little Pill the Musical original Broadway castCredit: Matthew Murphy
Jagged Little Pill the Musical the 15-time Tony Award nominated Broadway musical premiers in Sydney December 2021 at Theatre Royal Sydney.
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Explore the enlightening events calendar in NSW this winter and discover the soul of the city through creativity, curiosity and change at Vivid Sydney 2022; feel the action of high-stake sporting competitions; celebrate local producers at inaugural festivals of flavour; or step it up a gear and tackle a military-inspired obstacle course.
Biennale of Sydney | on now, until 13 June
Sydney
Dynamic contemporary art from around the globe comes to venues across Sydney at this year’s Biennale, titled rīvus. Inspired by rivers, wetlands and other salt and freshwater ecosystems feature, the 23rd Biennale of Sydney is exhibited across Barangaroo, Walsh Bay and the city’s leading galleries and museums.
Hunter Valley Wine and Food Festival | 29 April – 30 June
Hunter Valley
A celebration of the region’s renowned wineries and epicurean experiences, the Hunter Valley Wine and Food Festival features bespoke events across all of May and June. From long lunches to wine masterclasses and even a chance to watch the burning of the barrels, the festival brings together unique events during the season’s crispest days and nights.
Vivid Sydney | 27 May – 18 June
Sydney
In its 12th year in 2022, Vivid Sydney transforms the city with a celebration of creativity, innovation and technology. This year Vivid Sydney features the longest light walk in the festival’s history, with mesmerising art displays and 3D light projections from Central Station to Sydney Opera House’s Lighting of the Sails. Discover exhilarating live music performances for all ages and deep-dive discussions from some of the world’s brightest minds.
Moulin Rouge! The Musical! | 28 May – 25 September
Capitol Theatre, Sydney
Winner of 10 Tony Awards including Best Musical, Baz Luhrmann’s revolutionary film comes to life on stage, welcoming the audience to a world of splendour, romance, glitz and grandeur. The new musical mash-up features more than 70 songs, including many of the iconic hits from the movie, as well as additions from Adele, Katy Perry, Sia, Beyoncé, Rihanna and more.
NCHA Futurity | 30 May – 12 June
Australian Equine and Livestock Events Centre, Tamworth
A highlight on the equine calendar, the Futurity it is the biggest and richest indoor sporting horse event in the Southern Hemisphere. Steeped in history, Tamworth’s action-packed horse cutting competition draws competitors from around Australia, all vying for a share of more than $700,000 in money and prizes on offer.
North Coast Festival of Flavour | 3 – 5 June
NSW North Coast
The inaugural North Coast Festival of Flavour brings together the tastiest elements of the region in a not-to-be-missed long weekend full of delicious, one-off events. From nose-to-tail long lunches to craft beer tastings and even a mud crab river cruise, this new festival celebrates the best of the North Coast.
Dubbo Winter Whisky Festival | 17 – 18 June
The Establishment Bar & The Old Dubbo Gaol
Celebrating the region’s whisky distillers over two intimate nights, The Dubbo Winter Whisky Festival is a chance to celebrate this warming amber spirit. On 17 June guests are invited to an intimate dinner and whisky tasting at The Establishment Bar, and on 18 June there will be local food and dessert vendors and live entertainment on the tranquil grounds of the historic Old Dubbo Gaol.
Tulloch Wines, Pokolbin Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying a wine tasting experience at Tulloch Wines, Pokolbin.
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Tulloch Wines, Pokolbin Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying a wine tasting experience at Tulloch Wines, Pokolbin.
Vivid Sydney 2022_’For Sydney with Love’_’Ken Done’_Credit ‘Spinifex Group’. Credit: Spinifex Group
For Sydney with Love is a celebration of Sydney, its icons and natural environment on the foreshore and the harbour, under the sea, in the sky, and though the artist’s imagination. A story of optimism, colour and joy
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Vivid Sydney 2022_’For Sydney with Love’_’Ken Done’_Credit ‘Spinifex Group’. Credit: Spinifex Group
For Sydney with Love is a celebration of Sydney, its icons and natural environment on the foreshore and the harbour, under the sea, in the sky, and though the artist’s imagination. A story of optimism, colour and joy
True Grit Enduro Titles | 25 – 26 June
Dargle Farm, Hawkesbury
True Grit is the only Australian-owned military-inspired obstacle course race created by Australian special forces. With 30 obstacles to navigate over 10 kilometres, the course runs through grasslands, temperate rainforest, dense swamps, granite escarpments and towering sandstone cliffs on farmland on the Hawkesbury River.
Bathurst Winter Festival | 2 – 17 July
Bathurst
This annual community event is a celebration of the magic of winter in Bathurst, bringing together stunning light shows across historic buildings, live music, food and wine events, outdoor ice skating and show rides, in a carnival atmosphere.
