Things to do in winter in Sydney

From May to August is a great time of the year to holiday in Sydney. Relax and unwind with a short break that’s packed with world-class events, big-city shopping and some of Australia’s best dining experiences.  As well as providing the backdrop to the annual winter festival of lights, music and ideas, Vivid Sydney, the city welcomes the world-premiere of shows and musicals at venues as diverse as the Sydney Opera House, The Star, The Wharf Theatre, CarriageWorks and Belvoir St Theatre.

For contemporary art lovers, the Biennale of Sydney is held every second year at venues including Art Gallery of NSW, Museum of Contemporary Art Australia and Cockatoo Island. The 19th Biennale of Sydney will be held from 21 March to 9 June 2014. Other much-loved arts events include the Sydney Writers’ Festival in May, the Sydney Film Festival in June and the Archibald, Wynne and Sulman prizes on show at the Art Gallery of NSW.

Mild weather is perfect for plenty of outdoor events including the Darling Harbour Jazz and Blues Festival, the Manly Food and Wine Festival, the Winter Festival, Bondi Winter Magic and the Aroma Festival in The Rocks.  Sports action includes the Bledisloe Cup Festival, the Sun-Herald City2Surf and State of Origin matches at venues across the city.    

Winter is also a good time of the year to enjoy creative and seasonal dining across the city. Dine sumptuously at three-hatted Sydney stars - est., Marque Restaurant, Momofuku Seiobo, Quay, Rockpool on George and Sepia or make your way to a waterfront restaurant in Walsh Bay, Pyrmont, Balmoral, Manly, Bondi Beach and The Rocks. Check out the latest foodie trends at a hip cafe, cool bakery, hot wine bar, funky pub or sleek noodle bar.