Event Suggestions for May 2026
- Gig Buddies Sydney
- 12 hours ago
- 11 min read
Below you will find some event suggestions for May 2026.
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.
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: On until from 24th May to 10th June 2026, 7:30pm and 9:30pm WHERE: Cockle Bay, 201 Sussex Street, Sydney, NSW 2000
The popular Vivid Sydney Drone Show returns for its longest season yet as Star-Bound: 22 shows across 12 nights at in its new home in Darling Harbour.
Glittering above the waters of Cockle Bay, this technological feat is an ode to universal connection as 1000 drones work as one to showcase the strange, beautiful ways that patterns repeat across plants, animals and our solar system.
Tickets | free entry
WHEN: Friday 22nd and Friday 29th May 2026, 5:00pm and 7:30pm
WHERE: Museum of Contemporary Art, 140 George Street, The Rocks NSW 2000
Step inside the MCA’s Foundation Hall and into the world of Sāmoan/Australian artist Angela Tiatia.
As her moving work lights up the outside of the building, the experience continues inside with an immersive after-dark party.
Tickets | from $38+BF
WHEN: May 2026, from 10:00am
WHERE: Level 1 - Customs House, 31 Alfred Street, NSW 2000
The City of Sydney is the only local government in Australia that maintains and exhibits a working scale model of its local government area. Unlike the static model of Sydney in the floor of Customs House, this dynamic model—located on Level 2 of Town Hall House—has been an essential urban planning tool since the mid-1980s.
Learn about the team of skilled model makers who meticulously maintain and update the City Model at Town Hall House.
Tickets | free entry
WHEN: From 22nd May to 13th June 2026
WHERE: Cockle Bay, 201 Sussex Street, Sydney, NSW 2000
Australia's most ambitious free outdoor laser spectacular arrives, spanning light, seas and sky. Over 23 nights, choreographed light transforms the Sydney Harbour sky unlike ever before with Laser Lightfall, the inaugural Vivid Sydney Laser Show and a free nightly tour-de-force over Cockle Bay.
Tickets | Free entry
Inner West
WHEN: from Monday 20th until 24th May 2026
WHERE: Enmore Theatre, 118-132 Enmore Road, Newtown NSW 2042
Some brilliant comedians will be coming to Sydney in April and May.
You could see:
Irish comedian Joanne McNally
Stephen K Amos
Tommy Little
Josh Thomas
Marty Sheargold
David O'Doherty
Tiffany Haddish
and More
Tickets | prices vary
WHEN: Friday 8th to Saturday 16th May 2026
WHERE: Petersham Town Hall, 107 Crystal Street, Petersham, NSW 2049
The Inner West Theatre Company proudly presents Alanis Morissette's Jagged Little Pill: The Musical, an exhilarating new musical inspired by the themes and raw emotions laid bare in Alanis Morissette's seminal album of the same name.
Based around the music of Alanis Morisette, Jagged Little Pill centers on the Healy family: Mary Jane, Steve, and their teenage children Frankie and Nick. The Healy’s appear to be the picture perfect family in their competitive Connecticut suburban neighborhood. Yet pictures can be deceiving.
Tickets | Tickets from $45+BF
Newtown Record Fair
WHEN: Sunday 3rd May 2026, 12:00pm
WHERE: The Bank Hotel, 324 King Street, Newtown, NSW 2042
DA great day for vinyl lovers and music lovers.
You are bound to find a gem (or two) in over 2 floors of vinyl! Dig LPs, 12’s, 7”s, cassettes & CDs of all genres: Rock. Pop. Funk. Dance. Hip Hop. Metal and more.
Taste Bank’s Autumn menu, full craft beer bar and live vinyl deejaying with 2SER’s Hober Mallow & friends.
Tickets | free entry
Eastern Suburbs
WHEN: across May 2026, times to be announced
WHERE: Ritz Cinemas. 45 St. Pauls Street, Randwick, NSW 2031
The Ritz will be showcasing some classic films throughout May, including:
Pulp Fiction
Paris is Burning
In Search of Anna
Bridget Jones's Diary
Happiness
Laputa: Castle In The Sky
Babe
Lawrence of Arabia
High Fidelity
There are lots more. Check out the website for session times.
Tickets | check website for more details
Galaxy Guardians - That 70s Band
WHEN: Saturday 23rd May 2026, 8:00pm
WHERE: Easts Bondi Junction, Level 1, 93-97 Spring Street, Bondi Junction, NSW 2022
The Galaxy Guardians return to Earth to unleash the ultimate 70s pop hits - eclectic, powerful and unforgettable!