Jagged Little Pill | From 9 July
Theatre Royal Sydney
Returning to Sydney after a sell-out season, Tony® award-nominated Broadway rock musical, Jagged Little Pill, takes the stage again at Theatre Royal Sydney in July. Relive Alanis Morissette’s epic 1995 album, including beloved hits such as You Oughta Know and Ironic with music artist Natalie Bassingthwaighte leading the Australian cast.
Splendour in the Grass | 22 – 24 July
North Byron Parklands, Byron Bay
The 20th year of this iconic music festival features headliners like the Gorillaz, The Strokes, Tyler the Creator, the Yeah Yeah Yeahs and many more international and Australian acts. One- or three-day tickets are available, as well as all-access tickets to the VIP village, which offers private viewing areas, cocktail bars, fancy bathrooms and more.
Fleurs de Villes: FEMMES | 19 – 28 August
The Calyx, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney
The inaugural flower exhibition Fleurs de Villes: FEMMES will bring a ten-day fresh floral display to The Calyx celebrating culturally, politically, and historically significant women throughout the ages. Along with mannequins dressed in breathtaking flower outfits, the event will also include workshops, flower markets and local produce.
The Phantom of the Opera |19 August – 16 October
Sydney Opera House
Experience the phenomenon of one of the most successful musicals of all time, The Phantom of the Opera, as it makes its Sydney Opera House debut in the Joan Sutherland Theatre. Cameron Mackintosh’s new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary show features hit after hit in the thrilling score, including Music of the Night, Masquerade and beloved title song.
True Grit 2019, Lower Portland Credit: Destination NSW
Competitors take on the military style obstacle challenges in the 2019 True Grit event, Lower Portland.
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True Grit 2019, Lower Portland Credit: Destination NSW
Competitors take on the military style obstacle challenges in the 2019 True Grit event, Lower Portland.
The Calyx, The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying a walk through The Calyx in The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney.
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The Calyx, The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying a walk through The Calyx in The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney.
Bouddi National Park, BouddiCredit: Destination Central Coast
Scenic coastal views from Bouddi National Park, Bouddi.
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What better way to keep the adventure going after your Vivid Sydney visit by exploring our natural wonders just outside of the city? A treasure trove of experiences await: hike into the mountains, taste wine from the barrel and walk among the treetops. And best of all, these trips are all within 2.5 hours’ drive of Sydney – perfect if you’re looking to extend a holiday for just a few days.
Blue Mountains | 1.5 HOURS’ DRIVE
Named for the beautiful haze that hangs over the sleepy villages, ancient rock formations and bushland, the magnificent Blue Mountains is one of Sydney’s favourite weekenders for good reason.
There’s nothing quite like a hike in the fresh mountain air at golden hour, though taking in the expansive valleys atop a lookout or cable car comes close. Whether you adventure and abseil all day or focus on fine-dining and uncovering some stunning op-shop finds, soak off the day at luxury accommodation.
Things to do
- Take a sunset selfie at Three Sisters
- Ride the Skyway into the clouds at Scenic World
- Soak into true serenity at the Japanese Bath House
- Explore Jenolan Caves’ limestone labyrinth
- Embrace the wilderness at Turon Gates Mountain Eco-Retreat
- Learn about Indigenous culture on a walkabout tour
Central Coast | 1 HOURS’ DRIVE
A stone's throw from Sydney, a million miles from a care in the world… that wraps up the Central Coast region in a nutshell. There’s an enviably relaxed beach lifestyle here – with kilometres of sand and Pacific Ocean to explore – but national parks abound, too, and calm waterways ideal for throwing in a line, or conquering with a kayak. The coast with the most? You bet.
Things to do
- Take in the eight kilometre Bouddi Coastal Walk
- Zip-line through the Ourimbah State Forest at Treetops Adventure
- Embrace First Nations knowledge and culture with a Girri Girra walking tour
- Have breakfast with alpacas
- Whale watch and explore coastal rainforest at Wyrrabalong National Park
- Catch a flick at the colourful Avoca Beach Theatre
- Stay at the idyllic The Boathouse Hotel Patonga
The Hunter Valley | 2.5 HOURS’ DRIVE
The Hunter Valley is renowned for its Sémillon and shiraz varietals, acclaimed wineries and restaurants, luxury resorts, world-class spas and championship golf courses.
Wander through the wine-tasting hotspot of Pokolbin, explore the majestic Hunter Valley gardens, picnic amongst the vines on fresh local produce and don’t miss spying the lush Hunter from above in a hot-air balloon.
Things to do
- Try out top-drops from the historic Tyrrell’s, explore organic wines at Tamburlaine or biodynamic options at Krinklewood
- Visit a Provencal pocket at Bistro Molines
- Take a hot-air balloon ride at sunrise with Beyond Ballooning
- Stay in luxury at the Crowne Plaza
- Ride through bushland and vineyards with Hunter Valley Horses
Scenic World, Katoomba Credit: Destination NSW
Cablecar at Scenic World, Katoomba
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Scenic World, Katoomba Credit: Destination NSW
Cablecar at Scenic World, Katoomba
Beyond Ballooning, Hunter Valley Credit: Destination NSW
Couple arriving for a sunrise hot air balloon ride with Beyond Ballooning in the Hunter Valley.
