Lorde - Ultrasound World 2026

Lorde returns to Sydney with two nights of bold new music and fan favourites, live at Qudos Bank Arena

Lorde brings her Ultrasound World Tour to Sydney in February 2026, marking her first Australian shows since the Solar Power Tour in 2023. Across two nights at Qudos Bank Arena, fans can expect a live experience shaped by evolution, confidence and emotional depth.

The tour follows the release of Virgin, Lorde’s critically acclaimed fourth studio album, which debuted at number one and signals a striking new chapter in her sound. Co-produced by Lorde alongside Jim-E Stack and Dan Nigro, the album balances expansive production with the lyrical intimacy that has long defined her work.

A new era, live on stage

Virgin captures a bold sonic shift while staying unmistakably personal. Across 11 tracks, the album moves between vulnerability and intensity, offering moments that feel both expansive and deeply individual.

Live, this new material is expected to sit alongside fan favourites, creating a set that reflects Lorde’s growth as an artist while still honouring the songs that first connected audiences to her work.

Two nights at Qudos Bank Arena

With two Sydney dates announced, these shows offer fans the chance to experience the Ultrasound World Tour in one of the city’s largest live music venues. Qudos Bank Arena is easily accessed via public transport from Hotel Woolstore, making it a popular choice for major international tours.

Whether you’re attending one night or both, the concerts promise a powerful, immersive atmosphere shaped by music, light and emotion.

Your Woolstore base

Staying at Hotel Woolstore 1888 places you well connected to Sydney’s major event precincts, with easy access to transport routes linking Pyrmont to Sydney Olympic Park. After the show, return to heritage spaces, generous rooms and the familiar comfort of Percy downstairs.

It’s an easy way to balance the energy of a live concert with a more relaxed place to unwind.

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Lorde - Ultrasound World 2026

More Sydney Moments to Explore

Make the most of what’s happening right now

Discover more events and experiences just steps from Hotel Woolstore 1888 — from waterfront celebrations to unforgettable nights out in Pyrmont.

Event date: From 17 January 2026 to 14 March 2026

Darling Harbour Fireworks 2026

Some evenings in Sydney deserve a little extra colour. When the night settles in and the harbour darkens, the skyline begins to glow and the anticipation builds…

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Darling Harbour Fireworks 2026

Watch Sydney spark to life over Darling Harbour

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Some evenings in Sydney deserve a little extra colour. When the night settles in and the harbour darkens, the skyline begins to glow and the anticipation builds. Just a short stroll from Hotel Woolstore 1888 Sydney, Darling Harbour’s fireworks take centre stage, lighting up the water with bursts of bright celebration.

These free Saturday night displays are a favourite of both visitors and locals. Wander down toward Cockle Bay, find a spot along the foreshore, and let the waterfront become your theatre. The atmosphere feels easy and unplanned, like you just happened to be in the right place at the right time.

From the heritage brickwork of Pyrmont to the waterfront edge, it’s no more than a 5 to 10 minute walk from the hotel. Step out after dinner at Percy, or return from exploring Barangaroo, and let the harbour lead the way.

When to watch

The fireworks typically begin around 9pm on Saturdays during the warmer months. Displays can vary between 5 and 10 minutes, short and spectacular, with just enough time for a moment of wonder before you continue your night.

Weather can influence the schedule, so it’s best to check the latest updates before you head out.

Where to watch

Great views are scattered all around the water

Along the Cockle Bay promenade
From the public seating by the harbour
Or while dining at a waterfront restaurant or bar

No tickets. No queues. Just look up.

Make a night of it

Take the slow walk home, hand in hand or with the night still buzzing around you. Back at the hotel, the warmth of the lobby and the familiar glow of timber and brick welcome you back inside. A little sparkle for your Sydney stay, all within easy reach.

Because sometimes the best memories are the ones that end in fireworks.

Image credit: Destination NSW

Event date: 6 February 2026

OneRepublic – Sweet Escape Tour 2026

GRAMMY®-nominated OneRepublic brings their global tour to Sydney this February, delivering a high-energy live show built around some of the most recognisable po…

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OneRepublic – Sweet Escape Tour 2026

OneRepublic returns to Sydney for a night of stadium-ready anthems, with special guest Freya Ridings

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GRAMMY®-nominated OneRepublic brings their global tour to Sydney this February, delivering a high-energy live show built around some of the most recognisable pop anthems of the past two decades.

Led by songwriter and frontman Ryan Tedder, the band is known for expansive, emotionally charged performances that move easily between stadium scale and personal moments. With special guest Freya Ridings, the night promises both powerful vocals and moments of quiet intensity.

