North Sydney Festival

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Main stage schedule

Join us for a fantastic day of live music and entertainment on the main stage:

  • 11am – Event begins, Welcome to Country
    The festival kicks off with a Welcome to Country ceremony.

  • 11.30am - 12.15pm – Sarah McLeod
    Presented by Small Fry Rock (@smallfryrock), Sarah McLeod will bring her energetic performance to the stage. Sarah is a founding member of the 3-time ARIA award-winning band The Superjesus and has a successful career spanning over two decades, with solo albums and stage performances under her belt. She is known for her professional and vibrant shows.

  • 12.30pm - 1.15pm – Ben Lee
    Also presented by Small Fry Rock (@smallfryrock), Ben Lee will perform his signature romantic anthems and indie pop classics. On the eve of announcing his new solo album This One’s for the Old Headz, Ben brings a fun, multi-ARIA-winning energy to the stage.

  • 2pm - 2.30pm – The Toothpicks
    Catch The Toothpicks performing on stage, presented by Mary’s.

  • 2.45pm - 3.15pm – Jet City Sports Club
    Jet City Sports Club takes the stage for an energetic set, presented by Mary’s.

  • 3.30pm - 4pm – Sesame Girl
    Enjoy a performance by Sesame Girl, presented by Mary’s.

  • 4.20pm - 4.50pm – STUMPS
    End the day with an exciting set from STUMPS, presented by Mary’s.
     

View the full program

Art and workshops

Art installations 

Studio A artist Thom Roberts

Experience the vibrant art installation by Studio A artist Thom Roberts, covering the steps of Brett Whiteley Place. Inspired by his rides on the new Sydney Metro, Thom’s artwork reflects his unique vision of trains as people and people as trains. This installation offers an imaginative and immersive art experience for all ages.


Workshops at Denison Street - 11am to 5pm, drop in anytime throughout the day

  • Upcycled fabric and paper flowers with Sydney Textiles and Primrose Paper Arts

Join Textiles Sydney and Primrose Paper Arts to transform fabric and paper off-cuts into wearable flowers. This hands-on workshop is a great way to create beautiful, eco-friendly art pieces from recycled materials. Textiles Sydney and Primrose Paper Arts are part of the vibrant arts community at Primrose Park Arts & Crafts Centre in Cremorne.

  • Brush turkey sculptures with Olivia Arnold

Discover the world of brush turkeys with artist Olivia Arnold and local high school students. Learn about these fascinating birds and create personalized paper feathers to add to a flock of brush turkeys displayed across North Sydney. Olivia Arnold is a current Artist in Residence at Primrose Park Artists’ Studios in Cremorne.

  • Koori Kinnections bush food tour

Explore local bush food through an interactive display with Koori Kinnections where you can smell, touch, and taste native ingredients. Facilitators will discuss traditional bush foods and provide samples to taste.

Koori Kinnections will also be giving away native Warrigal Greens seeds – known as Australia's version of spinach, popularised by MasterChef – for your home garden.

Join a Yarn session titled "Keep the Fire Burning," featuring an "Ask Me Anything" Q&A session facilitated by Jessica Sinnott. Jess is a Yuin and Wailwan woman, Founder/Managing Director of Koori Kinnections, and a knowledgeable Aboriginal Cultural Educator.

Roving entertainment

Roving Entertainment at Brett Whiteley Place and surrounds

  • Toybox Jesters - 11am, 12pm and 1pm 

Watch out for these long-legged roving jesters, as they make their way on stilts through the crowd.

  • Sydney Bollywood - 1.20pm

Sydney Bollywood bring their high-energy, fun and colourful performance to North Sydney, presenting a melange of Bollywood dance favourites, alongside new South Asian fusion styles.

  • Shaun Parker & Company present Hover - 1.40pm

Multi-award-winning Australian dance company, Shaun Parker & Company head to the streets with this expertly crafted, fun performance on wheels. Set to a soundtrack of pop favourites, five exceptionally talented dancers blend breakdance, tutting, popping, and acrobatics, while hover gliding and zooming with ease.

  • Up, Up and Away 2pm, 3pm and 4pm

The old romantic world of airship travel is captured in this gloriously eccentric roving act, set to a waltzing soundtrack. Grab a photo with these daring and dashing aeronauts out for a ground training session, before they head up, up and away to the clouds.

