Event Suggestions for January 2026
- Gig Buddies Sydney
- 3 hours ago
- 11 min read
Below you will find some event suggestions for January 2026.Â
There are some great events happening around Sydney and the Central Coast next month.
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Please remember that the events listed below (except for our Gig Buddies social events) are not facilitated Gig Buddies events.Â
This means Gig Buddies staff will not be attending these events or organising outings to these events.
These are just suggestions for things you and your buddy can do together.
Please chat with your Gig Buddy about these events if you are interested in attending.
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We have listed events for the following areas (you can click on a specific area):
Click on the images or the Event Name to check out more information and to register if needed.
Sydney CBD
WHEN: from Wednesday 3rd December 2025 WHERE:Â Playfair Street, The Rocks, NSW 2000
Discover Laneway Cinema, a unique free outdoor movie experience nestled on the corner of Playfair St and George St in The Rocks. Surrounded by historic cobblestone lanes and heritage buildings, this pop-up cinema offers a magical night out under the stars.
Relax into a cosy bean bag or comfy deck chair and enjoy a diverse line-up of films on a the outdoor screen. Grab a drink or some delicious popcorn from the pop-up cart and immerse yourself in the charm of Sydney’s most atmospheric cinema setting.
Tickets | free entry but you can register for tickets to secure seats
WHEN: Open 7 days per week, from 10:00am
WHERE:Â 413 George Street, Sydney, NSW 2000
Discover a brilliant collection of perspective-changing rooms, enthralling installations, and spellbinding images. Our exhibits will teach you that nothing is ever quite as it seems, especially in the Museum of Illusions. Get ready to be mesmerized!
Tickets | Check website for prices
WHEN: Open until February 1st 2026, from 10:00am
WHERE:Â Australian Museum, 1 William Street, Sydney NSW 2010
RELICS: A New World Rises is an immersive art experience that's equal parts nostalgic and thought-provoking - what Co-Creator Jackson Harvey describes as "the love child between an antique shop, The LEGO® Movie, and Blade Runner."
Don’t miss this extraordinary exhibition where forgotten objects and LEGO® brick creations tell tales of a possible future.
Tickets | Tickets from $25
WHEN: Saturday 10th January 2026, 6:00pm
WHERE:Â Wharf 9, King Street Wharf, Darling Harbour, NSW 2000
Featuring world-class entertainment and offering 360’ views from an expansive open-air rooftop, Glass Island is an iconic Sydney venue.
Entertainment includes Nasser T, Jimmy Jam, Troy T, Pepe, A-Shuffle and Mel-C.
Tickets | From $45+BF
Inner West
WHEN: Tuesday 13th January 2026, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
WHERE:Â The Connection, 30 Shoreline Drive, Rhodes, NSW 2138
Presented by Koori Kinnections’ Cultural Educator Trent Kelly, this session explores the night sky – not merely as a canopy of stars, but as a living map, a record of time, seasons, and culture.
Tickets | Free entry but you need to register
WHEN: From 7th to 18th January 2026
WHERE:Â Carriageworks, 245 Wilson Street, Eveleigh, NSW 2015
Winner of the Total Theatre Award at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, BURGERZ has been a sell-out sensation across the world since 2018.
After someone threw a burger at them and shouted a transphobic slur, performance artist Travis Alabanza became obsessed with burgers. How they are made, how they feel, and smell. How they travel through the air. How the mayonnaise feels on your skin. This hilarious and heartbreaking show explores how trans people survive and reclaims an act of violence with a side of serious bite.
Tickets | Check website for ticket prices
WHEN: Every fortnight until Thursday 29th January 2026, 7:00pm
WHERE:Â The Duke of Enmore, 148 Enmore Road, Enmore, NSW 2042
Karaoke with a twist.
Each member has been plucked from Sydney’s local bands—thrown together and unleashed on the city’s nightlife years ago. Since then, the lineup’s evolved, with countless players stepping in, shaping what’s become one of the most unhinged and beloved nights around.
Tickets | Free entry
Eastern Suburbs
WHEN: On until 28th February 2026
WHERE:Â Entertainment Quarter, 122 Lang Road, Moore Park, NSW 2021
Join Print & Pixel for a golden-hour Car Photography Workshop at Historic Nights, held on the carpark rooftop of the Entertainment Quarter
This is where vintage engines, glowing headlights, and city sunsets collide.
