With a net downhill route, the course offers a fast yet challenging run, featuring 1,040m of elevation gain and 1,321m of descent. Expect late-winter temperatures ranging from 15°C to 24°C, though past years have seen highs of up to 32°C.
Ballot entries have now closed, but if you’re racing or supporting, secure your stay at Hotel Woolstore 1888 Sydney—the perfect base to explore Sydney before and after the event. Book now!
Available sittings between 2pm – 7:30pm
Sydney comes alive during the Chinese Lunar New Year, offering one of the most vibrant and colourful celebrations outside of Asia. From dazzling lantern displays to lively dragon and lion dances, the city hosts a range of festivities to honour this centuries-old tradition. The renowned Sydney Lunar Festival, held in the heart of the city, features cultural performances, markets brimming with traditional delicacies, and stunning art installations.
Welcome the Year of the Dragon in style with an unforgettable Lunar New Year celebration at Darling Harbour. From thrilling performances to cultural festivities, the precinct promises an experience that captures the vibrancy and joy of this cherished tradition. Here’s a glimpse into what you can expect:
Feel the excitement as skilled jetpack performers soar over Cockle Bay in a dazzling display of light, sound, and skill. Don’t miss the grand finale on February 1st and 8th, with a breathtaking fireworks display accompanying the 9 PM show. With three shows each night, it’s the perfect evening spectacle to kick off your Lunar New Year celebrations.
Dates: February 1 & 8, 2025
Times: 7:00 PM, 7:45 PM, and 9:00 PM
Location: Cockle Bay Wharf
Watch the adrenaline-pumping dragon boat races as teams compete in a vibrant display of teamwork and tradition. Taking place from February 7th to 9th, this event is a must-see for its high-energy atmosphere and cultural significance.
Dates: Friday, February 7th, 2025
Times: Competition 2:00 PM – 6: 30 PM
Location: Palm Grove, Cockle Bay Wharf, and Darling Harbour Marina
Celebrate with a Latin twist at the Fiesta del Sol in Tumbalong Park. Enjoy live music from top-tier artists, delicious Latin American cuisine, and a vibrant party atmosphere.
Event Dates:
Immerse yourself in cross-cultural festivities with live music, a Thai food village, and creative workshops, celebrating artistic expression and culinary delights, making it a highlight of the Lunar New Year. Sections of this event are ticketed.
Event Dates: February 7, 2025, 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM, February 8, 2025, 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Location: Tumbalong Park
Experience the magic of traditional lion dances, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of drums and cymbals. From roving performances to special showcases at the Chinese Garden of Friendship, the lion dances bring energy and cultural charm to the celebrations.
Key Dates and Locations:
Find serenity amidst the festivities at the Chinese Garden of Friendship. Enjoy zodiac readings, tea ceremonies, and the exclusive Twilight Garden Party for a tranquil yet festive experience.
With so many events and activities, Lunar New Year at Darling Harbour promises a memorable experience for families, friends, and solo adventurers alike. Mark your calendar, bring your festive spirit, and get ready to celebrate the Year of the Dragon in spectacular fashion.
Stay at Hotel Woolstore 1888 Sydney for the perfect base to immerse yourself in the celebrations. Located just a short stroll from the Chinese Quarter and key festival sites, our boutique hotel blends heritage charm with modern luxury. After exploring the lanterns or indulging in the festival’s food trails, retreat to a haven of comfort and style.
Whether you’re marveling at the vibrant lion dances or enjoying the culinary delights, make your Lunar New Year experience unforgettable by staying close to the heart of the action at Hotel Woolstore 1888 Sydney.
The vibrant Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Festival is back, running from 14 February to 2 March 2025! Now in its 47th year, this iconic celebration offers 17 days of unforgettable events, including international performances, dazzling parties, theatre, community gatherings, and more. The festivities culminate in the world-famous Sydney Mardi Gras Parade on Saturday 1 March 2025.
2025 Festival Theme: Free to Be
This year’s theme, Free to Be, is a joyful celebration of progress toward LGBTQIA+ equality and a powerful reminder that true freedom is only achieved when everyone is free to live authentically.
While the city comes alive with energy, escape to the tranquil charm of Hotel Woolstore 1888 Sydney, offering a peaceful respite after a day of celebrations. Conveniently located near Darling Harbour, our hotel provides easy access to Mardi Gras events while ensuring a relaxing retreat from the buzz of the festivities.
Get ready to chuckle, giggle, and roar with laughter at the Sydney Comedy Festival 2025! Running from 22 April to 19 May 2025, this annual event brings together the best local and international comedians for a month of side-splitting shows. From stand-up and sketch comedy to improv and satire, there’s something for every sense of humor.
After an evening of laughs, retreat to the comfort of Hotel Woolstore 1888 Sydney. Located near Darling Harbour, our boutique hotel offers the perfect blend of convenience and relaxation, providing a peaceful escape while keeping you close to the action. Book your stay and make your Comedy Festival experience one to remember!
Sydney’s most dazzling event, Vivid Sydney, returns from 23 May to 14 June 2025, lighting up the city with spectacular installations, captivating art projections, and live performances from renowned artists. Immerse yourself in thought-provoking talks and workshops designed to spark creativity and innovation.