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Beyond Ballooning, Hunter Valley Credit: Destination NSW
Couple arriving for a sunrise hot air balloon ride with Beyond Ballooning in the Hunter Valley.
Kiama, Jamberoo & More | 2 HOURS’ DRIVE
Feel the sea spray hit your skin at the blowhole at Kiama, only 30 minutes south of Wollongong. Away from the famous rock formations, epic waves and grassy seaside slopes, Kiama is a place of nature hikes, fancy seafood feasts on waterside decks and unique adventures. Take yourself on a wild and wonderful trail winding through windswept headlands and extraordinary beaches.
Things to do
- Get your Tarzan on and try the after-dark zipline at Illawarra Fly
- Swoosh down a waterslide at Jamberoo Action Park
- Enjoy breakfast with a beach view at Penny Whistlers
- Have a surf lesson with Surf Camp Australia
- Hike through Minnamurra Rainforest
- Stay in luxury at The Pause, Gerringong
Newcastle | 2 HOURS’ DRIVE
Newcastle is an unbeatable mix of golden beaches, luscious food and buzzing culture that makes you feel high on life. Have a dip at Merewether, dine overlooking the surf break and delve into the edgy boutiques and bars. This coastal hub is also in a sweet spot with the Hunter Valley less than an hour west.
Things to do
- Hop between cafes, museums and more at the waterfront Honeysuckle precinct
- Stay at the boutique QT Newcastle
- Take a long stroll along Bathers Way
- Visit Newcastle Art Gallery
- Dine on fresh seafood at Merewether Surf House
Stand Up Paddle Boarding Shellharbour, Minnamurra River Credit: Destination NSW
Friends kayaking on the Minnamurra River on the NSW South Coast
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Stand Up Paddle Boarding Shellharbour, Minnamurra River Credit: Destination NSW
Friends kayaking on the Minnamurra River on the NSW South Coast
Jana Restaurant & Bar, QT Newcastle Credit: QT Hotels & Resorts
A selection of dishes from Jana Restaurant & Bar, QT Newcastle
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Jana Restaurant & Bar, QT Newcastle Credit: QT Hotels & Resorts
A selection of dishes from Jana Restaurant & Bar, QT Newcastle
Southern Highlands | 1.5’ HOURS DRIVE
Located midway between Sydney and Canberra, the NSW Southern Highlands provides a welcome relief to the hustle of city life – a meld of classic and contemporary country culture. Innovative winemakers immersed in traditional methods. Morning truffle hunts evolving into modern dégustations. Pack your gum boots and head off to stay in an ivy-draped country manor or an architecturally designed farmhouse.
Things to do
- Get back to nature with a forest bathing session at Osborn House
- See cutting-edge art in a restored dairy turned art gallery, Ngununggula
- Browse literary treasures at Berkelouw Book Barn
- Antique the afternoon away at Dirty Janes Bowral
- Enjoy sustainable wines at Tractorless Vineyard Cellar Door
- Visit picture-postcard village Robertson (the setting for Australia’s hit film Babe)
- Spend a night at the charming Old Bank Boutique Hotel
Wollongong | 1.5 HOURS’ DRIVE
Adorned by rainforest-covered escarpment and the stunning golden beaches of the South Coast, NSW’s third-largest city is a fun, vibrant and delicious urban centre that offers diverse appeal.
Just getting to Wollongong from Sydney is a tourist attraction. Instead of taking the M1 Princes Highway, take the Grand Pacific Drive, a spectacular touring route through the Royal National Park to Stanwell Park and south over the Sea Cliff Bridge.
Things to do
- Spot fairywrens, herons and more at Puckey’s Estate Nature Reserve
- Dine at the award-winning Babyface Kitchen
- Spend an afternoon at Wollongong Art Gallery
- Explore the Southern Hemisphere’s largest Buddhist Temple, Nan Tien
- Take a guided tour of the historic Blue Mile
- Catch live tunes and good vibes at La La La’s
Looking to go further afield?
If you have time on your hands, NSW has plenty more wonders to explore. Head to the Snowy Mountains for some time on the ski slopes; venture west towards the edge of the Great Dividing Range for world-heritage wilderness and Mudgee’s wine region, or escape it all on the Sapphire Coast.
Plan your Vivid Sydney trip now: vividsydney.com
Sea Cliff Bridge, Clifton Credit: Destination NSW
Sun rising over the Sea Cliff Bridge, Clifton.
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Sea Cliff Bridge, Clifton Credit: Destination NSW
Sun rising over the Sea Cliff Bridge, Clifton.
Horse Riding, Jindabyne, Snowy Mountains Credit: Destination NSW
Horse riding in Jindabyne, Snowy Mountains. For media use only in Australian markets to promote NSW.
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Horse Riding, Jindabyne, Snowy Mountains Credit: Destination NSW
Horse riding in Jindabyne, Snowy Mountains. For media use only in Australian markets to promote NSW.