As the sun dips below the skyline, capture the magic of classic and custom cars bathed in evening light. This workshop blends the thrill of a car meet with hands-on photography training — perfect for enthusiasts looking to sharpen their skills in composition, lighting, and low-light shooting.
Tickets | From $22.49
WHEN: 11th and 16th January 2026
WHERE:Â Sydney Cricket Ground, 4 Driver Ave, Moore Park NSW 2021
Summer is here and the cricket has begun!
Sydney's will be fighting for glory. Expect raw passion, fierce rival banter, and edge of your seat finishes. Expect big energy, expect big moments… Expect the Unforgettable.
Tickets | from $35+BF
City of Ryde
WHEN: Every week from Wednesday 14th January 2026, 7:00pm
WHERE:Â North Ryde Golf Club, Twin Road, North Ryde NSW 2113
Trivia Night at the Golf Club every Wednesday at 7pm. Bring your answer to the week’s homework question and earn an extra point – you won’t want to miss out!
Tickets | Free to join but best to book
WHEN: Wednesday nights in 2026, from 6:00pm
WHERE:Â Good Games Top Ryde City, Level 3 - op Ryde City Shopping Centre Blaxland Road &, Devlin Street, Ryde, NSW 2112
Every Thursday night, a special evening dedicated to board games, camaraderie, and loads of fun.
Variety of Games: Dive into timeless classics or explore the latest board game releases. From strategy to trivia, and adventure to party games, we’ve got something for everyone.
Friendly Environment: All skill levels are welcome in our community. New to a game? Our friendly staff and fellow gamers are here to guide and share.
Meet new Friends: Connect with board game enthusiasts, make new friends, and enjoy a few hours of delightful competition.
Tickets | $5
North Sydney & Northern Beaches
WHEN: Various dates in January 2026
WHERE:Â Noirth Sydney Oval, 2 Fig Tree Lane, North Sydney NSW 2060
There are some great films on offer at the Sunset Cinema at North Sydney Oval in January!
The films are:
Zootopia 2
Wicked: For Good Mama Mia!
Eternity Ella McCay SpongeBob The Movie Anaconda Rental Family
Tickets | from $24+BF
WHEN: Thursdays in January 2026, from 7:00pm
WHERE:Â The Diddy, 243 Longueville Road, Longueville, NSW 2066
Test your knowledge while grabbing dinner at your local.
Trivia starts from 7pm. Best to book a table.
Tickets | Free Entry
WHEN: Sunday 18th January 2026, 11:00am - 4:00pm
WHERE:Â Hotel Steyne, 75 The Corso, Manly NSW 2095
A new batch of sellers but the same incredible selection of high quality vinyl!
There will be vinyl raffle prizes for those who come for the 11am start - there were 5 prizes in March, 5 more in June, 5 in September and there'll be even more this time round.
Soul, blues, punk, reggae, classic rock and more with great records from all over the planet
Tickets |free entry
WHEN: Saturday 24th January 2025, from 2:00pm
WHERE:Â South Narrabeen S.L.S.C, 1198 Pittwater Road, Narrabeen, NSW 2101
An afternoon of live performances, live music and workshops.
You can bring a picnic blanket and purchase food to enjoy while you soak in the entertainment.
Tickets | Free entry
South Sydney
WHEN: On until Sunday 25th January 2026,
WHERE:Â Biddy Giles Park, 4 Kiln Road, Kirrawee, NSW 2232
The Hazelhurst Art on Paper Award has become a significant national award dedicated to celebrating and elevating the significance of work on paper.
With a total prize pool of $26,000, the Award recognises outstanding artworks created with, on, or about paper.
Artforms can include, but are not limited to painting, drawing, sculpture, installation, photography, mixed media and video.
Tickets | check website for details
WHEN: Friday 30th January 2026, from 4:00pm
WHERE:Â Kirrawee Library, 6 Kiln Road, Kirrawee, NSW 2232
Join us for a free event for ages 14+ to swap clothes, learn sustainable fashion tips, and connect with local experts in recycling and upcycling.
What to Bring:
Up to 5 clean items of clothing, accessories, or footwear (no undergarments)
Your creativity and enthusiasm!
Tickets | free to join
Hornsby Shire and Castle Hill
WHEN: Saturday 10th January 2026, from 10:00am
WHERE:Â Castle Hill Showground, Showground Road, Castle Hill, NSW 2154
Now in its 7th year at Castle Hill Showground, the Kite Flying Festival is back — bigger, brighter, and more exciting than ever. This vibrant event celebrates creativity, community, and the simple joy of flying a kite.
