March is packed with exciting activities to enjoy in Sydney! From art installations to live music and environmental action, there’s something for everyone to explore. Here’s a round-up of 15 events happening around the city this month.

Climb over a giant shell art bridge

Marvel at the colourful shell patterns of Ngabu while also taking in the view of Sydney Harbour Bridge. This interactive installation was designed by Aunty Lola Ryan who hails from a lineage of esteemed Dharawal shell artists who call La Perouse home.

Throughout March, until Sunday 27 April

Ngabu is a giant interactive installation mounted on top of the overhead bridge on Hickson Rd.
Ngabu is a giant interactive installation mounted on top of the overhead bridge on Hickson Rd.

Step into the neon world of Chinatown

Captivating neon light installations take over Haymarket for 3 weeks during Neon Playground. Explore neon lights, vibrant art installations, music, food and more.

Saturday 15 March to Sunday 6 April

The streets of Haymarket light up for Neon Playground.
The streets of Haymarket light up for Neon Playground.

Show us your slice of Australian Life

Our national photography competition is now open. Whether you’re a professional photographer or someone with a keen eye, everyone is welcome to take part. Young photographers aged 5 to 12 are invited to enter Little Sydney Lives.

Entries close 2 April

'Penalty Shootout' by Henry Paul, winner of the 2024 Australian Life photography competition.
‘Penalty Shootout’ by Henry Paul, winner of the 2024 Australian Life photography competition.

Hop to it: help us track local frogs

Scientists locate and identify frogs by listening to their calls. Join frog expert Dr Arthur White to survey frog habitats in Sydney ParkKimberley Grove and Lewis Hoad reserves at dusk. Your observations can contribute to important ecological research.

3, 12 and 19 March

Survey frog habitats and listen out for their calls.
Survey frog habitats and listen out for their calls.

Get inspired during Climate Action Week

Hear from leaders and changemakers at more than 230 community-led events across the city during Climate Action Week. You’ll find events on all aspects of climate action, from building resilient cities to conserving biodiversity.

Monday 10 to Sunday 16 March

Find over 230 events across the city during Climate Action Week
Find over 230 events across the city during Climate Action Week

Eat, shop and play at Sydney Streets

Celebrate the neighbourhoods of GlebeRedfern and Pyrmont as we take over the streets with live music, roving performers, kids activities and alfresco dining.

Saturday 8, 15 and 29 March

We're stopping traffic for a day to celebrate at Sydney Streets.
We’re stopping traffic for a day to celebrate at Sydney Streets.

Take your pick from a loaded line-up of live music

Great Southern Nights brings some of the finest pop, indie and dance acts to Sydney’s favourite music venues this month. From SAFIA at City Recital Hall to Bootleg Rascal at the Landsdowne Hotel, there’s lots to explore in the full program of free and ticketed gigs.

Friday 21 March to Sunday 6 April

Find an unforgettable gig this month with Great Southern Nights.
Find an unforgettable gig this month with Great Southern Nights.

See the works of British artist and activist Derek Jarman

He was one of the most influential figures in 20th century Britain and a pioneer in queer cinema. Now UNSW Galleries presents the first exhibition of Derek Jarman’s work in Australia, with rarely seen paintings and films by the artist, alongside photography and archival materials. Meanwhile, a retrospective of Jarman’s films are screening free at the Art Gallery of NSW cinema.

Throughout March

See 'Derek Jarman: Delphinium Days' at UNSW Galleries.
See ‘Derek Jarman: Delphinium Days’ at UNSW Galleries.

Grow your organic gardening skills

Join composting coach Compostable Kate at Sydney City Farm for a free composting and worm farming workshop. Reduce your food waste and make great soil conditioner for super healthy plants.

Saturday 8 March

Learn compost and worm farm basics at Sydney City Farm.
Learn compost and worm farm basics at Sydney City Farm.

Sing with Barayagal choir

Join Barayagal choir for a special performance. and raise your voice in a 40-minute workshop where you’ll learn to sing a song together as a group. Barayagal is a community choir open to everyone to learn about First Nations cultures, stories and songs.

Thursday 20 March

Sing with Barayagal Choir
Sing with Barayagal Choir

Hear about Australia’s first female mayor

On International Women’s Day, City historian Laila Ellmoos uncovers the life and work of Lilian Fowler, who was elected NSW’s first female alderman for Newtown Council in 1928 before becoming Australia’s first female mayor 10 years later.

Wednesday 5 March

Uncover the life of Lilian Fowler through photographs, newspaper clippings and artefacts.
Uncover the life of Lilian Fowler through photographs, newspaper clippings and artefacts.

Share the pleasure of poetry with Oormila Prahlad

Hear from acclaimed artist and Pushcart Prize-nominated poet Oormila Prahlad. She’ll read personal pieces and join fellow poet Danny Gardner in conversation as they delve into Oormila’s creative journey.

Tuesday 11 March

Oormila Prahlad shares her words on art and life at Glebe Library.
Oormila Prahlad shares her words on art and life at Glebe Library.

Reflect on Earth Hour with Powerhouse

Hear from the museum’s knowledgeable volunteers as they trace the impact of the industrial revolution and innovations leading us to a greener future, while highlighting objects from the Powerhouse collection.

Thursday 13 and 27 March

Join Powerhouse volunteers at our Earth Hour talks.
Join Powerhouse volunteers at our Earth Hour talks.