  • Lucky African Dance - 4pm

Be sure to catch this dynamic troupe of drummers and dancers, bringing their feel-good beats and feats to the streets of North Sydney for the first time. Founded in 2012 by Ghanaian Dancer & Choreographer Lucky Lartey, Lucky African Dance brings a unique fusion of artistry and culture, delivering unmissable one of kind transformational highenergy rhythm and dance shows.

Market stalls

Discover a vibrant marketplace at the North Sydney Festival, featuring talented artisans who blend creativity with sustainability. Support these passionate makers and find something truly special.

  • Robyn Morris Atelier (@robynmorris_atelier) - a celebration of the earthy and handmade wild-foraged flower posies, whimsical fairy doors, raw hemp crochet bags and baskets, and unique wild-foraged basketry items. 

  • Clay Nerd (@neridapatton) - small-batch functional ceramics inspired by the Australian landscape. Each piece is lovingly handcrafted by Nerida in her home studio on Cammeraygal Country. 

  • Upcycled Glassware (@upcycled.glassware) - the motivation behind Upcycled Glassware is to reduce landfill waste by transforming discarded bottles into functional art pieces like vases, sprouters, and tumblers. Each piece is crafted in our Botany studio using small-batch methods, aligning with our mission to promote sustainable living and mindful consumption. 

  • Land & by Sea Studio (@landandbyseastudio) - founded by Trish Garcia, is a multidisciplinary art studio inspired by the landscapes of Sydney and the Philippines. Trish’s vibrant, playful work captures the essence of nature, travel, and summer adventures. All original art, including hand-crafted frames and illustrations, is created by hand and printed in small, on-demand runs.

  • Productive by You (@productivebyyou) - designs and packs modern DIY Embroidery Kits and handcraft crochet plushies, keyrings, and hats. Their kits feature patterns that appeal to the younger generation, helping to revive a fading skill. 

  • Hilda (@hildaonline) - luxurious batik fashion, accessories, and homewares made from batik prints and materials sourced from Ghana. The collection includes handmade bags, baskets, and a vegan skincare range featuring shea butter and soap. 

  • Designed by Kate (@designedbykatesydney) - Kate's background in theatre design taught her to craft whimsical creations from found materials, each with its own story. Kate repurposes rescued materials like upcycled leather, vintage prints, train moquette, and old paintings into unique, wearable bags that are both functional and artistic. 

  • Banish (@banish.au) - recycled plastic range, including pens, carabiners, mini pots etc. and will have information about their experiences and a BRAD corporate recycle box.

For kids and families

Get ready for a day of creativity and excitement at the North Sydney Festival!

The festival has something special for every member of the family, whether it is checking out the music on the main stage or at the Aqualand Kids' Creative Zone, this is the perfect place for kids and teens to unleash their imaginations.
 

Aqualand Kids' Creative Zone

Hosted by the talented Siobhan Coombs, owner of Cockatoo Comics and co-organizer of the Brazen comic convention, the Aqualand Kids' Creative Zone will feature four engaging drop-in workshops throughout the day. Each session lasts one hour, allowing your little creators to come and go as they please.

  • 11am - Weird and Wonderful Animals: Let your child's imagination run wild as they craft unique animals using cut-out paper parts. They’ll then create a fun fact file comic, detailing their creature’s habitat, diet, and special abilities.
  • 12pm - Good Chef/Bad Chef: Is your child a dreamer or a daredevil in the kitchen? In this workshop, they’ll design their dream (or nightmare!) dessert and star in a comic where they teach readers how to make their fantastical creation.
  • 1.15pm - Special guest workshop with best selling author Kristin Darell: Join Kristin Darell as she guides you through the exciting world of zoos in this storytelling workshop. Curious? Come monkey around and create your own story! 
  • 3pm - Scrolling Action/Adventure: Young adventurers can turn a three-panel comic into an ancient scroll, complete with a mini-adventure story. They'll assemble their scroll using tape, a skewer, and ribbon.
  • 4pm - Zine Making: Aimed at teens and older kids, this workshop introduces the art of zine creation. Participants will learn to fold zines in two unique ways and receive story prompts to create a fanzine, autobiographical comic, or even a spooky horror story.

A cosy corner run by Stanton Library will be available all day.

