Art and Culture Month
01
Sep
30
Sep
Unlock The Rocks

Art and Culture Month

Stumble into a month-long spell of art and spontaneity. This September, The Rocks becomes a living gallery, with art on every corner and every street a stage.
When
Tuesday,
01 Sep 2026
Wednesday,
30 Sep 2026

Art, music, comedy and live performance take over Sydney's oldest neighbourhood this September. Come Unlock The Rocks with us as Art & Culture Month turns the historic precinct into an open-air cultural celebration.

From live jazz and comedy nights to hands-on workshops, artist trails and weekend markets, The Rocks showcases the best of Sydney's creative talent across its laneways, historic buildings and harbourfront spaces. And the best part? So much of it is free.

Whether you're stopping by after work, planning a weekend adventure or hunting for a reason to rediscover The Rocks, there's something new to uncover around every corner.

What's On

The Art Trail

THU 10 SEP | 5.30 – 8.30PM

Join us for an exclusive Art Trail in The Rocks, winding through three unique galleries along George St. It's your chance to meet the creative minds behind the work: mingle with internationally acclaimed artist Shazia Imran, discover the whimsical designs of Max Mendez from Squidinki, and get to know the team from the unconventional Atty gallery.
Unfiltered

EVERY FRIDAY
THE ROCKS SQUARE

Across four weeks, Sydney's sharpest comedians, quick-witted improv performers and powerful poetry slam artists take to the stage for a night of laughter, storytelling and raw creative expression. The Rocks Markets trade on into the evening too, bringing an after-dark buzz and delicious eats from local favourites including Hooked & Harvest, Snake Bark and Fried Brothers. Gather your friends, grab a bite and settle in for a night where anything can happen.

4 Sep | 5.30 – 8.30pm
Unfiltered: Improv
Expect the unexpected. Improv Theatre Sydney (ITS), the home of improvised theatre and comedy in Sydney, is bringing together four of their favourite ensembles for one big takeover of The Rocks. Bring your friends and settle in to see your suggestions turned live into sketches, scenes, stories and songs.
Find out more
11 & 25 Sep | 5.30 – 8pm
Unfiltered: Comedy
For two nights, The Rocks Square showcases Sydney's best emerging and established comedians. Hosted by local favourite Jake Howie in a fast-paced Comedy Store format, five standout acts perform each week — returning with all-new material for round two. Expect big laughs and serious talent.
Find out more
18 Sep | 5.30 – 8pm
Unfiltered: Poetry
Australian Poetry returns to The Rocks in 2026, bringing the nation’s spoken word competition to town. Join the local heat, perform or cheer from the crowd, and enjoy an inspiring spring evening hosted by Adara Enthaler, featuring Dai Moret and 2023 champion Rob Waters.
Find out more

fbi.radio presents Unscripted

FRI 4, 11, 18 & 25 SEP | 6 – 8PM
THE ROCKS DISCOVERY MUSEUM

No scripts. No rehearsed answers. Just compelling stories, live music and real conversations. Hosted by fbi.radio and All The Best, Unscripted transforms The Rocks Discovery Museum every Friday night into a space for curious minds, creative voices and the ideas shaping Sydney today.
Workshops
SUN 6, 13 & 20 SEP | 10.30AM – 12PM
DAWES POINT PARK

Spend a Sunday getting hands-on beneath the Harbour Bridge. Across September, our workshop series invites you to slow down, create and connect. From painting and sketching to weaving, all set against one of the world's most beautiful backdrops. No experience needed, just bring your curiosity.
06
Sep
Painting Under the Bridge
Nurture your creativity amongst the vibrant scenery of The Rocks and Sydney Harbour with Focal Point Paintings. Learn composition, colour and brushwork in an inspiring setting.
View Event
13
Sep
Weaving Under the Bridge
Connect with culture through this unique weaving workshop and create your own unique piece to take home
View Event
20
Sep
Sketching Under the Bridge
Step outside the studio and into the fresh air with this special Sketch Club with Julian Ashton Art School.
View Event

Record Rummage

SUN 6, 13, 20 & 27 SEP | 10AM – 5PM
THE ROCKS SQUARE

Spin into Sundays at Record Rummage! Dig through crates and discover vinyl treasures at this pop-up, ​​​​meet knowledgeable stallholders, connect with fellow music enthusiasts, and take home a record that sparks nostalgia or new memories.