A catalogue built for live performance

Since their debut in 2007, OneRepublic has become one of the most streamed bands in the world, amassing billions of listens globally. Early releases like Dreaming Out Loud introduced hits such as Apologize, while later albums including Waking Up and Native cemented their place in pop culture with tracks like All the Right Moves, Secrets, Good Life and the chart-topping Counting Stars.

Live, these songs take on a new dimension, designed to be sung loudly, felt collectively and remembered long after the final note.

One night at Qudos Bank Arena

The Sydney show takes place at Qudos Bank Arena, one of the city’s premier venues for major international tours. Easily accessed by public transport, it’s a popular destination for large-scale concerts and headline acts.

With a single Sydney date announced, this performance is set to draw fans from across the city and beyond.

Your Woolstore base

Hotel Woolstore 1888 offers a relaxed place to return after a big night out. Well connected to Sydney’s major transport routes, Pyrmont provides easy access to Sydney Olympic Park while offering a calmer pace once the crowds disperse.

Wind down with a nightcap at Percy or ease into the next morning with coffee and breakfast before heading back out.

Event date: From 13 February 2026 to 1 March 2026

Sydney Mardi Gras 2026

Each summer, Sydney transforms into one of the world’s great celebration cities. From mid-February through to the end of the month, Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi…

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Sydney Mardi Gras 2026

Ecstatica comes alive across the city

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Each summer, Sydney transforms into one of the world’s great celebration cities. From mid-February through to the end of the month, Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras brings colour, creativity and community to streets, parks, pools and dance floors across town.

In 2026, the festival returns with Ecstatica, a theme that celebrates joy, expression and the collective energy that has defined Mardi Gras since 1978. Staying at Hotel Woolstore 1888 places you close to Darling Harbour and well connected to the city’s major festival precincts, while offering a relaxed place to retreat between events.

Fair Day

Sunday 15 February 2026 | Victoria Park

Fair Day marks the unofficial opening of Mardi Gras and sets the tone for the weeks ahead. Held in Victoria Park, it’s a daytime celebration that brings together community groups, creatives, performers and families in one joyful, open-air gathering.

Expect live performances, drag, music, market stalls and spaces dedicated to First Nations storytelling, trans communities and long-running Fair Day traditions. It’s relaxed, welcoming and deeply local. A perfect way to ease into the festival before the nights turn bigger and brighter.

Sydney turns it on, day and night (and poolside)

Various dates | Various venues

By the middle weekend of Mardi Gras, the city’s energy shifts up a gear. Iconic events like Paradiso Pool Party take over rooftops and pools, while club nights, day parties and DJ-led events unfold across Sydney.

Whether you’re dancing all day, dipping in for a few hours, or just soaking up the atmosphere around Darling Harbour, this is the weekend where the festival feels fully alive.

Mardi Gala Ball – Taste the Love

Tuesday 24 February 2026 | Ivy Ballroom

New for 2026, the Mardi Gala Ball offers a more intimate way to experience Mardi Gras. Part dining experience, part performance and part storytelling, it celebrates inclusion through food, art and shared moments.

It’s a chance to dress up, slow down, and connect with the spirit of the festival in a more reflective, celebratory setting.

The Parade

Saturday 28 February 2026 | Oxford Street to Moore Park

The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade is the heartbeat of the festival. From the first rev of the Dykes on Bikes to the final float, the night unfolds as a powerful, joyful spectacle of pride, protest and celebration.

More than 12,000 marchers and over 200 floats transform Sydney’s streets into a living expression of community and progress. Viewing options range from free public areas to ticketed grandstands and accessible zones, ensuring everyone can be part of the moment.

Beyond the big moments

Mardi Gras is more than a single night or venue. Across the festival period, Sydney hosts exhibitions, talks, theatre, club nights, community events and pop-ups that span the city. Darling Harbour, Surry Hills, the CBD and inner-city precincts all play their part.

For full event listings, ticket information and official updates, we recommend visiting the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras website, where you can explore the complete program and plan your experience.

Your Woolstore base

After the colour, crowds and celebration, Hotel Woolstore 1888 offers a quieter kind of comfort. Return to heritage spaces, generous rooms and the familiar warmth of Percy downstairs. Start the next day slowly, over coffee and breakfast, before heading back out to discover what the festival has in store.

Mardi Gras is bold, expressive and unforgettable. Staying somewhere grounded, character-filled and well connected makes all the difference.

Event date: From 13 February 2026 to 15 February 2026

Ed Sheeran – Loop Tour 2026

Ed Sheeran brings his highly anticipated Loop Tour to Sydney in February 2026, taking over Accor Stadium for three nights of live music, storytelling and stadiu…

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Ed Sheeran – Loop Tour 2026

Ed Sheeran returns to Sydney with a brand-new live show, spanning three stadium nights this February

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Ed Sheeran brings his highly anticipated Loop Tour to Sydney in February 2026, taking over Accor Stadium for three nights of live music, storytelling and stadium-scale production. The tour marks his return to Australia following record-breaking runs across Australia and New Zealand, where he has already sold more than 2.5 million tickets.

