Darling Harbour is turning up the heat this summer with a line up of over 19 events (10 of those completely free) as part of its annual Summerific celebration from 1 – 31 January 2025. Enjoy long summer nights with free outdoor movies under the stars, or immerse in Sydney Festival’s rich program of cultural experiences, including art installations, trapeze shows and a conversation with filmmaker James Cameron. For family-friendly fun, hit the water with pedal boats at Cockle Bay or take in the summer fireworks lighting up the harbour every Saturday night.
FREE FILMS UNDER THE SUMMER SKY
The much-loved outdoor cinema experience, Warner Movies at Darling Quarter, returns this summer (9-26 January) offering free alfresco movie nights on the Village Green. Movie fans can enjoy blockbusters and timeless classics under the summer sky, paired with delicious eats from Darling Quarter. Visitors can also grab a refreshing drink from the Archie Rose pop-up bar to complete their evening. With its relaxed atmosphere and vibrant surroundings, this event is a highlight of the season. The movie schedule is set to be announced soon.
SYDNEY FESTIVAL IN DARLING HARBOUR
The Sydney Festival comes to town in the new year (4 – 25 January), celebrating creativity, culture and community. The festival will feature a program of performances, art installations and interactive experiences, offering something for everyone. Visitors can enjoy both free and ticketed events ranging from contemporary dance and theatre to live music and large-scale visual art. Darling Harbour’s Palm Grove will host trapeze shows and workshops.
Cinephiles and deep-sea aficionados alike can join filmmaker and ocean explorer, James Cameron, in conversation about his record-making dive to the deepest point on Earth. Learn how his love for the ocean fueled his iconic films, such as Titanic, and how his documentaries unlock the mysteries of the deep.
PEDAL AWAY AT COCKLE BAY
Take to the water this summer with Darling Harbour’s pedal boats at Cockle Bay, running until 28 January. Perfect for families, couples or friends, the pedal boats offer a fun and unique way to explore the harbour while enjoying the stunning waterfront views. Open daily and available for hire throughout the season, this activity allows visitors to relax on the water, soak up the sunshine and make the most of Sydney’s iconic harbour setting.
SUMMERTIME FIREWORKS
Experience the magic of Darling Harbour’s spectacular fireworks displays lighting up the night sky every Saturday evening at 9pm. This New Year’s Eve, there will be a special fireworks show at 9pm and midnight as part of the celebrations. The dazzling shows are the perfect way to end a summer day, with bursts of colour reflecting over Cockle Bay. Watch the Sydney sky light up from one of Darling Harbour’s waterfront dining venues, the promenade, or even from the water on a pedal boat.
ALFRESCO DINING IN THE SUNSHINE
With over 150 dining venues, Darling Harbour has a range of summer feasting options. Enjoy the harbour’s best view at Vogue Cafe, fresh seafood at Nick’s Seafood, refreshing gelato at Gelatissimo, or Asian street food flavours at Darling Square. Visitors can make the most of long, warm days with alfresco dining options to suit every taste.
Whether visiting with family and friends or flying solo, Darling Harbour’s summer line up has something for everyone. For the full program of summertime events and activities, visit the Darling Harbour website.