The Rocks Markets

FRIDAY, SATURDAY & SUNDAY | 10AM – 7PM

The Rocks Markets are a celebration of creativity, where talented local makers, chefs, and artisans converge in Sydney’s most historic precinct. Whether you're a foodie, an art lover, or just looking for a great day out, The Rocks Markets offer something special for everyone.

Fringe on The Rocks

2 SEP – 11 OCT

Get immersed and be amazed at Fringe on The Rocks this September. From intimate cabaret to boundary pushing theatre, this playground of curiosity has something for everyone. 

Unbound: Street Performance Festival

Art breaks free at Unbound, with immersive performances, roaming entertainment, and surprises around every corner.
SAT 26 – SUN 27 SEP | 11AM – 7PM

Close out Art & Culture Month at Unbound, a lively street takeover transforming The Rocks into a playground of performance, creativity and surprise. Encounter giant puppets, daring acrobatics, world-class buskers and interactive experiences around every corner. From disco-fuelled adventures and quirky pop-ups to roaming performers and market day festivities, expect the unexpected at Sydney's most playful street performance festival.

Find out more

Events not to be missed

Sunday 27 September | 2pm
Free Balter Beer Tasting
Beer lovers are invited to The Aussie for a complimentary tasting with the team from Balter Brewing.
 
Book now
26 - 27 September
NSW Wine Cellar Door
Discover the best of NSW’s wines at the Cellar Door experience this September at Dawes Point Park, located under the Sydney Harbour Bridge. 
Find out more
Every Thursday
Jazz Sessions
Unwind at Jazz Sessions in The Rocks every Thursday night throughout September. Enjoy free live jazz, delicious food options, and a vibrant atmosphere in The Rocks Square. Perfect for catching up with friends, meeting new ones, or adding a musical twist to your night out.
Find out more
Thursday 24 September | 7pm
Free Thursday Murder Club Mystery
Follow the clues, solve the puzzle and put detective skills to the test at The Aussie’s interactive Mystery Club.
Book now
Tuesday 2 September | 6pm and 7.15pm
Pints and Plaits at The Aussie
Give Dad's hair styling skills a glow-up with Pints & Plaits, a fun, hands-on workshop complete with pizza and pints.
Book now

Captivating Art: The Rocks Markets

Witness handcrafted textiles to intricate paintings and whimsical illustrations, where artists bring their individual passions and skills to life at The Rocks Markets. Expect to find a range of styles, from traditional techniques to contemporary expressions, all reflecting the artists' unique perspectives and experiences. 

Public Art at The Rocks

The Rocks is more than cobblestone streets and historic laneways — it’s an open-air gallery where art and storytelling coexist. This Art and Culture Month, embark on a self guided art tour and experience Sydney's creative spirit in unexpected ways.
 
What's on at the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia
Located on Sydney Harbour at Tallawoladah, the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia (MCA) is home to stories, art and culture. Learn more about their exhibitions and events during Art & Culture Month.
20
Jul
19
Oct
MCA Late: 2-for-1 Museum Admission Tickets
By
Experience art after hours with 2-for-1 Museum Admission tickets every Thursday night at MCA Late.
View Event
15
Aug
01
Mar
Connections: MCA x Tate
By
Discover contemporary artworks from the collections of MCA Australia and Tate, bringing together stories of culture, connection and identity.
View Event

Score a Double Pass to Fringe on The Rocks

Experience the excitement, creativity and entertainment of Fringe on The Rocks. Enter now for your chance to win one of four double passes and enjoy an unforgettable night out.
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