Complete your Vivid adventure with a stay at Hotel Woolstore 1888 Sydney. Located near Darling Harbour, our boutique hotel offers a serene escape after a night of exploring Sydney’s illuminated landmarks. Book your stay now for a perfect blend of charm and convenience during this iconic festival!
This September 2025, the Sydney Fringe Festival invites you to Paint the Town Pink with over 500 events celebrating independent arts. From theatre and comedy to music and visual arts, the city transforms into a creative playground, offering unique performances and immersive experiences in unexpected venues.
Stay at Hotel Woolstore 1888 Sydney, just a short distance from the heart of the festival. Combining heritage charm with modern luxury, our boutique hotel provides the perfect retreat after a day of Fringe adventures. Book your stay today and be part of the celebration!
Catch Luke Combs Live at Accor Stadium – Stay with Us!
Country music superstar Luke Combs is bringing his electrifying 2025 World Tour to Accor Stadium, Sydney, on 31 January!
Make it a memorable evening by staying at Hotel Woolstore 1888 Sydney, part of the Handwritten Collection. Conveniently located near public transport that will take you straight from our door to the stadium.
Book your stay now and turn your concert experience into a city getaway!
Sydney’s thriving entertainment scene is brimming with unforgettable performances, from musicals and plays to conferences and live concerts. If you’re planning a night out at the International Convention Centre (ICC) or the Lyric Theatre, look no further than PERCY Tapas Bar & Restaurant at Hotel Woolstore 1888 Sydney for the ultimate pre-show dining experience.
Nestled in the heart of Pyrmont, Hotel Woolstore 1888 Sydney is a stone’s throw from two of the city’s most iconic venues:
By choosing PERCY Tapas Bar & Restaurant, you’ll enjoy a seamless transition from a delectable meal to the evening’s entertainment without worrying about long commutes or parking hassles.
At PERCY Tapas Bar & Restaurant, we offer a tantaliSing selection of share plates, inspired by fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re craving light bites or a more indulgent feast, our menu caters to all tastes. Pair your meal with a glass of fine wine or a signature cocktail, and you’re set for an evening to remember.
With its warm, inviting atmosphere and impeccable service, PERCY is designed to elevate your pre-show experience. Arrive early to relax and soak in the ambiance before heading to your performance.
Sydney’s entertainment calendar is packed with spectacular events, and there’s always something happening at the ICC and Lyric Theatre. Here’s how to find out what’s on:
After your show, return to the comfort of Hotel Woolstore 1888 Sydney, where heritage charm meets modern luxury. Our thoughtfully designed rooms and friendly, personalised service provide the perfect retreat after an exciting evening.
Make the most of your next night out in Sydney by starting it at PERCY Tapas Bar & Restaurant. With our unbeatable location near the ICC and Lyric Theatre, exceptional dining, and cosy accommodations, your evening will be nothing short of spectacular.
Reserve your table at PERCY now and turn your night out into a truly memorable experience.
Experience the Sydney Royal Easter Show—Australia’s biggest annual celebration of agriculture, entertainment, and family fun! Held at Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park, this iconic event features thrilling carnival rides, showbags, live entertainment, woodchopping, and world-class animal competitions. Explore fresh produce, arts & crafts, and interactive farm experiences, plus indulge in delicious food and show treats. Don’t miss the spectacular fireworks, rodeo action, and grand parades!
Make the most of your visit by staying at Hotel Woolstore 1888 Sydney, a boutique five-star hotel in the heart of Pyrmont. Just a short trip from the show, it’s the perfect base to explore Darling Harbour, Barangaroo, and the Sydney CBD while soaking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Book your stay now for a seamless Sydney adventure!
Experience Sydney’s iconic landmarks with Big Bus Tours, offering hop-on, hop-off sightseeing across two routes: the City Tour (Red Route) and the Bondi & Bays Tour (Blue Route). Enjoy panoramic views from open-top buses, with pre-recorded commentary and the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
Key attractions include the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Bondi Beach.
As a valued guest of Hotel Woolstore 1888 Sydney, you can access special rates with our partner, Big Bus Tours. Enhance your stay by exploring Sydney’s top attractions conveniently and affordably. Click below for more details and to book your discounted tour tickets.
Exciting news for music fans: Oasis is bringing their highly anticipated ‘OASIS LIVE ’25’ world tour to Sydney’s Accor Stadium on Saturday, November 8, 2025. This marks the band’s first performance in Australia since 2005, making it a must-see event for both long-time followers and new admirers.
For those attending the concert, Hotel Woolstore 1888 Sydney offers the perfect blend of convenience and comfort. Nestled in the heart of Pyrmont, our boutique hotel is just a short distance from Darling Harbour and provides easy access to Sydney Olympic Park, where Accor Stadium is located.
Our historic establishment seamlessly combines heritage charm with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy contemporary design elements alongside original features like exposed brick walls and large windows, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere. After the concert, unwind at Percy, our Spanish-inspired tapas bar, which offers share-style dishes and a vibrant social setting.
Make your Oasis concert experience unforgettable by staying at Hotel Woolstore 1888 Sydney. Book your stay now to ensure you don’t miss out on this iconic event.