Greenwood Plaza events

Come along and take part in all the fun at Greenwood Plaza during the North Sydney Festival!

  • 11am - 2pm  Face Painting & Hair Chalking
    Get into the festival spirit with colourful face painting and hair chalking – perfect for kids and adults alike.
  • 11am - 2pm Milkshake Making & Decorating Workshops
    Craft your own custom milkshake at our fun, interactive workshops – a treat for your creativity and taste buds.
  • 11am - 2pm Finger Bun Decorating with Bakers Delight
    Unleash your sweet side by decorating fingerbuns with an assortment of toppings.
  • 11am - 2pm Money Grab Machine
    Step into the Money Grab Machine for a chance to win Greenwood Plaza gift vouchers. How much can you grab?
  • 11am - 2pm Live DJ
    Enjoy great music from a live DJ, keeping the energy up throughout the day.

Small Fry Rock on the main Stage

Small Fry Rock (@samllfryrock) presents a morning of live music that both kids and parents can enjoy!

These family-friendly acts will get kids excited and parents grooving to music they know and love. Catch Sarah McLeod at 11.30am, followed by Ben Lee at 12.30pm, for an unforgettable musical experience.
 

Art Installation by Studio A artist Thom Roberts

Expose your kids to the world of art through the unique perspective of Studio A artist Thom Roberts. Thom, who identifies as both an artist and a Countrylink Express train, creates work inspired by his love for trains. His captivating art has been showcased in prestigious exhibitions like The National at Carriageworks and the Science Museum in Melbourne. This installation is a great way for kids to connect with art in a fun and imaginative way.
 

Street Performers

The streets of North Sydney will come alive with a variety of talented street performers, ready to captivate audiences of all ages. Watch out as Toybox Jesters and Shaun Parker & Co (@shaunparkerco) pop up in unexpected places, adding a sprinkle of magic to your festival experience.

Whether your family is getting creative at the Aqualand Kids' Creative Zone, eating the scrumptious offerings of North Sydney eateries or enjoying the lively street performances, the North Sydney Festival is packed with fun-filled activities that everyone will love. Don’t miss out on making unforgettable memories with your kids!

Local food venues and offers

The North Sydney Festival isn’t just about music and art - it's also your chance to dive into the vibrant local food scene! Our hospitality partners are ready to make your festival day unforgettable, with exclusive offers, extended hours, and unique in-store events.

Featured local venues and special offers:

  • Marlies Eatery (@marlieseatery)
    Trading 11am to 5pm (normally closed)
    Serving a full menu, including event specials like signature brisket and pulled pork sandwiches. Enjoy a special selection of craft beers, wines from the US, and signature Margaritas from Marlies Depot and Smokehouse.

  • Glorietta (@glorietta_xx)
    Extended hours: 12pm to 10pm
    Grab lunch on the go with takeaway porchetta ciabattas and pizzetas on the patio. Regular dinner service starts from 5pm.

  • Greenhouse Asian Salads (@greenhouseasiansalads)
    Trading 11am to 5pm (normally closed)
    Full menu available, plus a meat skewer and noodle special for the Festival.

  • Antica Dining (@anticadining)
    Bar open from 3pm till late (after party vibes!)
    Enjoy $2 oysters from 3pm until sold out.
    Aperitivo Afternoon from 3pm to 6pm: $6 beers, $10 Spritz, $12 cocktails and wines, and complimentary bar snacks.

  • Charlie and Franks Cafe (@charlieandfranks)
    Extended hours: 6am to 5pm
    Festival specials include $10 Margaritas (the drink!) and $15 tacos (box of three). Dining rooms open from 5pm.

  • Green Moustache (@greenmustacherooftop)
    Regular hours: 11.30am to 10pm
    Festival deals: $10 pints of Coopers Pale Ale and Sydney Beer Co. Lager, $15 Roku gin spritz, $20 with salt and pepper squid canapés, and $3 oysters all day.
    Live music kicks off at 5.30pm.

  • The Treehouse Hotel (@thetreehousenorthsydney)
    Special opening time: 4pm (normally opens at 5pm)
    Enjoy $7 flatbreads, $7 schooners of select beer, and $7 glasses of wine and bubbles.
    Live music throughout the day.