The Loop Tour follows the release of Ed’s new album, Play, and introduces a refreshed live show filled with new material, creative surprises and the global hits that have made him one of the world’s most loved performers. With special guests Vance Joy, Mia Wray and Aaron Rowe, each night promises a full evening of live music.

A new chapter, live on stage

With a renewed creative spirit and a new album behind him, Ed Sheeran’s 2026 stadium shows are set to showcase both evolution and familiarity. Expect stripped-back moments alongside expansive production, as new songs from Play sit comfortably beside the tracks that have soundtracked the past decade.

It’s a live experience designed to feel personal, even at stadium scale.

Three nights at Accor Stadium

Accor Stadium is one of Sydney’s premier venues for major international tours, offering easy access via public transport and major road links. With three dates scheduled, fans have flexibility to plan their visit across the concert weekend.

Whether you’re attending one night or making a full event of it, the shows are expected to draw audiences from across Sydney and beyond.

Your Woolstore accommodation base

For those travelling in for the concert, Hotel Woolstore 1888 offers character-filled accommodation well connected to Sydney Olympic Park. Located in Pyrmont, the hotel provides easy access to transport routes while offering a quieter place to unwind after a high-energy stadium show.

Return to heritage spaces, generous rooms and the welcoming atmosphere of Percy downstairs, then ease into the next morning over coffee and breakfast before heading back out.

Event date: 14 February 2026

Valentine’s Day at Percy, Sydney

Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Sydney with a three-course dining experience at Percy Tucked inside the original wool store, Percy is intimate, moody and made for…

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Event date: From 14 February 2026 to 1 March 2025

Lunar New Year 2026

Each year, Sydney’s Lunar New Year celebrations grow in scale and spirit, bringing together the city’s Chinese, Vietnamese, Thai, Malaysian and Korean communiti…

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Lunar New Year 2026

A city-wide celebration of culture, food and community as Sydney welcomes the Year of the Horse

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Each year, Sydney’s Lunar New Year celebrations grow in scale and spirit, bringing together the city’s Chinese, Vietnamese, Thai, Malaysian and Korean communities in one of the largest Lunar New Year festivals outside Asia.

In 2026, Lunar New Year falls on 17 February, with celebrations unfolding across the city from 14 February to 1 March. This year marks the Year of the Horse, a symbol of confidence, ambition and strength. Even more significant, 2026 welcomes the Fire Horse, which appears only once every 60 years and represents passion, vitality and brightness.

At the centre of it all is the Sydney Lunar Festival, a 16-day celebration that transforms the CBD, Haymarket and Darling Harbour into a vibrant mix of lanterns, performances, street food and shared moments.

Sydney Lunar Streets: where the festival begins

One of the most anticipated moments of the festival is Sydney Lunar Streets, when the laneways of Haymarket come alive for a large-scale street celebration.

From Chinatown to Thaitown, expect lion dances, DJs, pop-up food stalls, markets and traditional and contemporary cultural performances. Lanterns line the streets, while a striking Fire Horse installation rises over Dixon Street, creating a lively, welcoming atmosphere that signals the start of the Lunar New Year celebrations.

It’s festive, energetic and designed to be wandered through, with something happening around every corner.

Lion dancing and cultural performances

Across the festival period, lion dancing and cultural performances take place throughout Haymarket on selected evenings, bringing colour, rhythm and movement to the streets.

Community performers from a range of cultural backgrounds share music, dance and storytelling in short, accessible performances that invite audiences to pause, watch and join the celebration. These moments form the heartbeat of the festival, spontaneous, joyful and deeply rooted in tradition.

Lunar Extravaganza at Sydney Town Hall

For a more structured performance experience, Lunar Extravaganza brings dance, music and song to the Centennial Hall stage at Sydney Town Hall.

Cultural groups from Chinese, Korean, Thai, Japanese and Vietnamese communities perform across two shows on Saturday 21 February. With no bookings required, it’s an easy way to experience the diversity and artistry that define Lunar New Year celebrations in Sydney.

For full program details, performance times and official updates, we recommend visiting the Sydney Lunar Festival website.

Beyond the headline events

Beyond the main festival moments, Lunar New Year spills across the city. From concerts at the Sydney Opera House to family workshops, dragon boat racing in Darling Harbour, craft activities and night markets, the celebration invites participation at every pace.