Seating will be available on a first come, first served basis
Tickets | free but you need to register
City of Ryde
WHEN: Sundays in May 2026, 8:30pm
WHERE: North Ryde RSL Youth Club, 27 Magdala Road, North Ryde, NSW 2113
Sydney Volleyball Club x Sydney Thunder Volleyball is proud to present our Sunday Mixed Volleyball League (MVL)
MVL will run every Sunday 8:30pm - 10:45pm at North Ryde RSL Youth Club from April 26th - July 5th. MVL will have prizes for the winners with UNTIMED GAMES, (best out of 3) and now all games have no duty.
Tickets | contact the comp for cost details
WHEN: Saturday 16th May 2026, from 8:00pm
WHERE: Ryde-Eastwood Leagues Club, 117 Ryedale Road, West Ryde, NSW 2114
David Cazalet showcases the songs of Elvis Presley, capturing the voice, persona and charm of ‘The King In Concert’.
The star-studded band gives David all the ingredients to make this 2 hour concert a very special music event in Sydney as they journey from Elvis’ early rock n roll period, through the movies era and on to the Vegas years.
Tickets | from $40+BF
North Sydney & Northern Beaches
WHEN: Wednesday 6th May 2026, 8:30pm
WHERE: The Concourse, 409 Victoria Avenue, Chatswood, NSW 2067
Sh!t-faced Shakespeare is the hilarious blend of an entirely serious Shakespeare play with an entirely sh!t-faced actor. What could possibly go right?
With a genuinely inebriated cast member each night, no two shows are ever the same in this raucous, riotous rampage through one of Shakespeare’s greatest tragedies, the story of a privileged whiny lad who goes a bit bonkers and does some stabbings, Hamlet.
Tickets | from $54.90+BF
WHEN: Fridays in May 2026, from 6:00pm
WHERE: St Leonards Tavern, 655 Pacific Highway, St Leonards, NSW 2065
Kick off the weekend with live acoustic music at The Tav, every Friday night from 6pm. Grab a drink, pull up a seat and settle in for a session.
Tickets | Free entry
Locals night at the Las Palmas Manly
WHEN: Wednesday nights in 2026, from 4:00pm
WHERE: Manly Pavilion, West Esplanade, Manly NSW 2095
Vibrant Mexican garden bar & taqueria in West Esplanade, Manly, for a few margs and tacos amongst the palms.
They do locals night on Wednesdays, with $5 tacos
Tickets | free entry best to book a table
WHEN: Thursday 7th April 2026, from 8:00pm
WHERE: Dee Why RSL, 932 Pittwater Road, Dee Why, NSW 2099
The six-time ARIA Award winner returns with his highly anticipated second album, DJANDJAY, and a brand-new show that promises to be nothing short of electrifying.
Known for his high-energy performances, infectious charisma and powerful messages, he has quickly become one of Australia’s most dynamic and celebrated performers.
Tickets | From $61.40+BF
South Sydney
WHEN: from 27th to 31st May 2026
WHERE: Various venues in Cronulla, NSW 2230
A great festival in Cronulla, 5 days with over 200 free performances.
There will also be bars, food, market stalls, a film festival, record fair and more.
Tickets | free entry and some cost events, check the website for more details
WHEN: Friday 29th May 2026, from 3:00pm
WHERE: Hurstville Plaza, 292 Forest Road, Hurstville NSW 2220
The Hurstville Night Market gives you a chance to explore a vibrant line-up of international street food stalls – from Asian favourites to global comfort eats – all cooked fresh for you.
Along with food, you will find a range of artisan stalls and homemade goods.
Tickets | free entry
Hornsby Shire and Castle Hill
WHEN: Thursdays 19th May 2026, from 6:00pm
WHERE: 189 Peats Ferry Road, Hornsby, NSW 2077
For Pokemon fans out there.
These events are designed to be a competitor’s first experience of formal tournament competition before moving up to League Cups, Regional Championships, and beyond.
Players must have a Pokémon Trainer Club account with a Player ID attached, and they must have opted in to the Play! Pokémon program in order to earn Championship Points and prizes.
Tickets | $18 entry fee
WHEN: Sunday 3rd May 2026, 9:00am to 2:00pm
WHERE: Castle Hills Showgrounds, Showground Road, Castle Hill, NSW 2154
A celebration of dogs
Explore a great range of stalls offering dog treats, accessories, toys, services and more and enjoy a variety of delicious food and refreshments available throughout the day.
You can also watch fun and friendly competitions for dogs of all shapes and sizes.
Tickets | free entry
WHEN: Sunday 31st May 2026, 11:30am WHERE: Hills Basketball Stadium, Caterson Drive, Castle Hill NSW 2154
The NBL1 is a semi-professional basketball league in Australia run by the National Basketball League. The league consists of five conference: NBL1 South, NBL1 North, NBL1 Central, NBL1 West and NBL1 East, with each consisting of both men’s and women’s competitions.
This game will see the womens team play at 11:30am followed by the mens team at 1:30pm.