  • The Terrace Hotel (@terracehotel)
    Special opening time: 10am
    Enjoy $7 house beers, wines, and spirits throughout the day.
    Traditional music session from 6pm to 9pm.
    Our kitchen will be open from 12pm to 8pm with $14.95 lunch specials available.
    Kids are welcome in the bistro area.

  • Poetica Bar and Grill (@poetica.sydney)
    Special opening time 11am – until late
    Special Festival offer: Enjoy $2 fresh shucked Merimbula oysters, along with small snack plates, cocktails starting at $13, $7 beers, and $12 wine - available all day.

  • The Rag & Famish (@ragandfamish)
    Extended kitchen hours: 11.30am - 9.30pm
    Special Festival offer: $5 kids meals plus a refreshing kids soft drink - all day long!

  • RAFI North Sydney (@rafisydney)
    Open from 12pm - until late
    DJ from 12pm-5pm
    Special Festival offer: takeaway menu featuring fresh drinks and delicious food options.

Greenwood Plaza

  • Blue 36 Café Restaurant (@blue36cafe_northsydney)
    Special opening time: 7am - 1.45pm
  • Brooklyn Bridge Deli (@brooklynbridge_deli)
    Special opening time: 8am - 1pm
  • Bun Me (@bunme_viet)
    Special opening time: 10.15am - 4pm
  • Greenwood Chinese Restaurant
    Special opening time: 11am - 10pm
  • UMMA Korean Kitchen (@ummakitchen)
    Special opening time: 9am - 4pm
  • Mirichi
    Special opening time: 10am - 4pm
  • Sharetea (@shareteaaustralia)
    Special opening time: 10.50am - 5pm
  • Oporto (@orportoaustralia)
    Special opening time: 10am - 5pm

Vic X Eateries

Day time:

  • Marrickville Pork Roll
  • Only Coffee Project
  • Sushi Hub
  • Top Impression Bakery OP
  • North Sandwiches
  • Machi Machi

Day and night:

  • Mary’s
  • Torotoro Ramen + Tempura
  • Koji Grill & Dumplings
  • Doodee King
  • Dopa Donburi and Dessert
  • McDonald’s

Community partners

  • Northside Produce Market
    Kick off your day at the Northside Produce Market from 8am to 12pm at Ted Mack Civic Park before heading to the festival. Stock up on fresh local produce and enjoy the market's lively atmosphere.

  • Mary MacKillop Museum
    Free entry from 9am to 3pm. Explore fascinating exhibits, and stop by the cafe to recharge before or after the festival fun.

Vic X Official After Party

Stay After Dark: Vic X Official After Party

Don’t let the fun stop when the sun goes down! The party continues with the Official After Party at Vic X. Stay after dark to enjoy signature drinks and late-night bites from the trendiest new venues in the area. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your day at the North Sydney Festival.

“The Official After Party”, taking place in the vibrant Laneway area outside Mary’s from 5pm to 9pm.

  • DJ
  • Pop up Wine Bar by P&V Wines
  • Family friendly entertainment including a Roving Musician and UV face painting
  • Promotional vouchers

Vic X Eateries

  • Mary’s
  • Torotoro Ramen + Tempura
  • Koji Grill & Dumplings
  • Doodee King
  • Dopa Donburi and Dessert
  • McDonald’s

How to get here

We highly recommend using public transport to make your journey to the North Sydney Festival as easy and sustainable as possible. With the arrival of the new Sydney Metro Victoria Cross Station, getting to the heart of the action has never been more convenient!

By Metro:
Hop on the Sydney Metro and alight at Victoria Cross Station for just a short walk from the festival’s main areas. The new metro service offers fast and frequent connections, making it the perfect way to arrive at the festival stress-free.

By Train:
North Sydney Station is also serviced by regular train lines, providing easy access from across Sydney. Once you arrive, follow the signs and join in the festivities just minutes from the station.

By Bus:
Numerous bus routes stop near the festival area, including along Pacific Highway and Miller Street. Plan your trip ahead of time using the Transport NSW trip planner.

By Car:
Parking is available at Wilson Parking, Greenwood Plaza, with convenient access from Pacific Highway and Miller Street. Enjoy the Greenwood Plaza festival programming before making your way to the Main Festival Area by following the walk bridge to Elizabeth Plaza.

We can't wait to see you at North Sydney Festival!

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