Food plays a central role throughout, with Chinatown, Darling Square and Darling Quarter offering countless ways to feast, from bustling banquets to street snacks and night markets.

For a list of all events happening in and around Sydney, we recommend visiting the Destination NSW website.

A calm place to return to

After the colour, crowds and celebration, Pyrmont offers a quieter counterpoint. Hotel Woolstore 1888 sits close to Darling Harbour and within easy reach of Haymarket, making it a comfortable base for dipping in and out of the festival.

Settle in with dinner or a late drink at Percy, then ease into the next day slowly before heading back out to welcome the new year.

Event date: From 28 February 2026 to 1 March 2026

SailGP Sydney 2026

SailGP makes its record seventh return to Sydney Harbour in February 2026, bringing some of the fastest and most technically advanced racing on water back to on…

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SailGP Sydney 2026

High-speed sailing returns to Sydney Harbour, with twilight racing set against a golden-hour skyline

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SailGP makes its record seventh return to Sydney Harbour in February 2026, bringing some of the fastest and most technically advanced racing on water back to one of the world’s most recognisable natural amphitheatres.

For the first time in SailGP history, Sydney will host twilight racing, with races running from late afternoon into early evening. The result is a rare combination of elite sport and spectacle, with foiling catamarans cutting across the harbour as the sun sets behind the city.

Fast, fierce and global

SailGP’s international fleet sees rival nations go head-to-head in identical high-performance boats, racing at speeds that demand precision, teamwork and split-second decision-making.

The global tour takes in some of the world’s most iconic waterfront locations, but Sydney Harbour remains one of the most dramatic stages on the calendar, where proximity to the shoreline brings fans close to the action.

Golden hour on the harbour

The twilight format transforms the viewing experience. As daylight fades, the harbour takes on a new atmosphere, shifting from bright summer afternoon to dusk-lit drama.

It’s this combination of speed, setting and timing that has cemented SailGP as one of Sydney’s most anticipated summer events, drawing spectators from across Australia and around the world.

Watching the action, your way

Whether you’re viewing from the shoreline, a ticketed on-water experience or a nearby vantage point, SailGP offers a flexible way to experience world-class racing without committing to a single grandstand seat.

The harbour becomes part of the event itself, with the city skyline, ferries and foreshore forming the backdrop to every race.

When the sails come down

After a day on the harbour, Pyrmont offers an easy place to wind down. Hotel Woolstore 1888 sits close to Darling Harbour and is well positioned for exploring the city after the racing wraps up.

Ease into the evening at Percy, or take a quiet walk back through the neighbourhood as the harbour settles after a high-energy weekend.

Event date: From 28 February 2026 to 1 March 2026

Bad Bunny – DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS Tour 2026

Bad Bunny’s DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS World Tour arrives in Sydney in late February 2026, marking one of the most anticipated live music events of the year. Across t…

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Bad Bunny – DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS Tour 2026

Bad Bunny brings his landmark world tour to Sydney for two nights of global hits, culture and spectacle

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Bad Bunny’s DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS World Tour arrives in Sydney in late February 2026, marking one of the most anticipated live music events of the year. Across two nights at ENGIE Stadium, the tour brings his latest album to life through a fully immersive live experience.

The announcement follows the release of DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS, a critically acclaimed album that celebrates the essence and culture of Bad Bunny’s Puerto Rican heritage. Known for pushing boundaries between music, fashion and performance, these shows promise scale, energy and unmistakable presence.

A global moment, live in Sydney

Fresh off his record-breaking Puerto Rico residency NO ME QUIERO IR DE AQUÍ, which sold more than 400,000 tickets, Bad Bunny’s world tour has been eagerly awaited by fans worldwide. The Sydney dates form part of his first-ever performances in Australia, bringing a tour that has already captured global attention to local audiences.

The set is expected to blend new material with fan favourites, delivered with the visual ambition and intensity that define his live shows.

Two nights at ENGIE Stadium

ENGIE Stadium provides the scale required for a tour of this magnitude, with space for large crowds and high-impact production. Located at Sydney Olympic Park, the venue is well serviced by public transport and major road links, making it accessible for concertgoers across the city.

With two Sydney dates announced, fans have the chance to experience the tour across a full weekend of live music and atmosphere.

Your Woolstore base

Hotel Woolstore 1888 offers a calmer place to land after a stadium-sized night out. Well connected to transport routes linking Pyrmont to Sydney Olympic Park, it’s an easy accommodation base for major events while offering heritage character and relaxed comfort away from the crowds.

Unwind with a late drink at Percy or start the next day slowly, before heading back out to explore the city.