Join thousands of kite lovers, and visitors from all over Sydney for a spectacular day filled with colour, music, and fun!
Tickets | Free entry but you need to register
WHEN: Thursdays in January 2026, 8:30am - 2:00pm
WHERE:Â Florence Street, Hornsby, NSW 2077
Hornsby Organic Market, bringing all the goods: vegan croissants, flaky danishes, fresh pastries and incredible cakes – Made with zero dairy or eggs, all plant-based and of course baked fresh.
Grab something delicious for brekky or a yummy treat to share with friends! But be quick – they sell out fast!!
Tickets | free entry
WHEN: Fridays 16th January 2026, from 7:00am WHERE:Â Castle Hill Bowling Club, 79 Castle Street, Castle Hill, NSW 2154
Feel Good Friday, at Julie T's January Dance Party, at Castle Hill Bowling Club.
Dress in your SUMMER HOLIDAY inspired attire. Some suggestions include overseas traveller, beach wear, Aussie summer wear, anything you would wear on a summer holiday!
Remember dressing up is optional
Tickets | $20 cash on door
Western Sydney
WHEN: Saturday 3rd January to Sunday 11th January 2026
WHERE:Â Ken Rosewall Arena, Corner Olympic Boulevard and Shirley Strickland Avenue, Sydney Olympic Park, NSW 2127
The United Cup returns to Sydney in 2026!
Bringing 18 countries together in a mixed-teams tennis competition, teams will compete in a round-robin format before advancing to finals. Each team comprises up to three male and three female players, led by a captain.
Tickets | $40 +BF
WHEN: Friday 16th January 2026, 3:00pm
WHERE: The Leo Kelly Black town Arts Centre, 78 Flushcombe Road, Blacktown, NSW 2148.
Taking over the Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre for two days, artists Sione Monu and Salote Tawale create an installation inspired by the aesthetics of the garage.
For Pasifika Sydneysiders, the garage is much more than a place to park your car - it’s an informal gathering space for generations of families and community to come together and celebrate milestones or to catch up over songs, stories, and laughter.  Â
There will be music, performance and karaoke from some of Western Sydney’s greatest musicians and artists.
There will be hands-on making activities led by Sione Monu and Powerhouse Parramatta’s WE’VE program as well as a special family photo booth where you are invited to dress in your White Sunday best and receive your very own portrait. Although distinctly Pasifika flavoured, this garage party is for everyone. Come along and pull up a milk crate. You’ll be in good company.  
Tickets | Free entry
Cirque Alice
WHEN: Thursday 1st to Sunday 4th January 2026, various
WHERE:Â Coliseum Theatre, 33 Railway Street, Rooty Hill NSW 2766
Step into magical 'Wonderland' as Cirque Alice reimagines Lewis Carroll's classic adventures with breathtaking twists and astonishing, gravity-defying feats.
Starring the greatest acrobatic performers from around the globe, this magnificent spectacle features stunning performances by mesmerising aerialists, mind-bending contortionists, exquisite puppetry, dancers and special guest musical and comedic artists.
Tickets | from $89+BF
The Hype Boys at Penrith Panthers
WHEN: Monday 26th January 2026, 2:00pm
WHERE:Â Penrith Panthers, 83 Mulgoa Road, Penrith, NSW 2750
Hype Boys bringing the party to the Backyard at Panthers Penrith. expect big energy, feel-good beats and a crowd that knows how to celebrate.
Tickets | Free entry
WHEN: Monday 5th January 2026, 7:00pm
WHERE:Â Campbelltown Sports Stadium, 12 Old Leumeah Road, Leumeah, NSW 2566
Kick back and enjoy summer football at Campbelltown Sports Stadium as Macarthur Bulls FC welcome Auckland FC! Grab some snacks and cheer on the Bulls in a fun-filled match day experience.
Tickets | from $20+BF
WHEN: Saturday 31st January 2026
WHERE:Â Riverside Theatres, Corner Market &, 353 Church Street, Parramatta, NSW 2150
A This unforgettable show highlights their early hits as well as songs from their groundbreaking album Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club, featuring a stunning collaboration with the Sgt. Pepper String Quartet.
