_edited.png)
With January almost done and dusted, it's the perfect time to start planning the rest of your year! Whether you're eager to dive into local events, make time for some fun, or simply want to fill your calendar with exciting happenings, we've got you covered. Here are some of the major events happening this year that you won't want to miss - so grab your calendar and start saving the dates!
Lunar New Year
Experience the Lunar New Year in Sydney with lively celebrations such as street parades, dragon dances, fireworks, and lantern displays. Visit Chinatown for the Sydney Lunar Festival by City of Sydney or Circular Quay to indulge in traditional cuisine, performances, and cultural activities celebrating the Year of the Snake.
If traveling to the city isn't ideal, you can join the Lunar New Year celebrations organised by St George River Council in Hurstville and enjoy the nearby festivities.
January 29 – February 9, 2025
Shire Farmers Market - Sutherland
The Shire Farmers Market is a vibrant community hub offering quality food from local farmers. As Sutherland Shire’s only 'Foodies' market, it features diverse, high-quality Australian produce and artisanal goods. Shopping here not only supports local growers but also means you’re getting the freshest seasonal foods while backing sustainable farming.
With its friendly vendors and lively atmosphere, the Shire Farmers Market has become a community favorite. It’s the perfect place to connect with locals, support small businesses, and enjoy a bustling Saturday morning - all in line with what SLAM is all about.
February 1, 2025 8-1PM Every Saturday
Mardi Gras Parade - Sydney CBD
Sydney's iconic Mardi Gras Parade is all about celebrating the LGBTQ community in the most colorful, joyful way possible. Oxford Street comes alive with dazzling costumes, vibrant music, and an electric atmosphere that’s all about love and equality. This year’s parade is set to be bigger and better than ever, with incredible performances, epic after-parties, and a packed lineup of events leading up to the big day. Get ready for a celebration like no other!
March 1, 2025
International Women's Day
International Women's Day is a global celebration of the progress made in the women's rights movement, and a reminder of the importance of collaboration in achieving gender equality. Let's take this time to reflect on the remarkable achievements of women and the strides we continue to make.
Save the date for a special International Women's Day event! Join SLAM for a luncheon at Cronulla RSL, where we will celebrate the amazing women in our community.
March 8, 2025
ANZAC Day
A day of remembrance for those who served and died in wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping missions. Commemorate this important national day by attending the Dawn Service, visiting the ANZAC Memorial or the ANZAC Day march in the city or local services in the Sutherland Shire, honoring Australia's veterans and their sacrifices. In Cronulla, a commemorative service will be held in Cronulla Park, from 5:30am. Those wishing to walk in the ANZAC Day March, form up outside Cronulla RSL.
April 25, 2025
Cronulla Easter Show - Cronulla
The Shire's answer to the Sydney Royal Easter Show, the Cronulla Easter Show is a family-friendly event filled with carnival rides, games, animal exhibits, food stalls, and live performances. It's the perfect way to enjoy the Easter weekend in a coastal setting.
April 18–21, 2025
Sutherland Shire Relay for Life - Sutherland
Support a worthy cause by joining the Sutherland Shire Relay for Life. This annual community event raises funds for cancer research, where participants walk or run in teams in a relay format. It's a meaningful day of solidarity, music, and entertainment in honor of cancer survivors and those lost to the disease.
May 3–4, 2025
Vivid Sydney - Sydney CBD
Sydney's famous light, music, and ideas festival, Vivid Sydney, returns to transform the city with stunning light installations and projections. The Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and surrounding buildings will be illuminated, offering breathtaking art and performances. Don’t miss out on the talks, workshops, and concerts that make this event one of the city's most beloved.
May 23 – June 14, 2025
City2Surf - Sydney to Bondi
Join the fun in one of Sydney’s most popular running events, City2Surf, which starts in Hyde Park and winds its way through the city to Bondi Beach. Whether you run, walk, or cheer from the sidelines, it’s a great way to be part of Sydney's active community.
August 10, 2025
Sculpture by the Sea 2025 - Bondi to Tamarama
Sydney's famous coastal art exhibition, Sculpture by the Sea, returns for its 27th year. Explore spectacular outdoor sculptures along the scenic coastal path from Bondi to Tamarama and wind up your day with a meal at one of Bondi’s beachside eateries.
October 17 – November 3, 2025
Gymea Village Festival - Gymea
One of the Shire’s largest community events, the Gymea Village Festivals offers over 200 stalls selling food, crafts, fashion, and more. With rides, live entertainment, and performances throughout the day, it's a fantastic way to experience the Shire’s vibrant community spirit.
October 26, 2025
Melbourne Cup Day
The Melbourne Cup, "the race that stops a nation," is more than just a horse race; it's a vibrant celebration of Australian culture and a thrilling spectacle that captivates the country. From the fashion that graces the Birdcage to the nail-biting finish on the track, the Cup offers a unique blend of sport, glamour, and social connection. It's a day where friends and families gather, offices come to a standstill, and conversations revolve around the horses, the odds, and the excitement of the race.
Experience the race firsthand at the Royal Randwick Racecourse, or join us as we find a fantastic venue to celebrate the Cup together.
November 4, 2025
Carols by the Beach at Cronulla
Wrap up the year with a magical evening of Christmas carols at Cronulla Beach. This beloved event brings families and friends together for a festive sing-along by the sea, accompanied by live bands and local choirs. Spread out on the sand with a picnic and enjoy the holiday spirit.
December 20, 2025
New Year’s Eve on Sydney Harbour
End the year with a bang by watching Sydney’s world-famous New Year’s Eve fireworks over the Harbour. Whether you grab a spot early at Circular Quay or book a harbor cruise for the best view, Sydney’s NYE celebration is truly unforgettable.
December 31, 2025
If you’re loving these SLAM recommendations, you’ll definitely want to check out Short Weekend Getaways: Your Perfect Escape Close to Home and Love is in the Air: Spoil Your Darling This Valentine’s Day