Event date: From 3 March 2026 to 21 March 2026

AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026

The AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 brings elite international football to Sydney, welcoming the region’s top national teams for a high-energy tournament that celebr…

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AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026

World-class women’s football takes centre stage as Asia’s best teams compete across Sydney

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The AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 brings elite international football to Sydney, welcoming the region’s top national teams for a high-energy tournament that celebrates skill, pride and community. Across March, the city will host group matches, knockout rounds and the tournament final, creating weeks of atmosphere both on and off the pitch.

With matches played at CommBank Stadium and Accor Stadium, fans can expect fast-paced football, passionate crowds and a strong sense of occasion as the competition unfolds.

Football at an international standard

The AFC Women’s Asian Cup showcases the depth and quality of women’s football across Asia. Matches are played at intensity, with technical skill, tactical play and national pride on full display.

From early group-stage encounters to high-stakes knockout games, the tournament offers something for dedicated football fans and first-time spectators alike.

Matches across two Sydney stadiums

Sydney plays a central role in the tournament, hosting a wide range of fixtures across the competition period.

CommBank Stadium (Western Sydney Stadium):

– DPR Korea vs Uzbekistan – 3 March 2026
– China PR vs Bangladesh – 3 March 2026
– Bangladesh vs DPR Korea – 6 March 2026
– Uzbekistan vs China PR – 6 March 2026
– DPR Korea vs China PR – 9 March 2026
– India v Chinese Taipei – 10 March 2026
– Korea Republic vs China PR – 23 February 2026
– Quarter Final – 28 February 2026

Accor Stadium (Stadium Australia):

– Australia vs Korea Republic – 8 March 2026
– Quarter Final 3 – 14 March 2026
– Quarter Final 4 – 15 March 2026
– Semi Final 2 – 18 March 2026
– Final – 21 March 2026

A city-wide sporting moment

Beyond the matches themselves, the tournament brings a sense of energy to the city. Match days create a lively atmosphere across transport hubs, precincts and local venues, as fans gather to support their teams and experience international football at scale.

With multiple matches spread across the month, it’s easy to plan a single game night or build a longer stay around the tournament.

Between matchdays

After the final whistle, Pyrmont offers a quieter pace while remaining well connected to both stadium precincts. Hotel Woolstore 1888 provides a comfortable base for football fans attending matches across the city, without staying directly in the stadium zones.

Relax over a meal or drink at Percy, revisit the highlights, and take the next day at your own rhythm before heading back out for the next fixture.

Event date: From 6 March 2026 to 15 May 2026

Latin Nights by the Bay

Warm air, harbour views and music that makes it impossible to sit still. Every Friday night, Palm Grove at Darling Harbour transforms into an open-air dance flo…

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Event date: From 13 March 2026 to 16 March 2026

Jimmy Carr: Laughs Funny

If you enjoy comedy that is quick, clever and a little on the dark side, you are in for a brilliant night out. Jimmy Carr brings his brand new tour Laughs Funny…

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Event date: From 14 March 2026 to 15 March 2026

Linkin Park – From Zero World Tour 2026

Linkin Park makes its long-awaited return to Australia in March 2026 with the From Zero World Tour, marking the band’s first visit since 2013. Across two nights…

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Linkin Park – From Zero World Tour 2026

Linkin Park returns to Australia with two nights of high-octane live performance, celebrating a new era and a legacy of anthems

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Linkin Park makes its long-awaited return to Australia in March 2026 with the From Zero World Tour, marking the band’s first visit since 2013. Across two nights at Qudos Bank Arena, Australian fans will experience the band’s raw, emotionally charged live show as they celebrate the release of their new album, From Zero.

The tour follows a monumental global comeback, reintroducing Linkin Park as one of rock’s defining forces while honouring a catalogue that has shaped more than two decades of music.

A renewed sound, live on stage

From Zero signals a bold new chapter for the band, blending intensity, experimentation and renewed creative energy. New tracks like The Emptiness Machine and Heavy Is The Crown sit alongside the anthems that first connected audiences worldwide, creating a setlist designed for scale and release.

Heavy Is The Crown, released as the official League of Legends World Championship anthem, reaffirmed the band’s global reach, while The Emptiness Machine marked a chart-topping return, debuting at number one across major rock and alternative airplay charts.

Two nights at Qudos Bank Arena

Qudos Bank Arena provides the perfect setting for a show of this magnitude, offering the space and production capacity to match Linkin Park’s high-impact performances. With two Sydney dates announced, fans have the chance to experience the tour across a full weekend of live music.

The venue is easily accessed via public transport from Hotel Woolstore, making it a popular choice for major international tours and large-scale events.

After the lights come up

Following a night of intensity and sound, Pyrmont offers a quieter place to reset. Hotel Woolstore 1888 is well connected to Sydney Olympic Park while sitting slightly removed from the post-show crowds.