Fresh off their triumphant return from the UK, The Beatnix performed at the prestigious International Beatleweek festival in Liverpool, including unforgettable shows at the world-famous Cavern Club. Their performances were met with rave reviews, cementing their reputation as one of the finest Beatles tribute acts in the world.
Tickets | from $69+BF
Central Coast
WHEN: Saturday 24th January 2026, from 6:00pm
WHERE:Â Six String Brewing, 90 The Entrance Road, Erina, NSW 2250
Daft Chunk! Australia’s Chunkiest Daft Punk Tribute act right here on the Central Coast!
Daft Chunk will be hitting the stage after The GABS & Triple J’s Hottest 100
Tickets | TBC
WHEN: On until 11th January 2026
WHERE:Â Gosford Regional Gallery, 36 Webb Street, East Gosford, NSW 2250
The Archibald Prize for portrait painting is Australia’s most celebrated and democratic - sometimes controversial - art award. The trustees of the Art Gallery of New South Wales judge the entries and the winner receives $100,000.
Following their display at the Art Gallery in Sydney, the Archibald Prize 2025 finalist works will tour to venues across NSW offering audiences outside Sydney the opportunity to see these notable works.
Tickets | $10+BF
WHEN: Tuesday 13th and Wednesday 14th January 2026
WHERE:Â The Art House, 19-21 Margaret Street, Wyong, NSW 2259
The Quizzical Mr Jeff is a versatile circus showman and magician renowned for his unique blend of object manipulation, whimsical illusions, and engaging humour.
Globally renowned for redefining what’s possible with circus hoops, Mr Jeff brings 11 hoops to life in stunning mandalas and living geometry, mesmerising audiences with skill and precision in these never seen before circus tricks. Blending slapstick comedy, circus skill and physical control, Mr Jeff climbs inside a 6-foot giant balloon in a surreal and side-splitting act that never fails to steal the show!
Tickets | from $12+BF
WHEN: Friday 23rd to Sunday 25th January 2026
WHERE:Â Central Coast Leagues Club, 1 Dane Drive, Gosford, NSW 2250
A weekend of Northern Soul, Motown and Modern Soul music.
Soul on the Central Coast invites you to the Australia Day Weekender on 23, 24, 25 January 2026. Join local and national DJ's playing vinyl Northern Soul, Modern Soul and Motown for a weekend of music and dancing.
Tickets | from $22.49+BF
Music Events & Festivals
You can find a current list of upcoming music gigs around Sydney here:
You can find a current list of upcoming Music Festivals here: https://musicfestivalsaustralia.com/tour-dates
Musicals & Theatre 2025/2026
You can find a list of upcoming Theatre shows here:
You can find a list of upcoming musicals here:
Gig Buddies Events
Check out our upcoming Gig Buddies socials here:
More ideas
Other websites to check for more ideas:
-Â Secret Sydney - a list of things to do around Sydney
- Whats On Sydney - events around City of Sydney area
- Eventbrite - events around Sydney & Central Coast
- Companion Card - here's a list of place that accept the companion card
- Facebook Events - lots of events that you can search for in your area
Don't forget we have more things to do on our Gig Buddies Gig Guide and you can suggest ideas. Click the image below:
(or the link is here:Â https://www.gigbuddiessydney.org/gig-guide-1)
Please remember to reach out to the Gig Buddies team if you have any questions or need any support.Â
We hope to see you at a social soon.
Shared third party information in this post is offered as suggestions for your monthly catch up with your Gig Buddy. Suggesting these events holds no economic benefit to ACL Disability Services or Gig Buddies.
Unless stated as a Gig Buddies facilitated social, the events suggested are main stream events that are happening within the community. No Gig Buddies staff will be present.Â
All information is correct at time of posting.
Get in touch:
Matthew: Central Coast coordinator (inc. Hornsby Shire and Ku-ring-gai): 0402 708 814
Carol: CEO: 02 9419 6951
Chelsea: NDIS coordinator: 0412 145 819
Tony: Funding and sponsorship coordinator: 02 9419 6951
Bec: Project officer, Sydney: 0411 252 228
Aylin: Western Sydney coordinator: 0466 389 961
Lara: Greater Western Sydney coordinator: 0478 045 121
Charlotte: Northern Beaches coordinator (inc. Willoughby, Mosman, North Sydney and Lane Cove): 0403 184 404
Would you like more information about Gig Buddies Sydney? You’re only a click away. Connect with us via the links below.