January is a month made for getting out and making the most of summer. The holidays haze is still lingering, days are long, and there’s a buzz of energy everywhere you go.
From festivals and concerts to art exhibitions and markets, everywhere is alive with events designed to be savoured. Whether it’s a lazy afternoon at the beach, a rooftop performance with skyline views, or an immersive cultural experience, there’s a little something for every mood.
For those looking to start the year on a high note, January 2026 has plenty on offer. Here’s our guide to what’s happening around Australia this month.
NSW
The Golden Sheaf in Double Bay is hosting Sunset Rooftop Parties on Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th January from 5pm till late. Guests can expect sunset beats, $12 Tommy’s Margaritas and free entry.
Ace Hotel Sydney’s laneway cafe Good Chemistry continues its Sunday Arvo series with a pop-up by Ellie Bouhadana on Sunday 17 January. Bouhadana (@ellies.table) will be cooking up two “pizza” specials, and entry is free with RSVP. You can also celebrate Sydney Rock Oysters with Dan from Rock Oyster Depot at their next Slow Series event on Friday 23 January. Tickets are $25 online, and include eight Sydney Rock Oysters with accoutrements, plus a glass of sparkling, white or red by Balmy Nights.
For the ultimate summer experience, Shell House is the perfect way to start the night, with Menzies Bar, the Dining Room and Terrace, and Sky Bar all combining modern city energy with a touch of old-world glamour. Afterwards, make your way to The International, Sydney’s newest three-level drinking destination, home to The Wine Bar, The Grill, and the rooftop Panorama Bar.
Finely Tuned have unveiled a new music program THE WORKS, taking over Carriageworks this Summer until january 2015. Plan your visit with the full lineup and tickets, here.
Chiswick Woollahra is bringing back its much-loved kids gardening classes with resident gardener Pete Hatfield on 14th and 21st January from 11am–12pm. Bookings available here
St Agni is hosting its annual archive sale in Byron Bay, beginning on 15 January at 1pm, and running until 18 January.
Sydney Festival has kicked off its 50th iteration, and will run until 25 January with theatre, dance, music, visual art and immersive experiences popping up across the city.
Sydney’s iconic moonlight cinema is now underway, showing the best new films in the most picturesque location. See the full program and plan your visit here.
To celebrate the 2026 season of Madama Butterfly, Aria is offering a pre-theatre experience ahead of the performance at the Sydney Opera House. It’s available from 30th January until 25th of March 2026, with reservations available here.
VIC
Terrazza Aperol is the ultimate spot to enjoy Aperitivo Hour with friends at the Australian Open Grand Slam from January 12 – February 1, open daily from 10:00am until late.
Flying Fruit Fly Circus is bringing its world-renowned training program to Melbourne on January 17, with an exciting Open Day at the Circus Centre Melbourne. Bookings here.
The Australian Open kicks off on 12 January, running until 1 February. Plan your visit and book tickets here.
The Grey Goose Courtside Bar will be returning to The Australian Open, swerving up a French-inspired menu by Nik Hill, from Sydney’s Porcine. The signature Grey Goose Lemon Ace serve will be made fresh and available in their exclusive AO ready-to-drink cans.
Enjoy a film under the stars at Melbourne’s moonlight cinema, which is located in the Royal Botanic Gardens until April. Book tickets here.
Tough Mudder will return to Melbourne for the first time in six years on 31 January. After crossing the finish line, participants will be treated to a bar, food trucks and live entertainment.
ST. ALi is serving ready-to-drink iced coffee cans at various vendors in Melbourne Park, in celebration of the AO. From 21 January until 1 February, stop by for everything from lemon and coconut matcha, to jamon and brie jaffles.
QLD
House of Hälsa, a new all-day cafe and wellness destination, is now open at Mermaid Beach.
The Mondrian Gold Coast will host ‘Sounds of Summer: Long Weekender’ on 23 January. Headlined by UK house and techno duo Solardo, this is an eight-hour poolside takeover, with tickets available here.
SupaSocial is taking over Queen’s Wharf this summer with everything from $5 outdoor cinema showings to pickleball tournaments and live performances. More details here.
WA
Lotterywest Films is once again taking over UWA Somerville Auditorium, for the return of Perth’s favourite outdoor summer cinema. Details and tickets here.
The Scarborough Sunset Markets are back with locally-made goodies and delicious food being served up against live music and beautiful sunsets. Plan your visit here.
Love David Lynch? Then you’ll love this. The Revival House is celebrating his work with seven nights of his films, all shown in 25mm. Book your spot here.
TAS
Explore the best Tasmania has to offer in food and drink at the Hobart Twilight Market, which takes place on the first and second Friday of each month between November and March. More details here.
The 30th Hobart International tennis tournament returns with matches scheduled throughout the month of January. Plan your visit and book tickets here.
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