Unwind with a late drink at Percy, or take the next morning slowly with coffee and breakfast before heading back into the city. It’s an easy contrast after a night designed to hit hard.

Event date: From 2 April 2026 to 13 April 2026

Sydney Royal Easter Show 2026

The Sydney Royal Easter Show returns in April 2026, bringing together animals, agriculture, food, rides and showbags in one of the city’s most loved annual even…

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Sydney Royal Easter Show 2026

A classic Sydney tradition returns with twelve days of country charm, family fun and big-night entertainment

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The Sydney Royal Easter Show returns in April 2026, bringing together animals, agriculture, food, rides and showbags in one of the city’s most loved annual events. Welcoming close to 900,000 visitors each year, the Show offers a rare chance for city and country to meet, blending rural traditions with all-out carnival energy.

Running daily from 8:30am to 9:00pm, the Easter Show is designed to be explored at your own pace, whether you’re visiting for a few hours or making a full day of it.

Agriculture, animals and hands-on experiences

At its heart, the Easter Show celebrates Australian farming and rural life. Interactive animal experiences invite visitors of all ages to get up close with livestock, working dogs and horses, while competitions and displays showcase the skill and care behind Australian agriculture.

Highlights include dog agility demonstrations, livestock judging, and family-friendly activities like Outback Pony Rides, offering younger guests their first taste of country life.

Food worth lining up for

Food is a major drawcard, with fresh produce, regional specialties and nostalgic favourites around every corner. From crowd-pleasers like Chip on a Stick, Big Bush BBQ and chocolate-dipped strawberries to artisan sauces, fresh pasta, wine and gluten-free treats, the Show is as much about tasting as it is about watching.

It’s casual, indulgent and very Australian.

Gardens, creativity and craft

For something slower-paced, the Flower and Garden Pavilion offers a welcome pause. Expect colourful displays, expert talks and practical gardening advice, alongside workshops and demonstrations.

Nearby, the Sydney Royal Arts & Crafts Show highlights creativity across disciplines, featuring Australia’s largest arts and crafts competition and showcasing work from across the country.

Rides, competitions and nights that end with fireworks

Throughout the day, iconic competitions like woodchopping, sawing and showjumping draw crowds, alongside quirky favourites such as Pumpkin Bowling. Thrill-seekers can take on classic carnival rides, while younger visitors gravitate towards the Kids’ Carnival.

As evening falls, the Main Arena becomes the focus, with high-energy entertainment including the K9 Superwall, before each night ends with a fireworks display lighting up the sky.

Easter in Darling Harbour

For those staying closer to the city, Darling Harbour offers its own way to spend the Easter long weekend. Waterfront dining, family-friendly attractions, exhibitions and entertainment venues make it an easy place to dip in and out of across the holiday period.

Easter programming in Darling Harbour typically includes seasonal activities, special events and extended trading hours, with details announced closer to the date. For the latest updates, we recommend checking the official Darling Harbour website as plans are confirmed.

Your Easter base at Woolstore

Hotel Woolstore 1888 offers a relaxed place to stay during the Easter period, well positioned between Darling Harbour and Sydney’s major transport links. Whether you’re heading out to the Easter Show, exploring the city over the long weekend, or balancing family activities with quieter moments, it’s an easy base to return to.

After a full day out, settle in with dinner or a drink at Percy, then start the next day slowly before heading back out again.

Image credit: Destination NSW

Event date: From 7 April 2026 to 7 June 2026

ANASTASIA The Musical

From April 2026, the beloved story of ANASTASIA arrives on stage at the Sydney Lyric Theatre. Inspired by the animated classic and the legend that has captured …

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Event date: From 20 April 2026 to 16 May 2026

Sydney Comedy Festival 2026

The Sydney Comedy Festival returns in 2026 with its biggest program yet, transforming Sydney into a comedy playground for five full weeks. From late April throu…

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Sydney Comedy Festival 2026

Five weeks of laughs as Sydney becomes a city-wide comedy stage

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The Sydney Comedy Festival returns in 2026 with its biggest program yet, transforming Sydney into a comedy playground for five full weeks. From late April through to mid-May, the festival brings together international stars, Australian favourites and rising talent for nights filled with laughter across the city.

Spanning stand-up, sketch, satire, musical comedy and everything in between, the festival invites audiences to dip in for a single show or build a calendar of comedy experiences across multiple venues.

A line-up that keeps the city laughing

Each year, the Sydney Comedy Festival showcases a diverse mix of voices and styles, with performances taking place in theatres, clubs and unexpected spaces throughout Sydney. From headline acts to emerging comedians, the program is designed to surprise as much as it entertains.

With more shows, more artists and more opportunities to laugh, the 2026 festival offers something for seasoned comedy fans and first-timers alike.