Tickets | $10+BF
Western Sydney
WHEN: Opens from 14th May 2026, times vary
WHERE: Paddington Pavillion, Olympic Boulevard, Sydney Olympic Park, NSW 2127
Celebrates all things Harry Potter™ by bringing to life some of your favourite moments, characters, locations, and beasts from the film series, as well as the extended Harry Potter universe.
Get up close to authentic props and costumes, practice your Quidditch™ skills, pot a Mandrake, and more in this unforgettable experience.
Tickets | from $30+BF
WHEN: Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th May 2026
WHERE: NSW Rail Museum, 10 Barbour Road, Thirlmere NSW 2572
Experience the power and spectacle of steam at the Thirlmere Festival of Steam.
Climb aboard authentic steam train rides, explore vintage machinery, and enjoy live entertainment, interactive displays and fun at NSW’s biggest celebration of rail heritage - all in Sydney’s south-west
Tickets | from $27+BF
WHEN: Friday 1st May 2026, from 7:30pm
WHERE: Wests League Club Campbelltown, 10 Old Leumeah Road, Leumeah, NSW 2560
This event will flip bingo on its head. Forget everything you think you know about bingo — this isn’t your grandma’s hall.
Heavyweights Rob Shehadie, Tahir & DJ Nick Skitz join forces to bring you a night full of laughs, fun and great music. There will be crazy bingo rounds, non-stop comedy, dancing, party games and more.
Tickets | $30+BF
WHEN: Saturday 2nd May 2026, 5:30pm
WHERE: Commbank Stadium, 11-13 O'Connell Street, Parramatta NSW 2150
The Eels take on the Warriors at CommBank Stadium (Western Sydney Stadium) in Parramatta. It’s a compelling matchup with plenty of edge: Parramatta’s home-ground intensity against a Warriors side known for turning games into arm-wrestles, with momentum swings and big moments often deciding it late.
Tickets | From $35+BF
WHEN: Saturday 9th May 2026, 5:00pm - 9:00pm
WHERE: Paul Keating Park, The Mall, Bankstown NSW 2200
Eat Drink Nights is coming to Bankstown with a vibrant night food market bringing together incredible street food, entertainment and a lively community atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Tickets | free entry
WHEN: Saturday 9th May 2026, from 7:30pm
WHERE: Penrith Paceway, 127-141 Station Street, Penrith, NSW 2750
Expect a massive market full of surprises, with an incredible range of stalls featuring food, fresh produce, crafts, hobbies, new and pre-loved items, plants, and so much more.
Tickets | free entry
Central Coast
WHEN: Saturday 23rd May 2026, from 10:30am
WHERE: The Entertainment Grounds, 4 Racecourse Road, West Gosford, NSW 2250
An action-packed event that brings your favourite fandoms to life.
Whether you're a die-hard Marvel, Star Wars, Disney, Anime, or Sci-Fi fan—or you're a Lego master, cosplay enthusiast, or just looking for a fun day out—Central Coast Comicon has something for everyone.
Tickets | from $29.70+BF
WHEN: Saturday 2nd May 2026, from 4:00pm - 9:00pm
WHERE: Woodies, 207 The Entrance Road, Erina, NSW 2250
Fancy going out for a dance but not keen on sacrificing the next day? They've got you covered!
Bed By 10 is a chance for ravers over 30 to relive the peak of the 80s, 90s & early 2000s clubbing scene! Expect crazy visuals, confetti showers, Co2 cannons and more as our resident DJ spins all the club classics
Tickets | from $45+BF
WHEN: Sunday 3rd May 2026, from 12:00pm
WHERE: Gosford Strip Precinct, Mann Street, Gosford, NSW 2250
Mann Street between Donnison Street (The Archibald) and Erina Street (Hotel Gosford) will transform into a buzzing, pedestrian-first playground with al fresco dining spilling onto the street, local bands and DJs setting the soundtrack,
businesses throwing open their doors with surprises, kids’ activities, and plenty of space to explore, connect and celebrate.
Tickets | free entry but you need to register
WHEN: Friday 1st May 2026, 6:00pm
WHERE: Everglades Country Club 9/13 Dunban Road, Woy Woy NSW 2256
80s and 90s bangers, step-by-step painting, singalong moments and a room full of people who know every word. You leave with a finished canvas and a sore voice.
Tickets | from $60+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 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:
- 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: 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.
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.
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: Inner West Coordinator / Funding and Sponsorship Coordinator: 02 9419 6951
Bec: Project Officer, Sydney & South Sydney: 0411 252 228
Aylin: Western Sydney Coordinator: 0466 389 961 (on maternity leave until 2027)
Lara: Western Sydney & Greater Western Sydney Coordinator: 0478 045 121
Charlotte: Northern Beaches Coordinator (inc. Willoughby, Mosman, North Sydney and Lane Cove): 0403 184 404
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