The Gala: opening night energy

The festival’s opening highlight is the Sydney Comedy Festival Gala, widely regarded as the city’s night of nights for comedy lovers.

Featuring a fast-paced showcase of the festival’s funniest international guests, Australian legends and next-big-things, the Gala offers a snapshot of what’s to come, all in one high-energy evening. It’s the perfect way to kick off the festival and discover new favourites before the program unfolds across the city.

Comedy, night after night

Across the five-week run, venues buzz with late shows, early sessions and everything in between. Whether you’re chasing big laughs, clever satire or something a little unexpected, the festival’s scale makes it easy to find a show that fits your mood.

For full program details, performer announcements and ticket information, we recommend visiting the official Sydney Comedy Festival website as the line-up is released.

After the punchline

After a night of laughter, Pyrmont offers a quieter way to wind down. Hotel Woolstore 1888 sits within easy reach of Sydney’s major entertainment precincts, making it a comfortable base for hopping between shows.

Return for a late drink or supper at Percy, then take the next morning slowly before heading back out for another night of comedy.

Event date: From 22 May 2026 to 13 June 2025

Vivid Sydney 2026

Each winter, Sydney is reimagined through light, sound and conversation as Vivid Sydney returns for 23 nights of colour, creativity and connection. Running from…

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Vivid Sydney 2026

Sydney’s signature winter festival returns, transforming the city after dark

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Each winter, Sydney is reimagined through light, sound and conversation as Vivid Sydney returns for 23 nights of colour, creativity and connection. Running from late May through to mid-June, the festival brings together Light, Music, Ideas and Food, inviting locals and visitors to experience the city from a fresh perspective after sunset.

Produced by Destination NSW, Vivid Sydney has become one of the largest festivals of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, drawing millions of visitors to the city each year.

Light across the harbour and beyond

At the heart of Vivid Sydney is its spectacular light program. Landmark buildings and public spaces are transformed with large-scale projections and immersive installations, including the sails of the Sydney Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and precincts throughout the CBD and Darling Harbour.

Many installations are free to experience, encouraging evening walks, harbour-side wandering and spontaneous discovery as the city lights up night after night.

Music, ideas and conversation

Alongside the visual spectacle, Vivid Sydney’s music and ideas programs add depth to the festival experience. Live performances range from intimate shows to larger-scale events, while talks, panels and forums bring together creative thinkers, innovators and cultural leaders from Australia and around the world.

These sessions offer a chance to slow down, listen and engage, balancing the energy of the light displays with moments of reflection and inspiration.

Food experiences worth planning around

Vivid Sydney also places a strong focus on food, with pop-up dining, limited-edition menus and one-off culinary experiences appearing throughout the festival. Restaurants and venues across the city lean into the season, offering creative takes designed to complement evenings spent exploring the lights.

Planning your visit

Vivid Sydney unfolds across multiple precincts, making it easy to dip in for a short evening or build a longer stay around the program. Full event details, ticketed experiences and schedules are typically released closer to the festival dates.

For the most up-to-date information, we recommend visiting the official Vivid Sydney website as the program is announced.

After dark, at your own pace

After an evening spent exploring the lights, Pyrmont offers a quieter way to end the night. Hotel Woolstore 1888 sits close to Darling Harbour, making it easy to experience Vivid Sydney without staying in the busiest precincts.

Return for a late meal or nightcap at Percy, then take the morning slowly before heading back out to see the city in a different light.

Image credit: Destination NSW

Event date: 27 May 2026

State of Origin Game I

There’s nothing quite like State of Origin. One night, two teams, and a rivalry that stops the country. Game I of the 2026 series lands at Accor Stadium this Ma…

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State of Origin Game I

Rugby league’s fiercest rivalry returns to Sydney as State of Origin kicks off for 2026

Book Your Stay

There’s nothing quite like State of Origin. One night, two teams, and a rivalry that stops the country. Game I of the 2026 series lands at Accor Stadium this May, bringing Queensland and New South Wales face to face in the opening clash of the season.

Fast, physical and emotionally charged, Origin is more than a game. It’s atmosphere, tradition and tribal loyalty played out on one of the biggest stages in Australian sport.

Where legends are made

State of Origin Game I sets the tone for the entire series. Every tackle matters, momentum shifts quickly, and moments on this night often define what follows.

Accor Stadium provides the scale and intensity the occasion demands, with tens of thousands of fans creating an electric match-night environment from kickoff to final siren.

A midweek event worth planning around

Held on a Wednesday night, Game I is a natural centrepiece for a midweek Sydney stay. Whether you’re travelling in for the match or heading out with mates, the timing makes it easy to build an evening around the game.

Public transport services run frequently to and from Sydney Olympic Park on event nights, helping you get there and back without the stress of driving.

After the final siren

When the noise fades and the crowd disperses, Pyrmont offers a calmer way to round out the night. Hotel Woolstore 1888 is well connected to Olympic Park, making it a comfortable option for those attending the game without staying in the thick of the stadium precinct.

Settle in with a late drink at Percy, replay the big moments, and ease into the next morning at your own pace. It’s a good balance after a night that rarely holds back.

Event date: From 1 August 2026 to 20 September 2026

WAITRESS The Musical

From August 2026, Broadway’s hit musical WAITRESS arrives at the Sydney Lyric Theatre for its first ever season in Australia. Filled with heart, hope and a gene…

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WAITRESS The Musical

Sweet, sassy and baking its way to Sydney

Book Your Stay

From August 2026, Broadway’s hit musical WAITRESS arrives at the Sydney Lyric Theatre for its first ever season in Australia. Filled with heart, hope and a generous serve of humour, this award-winning musical brings Jenna’s story to life with a soaring pop-infused score by Grammy winner Sara Bareilles.

Just a 7 minute stroll from Hotel Woolstore 1888, it is the perfect night out in Pyrmont. Come for the music and the magic. Stay for the warmth of a story that reminds us all that second chances are worth taking.

A night of music, friendship and a little flour power

WAITRESS follows Jenna, a talented pie maker searching for a fresh start and the recipe for happiness. When a baking contest and a new romance give her a taste of possibility, she discovers the secret ingredient she has been missing might be closer than she ever imagined.

With direction by Tony Award recipient Diane Paulus and a book by Jessie Nelson, the show celebrates resilience, friendship and learning to rise again. Time Out calls it “made from the finest ingredients”. Entertainment Weekly calls it “a little slice of heaven”.

Make a beautiful evening of it

With the Sydney Lyric Theatre so close, your evening can unfold at ease. Begin with pre show dining at Percy, our Spanish inspired bar and kitchen where shared plates and natural wines set the tone. Then wander through Pyrmont’s leafy streets to the theatre, knowing your room will be just a few minutes away when the curtain falls.

If you are planning a theatre weekend in Sydney, explore our Travel Guide: Sydney Stays for Theatre Lovers for tips on dining, timing and everything you need to turn a show night into a story filled stay.

Stay near the stage. Sleep in style. Make it a night to remember.

Image credit: WAITRESS The Musical

Event date: From 12 December 2026 to 13 December 2026

Harry Styles – Together, Together Tour 2026

Harry Styles brings his Together, Together Tour to Sydney in December 2026, taking over Accor Stadium for two summer nights of large-scale live performance. Kno…

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Harry Styles – Together, Together Tour 2026

Harry Styles returns to Sydney with two stadium nights celebrating connection, joy and live performance

Book Your Stay

Harry Styles brings his Together, Together Tour to Sydney in December 2026, taking over Accor Stadium for two summer nights of large-scale live performance. Known for shows that feel as much like a celebration as a concert, Styles’ return is set to be one of the city’s most talked-about live events of the year.

Following a run of record-breaking global tours and stadium residencies, the Together, Together Tour continues his evolution as a performer who thrives on connection, turning vast venues into spaces that feel personal, inclusive and full of energy.

A live show built on connection

Harry Styles’ concerts are defined by atmosphere. Blending pop, rock and soul influences with bold visuals and an unmistakable sense of play, his live performances invite audiences into a shared moment rather than a one-way spectacle.

Expect a setlist that moves fluidly between euphoric crowd favourites and newer material, delivered with warmth, confidence and an ease that has become his signature. Whether you’re singing along from the stands or dancing on the floor, the experience is designed to feel communal, expressive and uplifting.

Two nights at Accor Stadium

Accor Stadium provides the scale and setting needed for a show of this magnitude, welcoming tens of thousands of fans across two December dates. With back-to-back nights announced, fans have flexibility to choose their preferred show or turn the concert into a full summer weekend event.

The stadium is well connected via public transport and major road links, making it easy to plan your night around the performance and arrive ready to enjoy every moment.

After the encore

Once the final song fades and the crowds begin to disperse, Pyrmont offers a quieter way to close out the night. Hotel Woolstore 1888 is well connected to Sydney Olympic Park while sitting slightly removed from the post-concert bustle.

Return for a late drink or relaxed supper at Percy, then ease into the next morning at your own pace, a calm counterpoint to a night designed to be joyful, loud and shared.

Lorde - Ultrasound World 2026

Lorde returns to Sydney with two nights of bold new music and fan favourites, live at Qudos Bank Arena

A new era, live on stage

Two nights at Qudos Bank Arena

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