January is here, and there's no better month to seize the day. While many of us might have returned to work, there's plenty going on across the country to keep the holiday vibes going on the weekend. Get 2025 off to a whirring start with our guide to the can't-miss events happening this month, below.
NSW
Westpac's Open Air cinema has kicked off at Mrs Macquaries Point, with hits like My Old Ass, Better Man, and We Live In Time slated to screen. Book your tickets here.
Bankstown Arts Centre will present the 3rd Bankstown Biennale: Same Same/Different. From January 23 until February 1, the exhibition will collate powerful new works from prominent First Nations and CaLD (Culturally and Linguistically Diverse) artists.
Bistro Moncur will unveil a new summer dining experience, Sunday Marché. Every Sunday, the restaurant will host a Market Specials menu, where prices are set at market value, with the menu showcasing the finest seasonal produce from Sydney's best local producers. Book your spot here.
Sydney Festival kicks off on January 4, and runs until January 26, with over 130 free and ticketed events on this year's program, in the way of theatre, music, and installations. Plan your visit here.
Flickerfest, Australia’s largest short film competition, is returning to Bondi Beach for its 34th year. The festival will run from January 17–26, showcasing over 200 short films from over 3,400 entries. Secure your tickets here.
VIC
Lola Young will bring her ‘This Wasn’t Meant For You Anyway’ tour to Melbourne, performing at Max Watts on January 9. Tickets are available here.
East Brunswick Village is hosting free outdoor cinema screenings on January 9, 16, and 23. Local venues will also offer special deals to munch on as you watch your film, from sandwiches to grazing boards.
The Australian Open kicks off on January 6, and will run until January 26. Secure your seats here.
The Yayoi Kusama exhibition has opened at the NGV, with the record-breaking retrospective taking over the entire ground floor until 21 April, 2025. Purchase tickets here.
Up your wellness regime this month with immersive yoga and Pilates classes at THE LUME Melbourne. Classes are held every Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday, with each one accompanied by a unique theme.
QLD
The Queensland Art Gallery - Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) has unveiled the eleventh chapter of its exhibition series, the Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art. Experience the work of seventy artists from more than 30 countries until April 27.
Take a journey back in time with the Discovering Ancient Egypt exhibition, now on display at Queensland Museum Kurilpa until August, 2025.
The iconic Lifeline Bookfest will return to the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre for 10 days, kicking off on January 28 until January 27.
Ballet Theatre Queensland will premiere their production of Snow White on QPAC's Concert Hall stage. The season will run from January 23 -26. Secure your seat here.
ACT
The Sunset Outdoor Cinema is back, with blockbusters and classics screening amidst the Australian National Botanic Gardens. Running until February 22, book your tickets here.
The National Film and Sound Archive of Australia (NFSA) is commemorating the summer season with its Summer Film Series. Hosted at their headquarters in Acton, be immersed in a range of cinematic hits running through the day and night.
Celebrate 20 Years of the Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year competition, with an exhibition showcasing the winners from the last two decades. The free instalment is popping up at the National Archives of Australia until April 27.
WA
Wicked The Musical will continue its run at the Crown Theatre, with tickets available until January 25. Book here.
The Subi Night Market is back, showcasing food, drink, and artisan gems at Subiaco's Market Square every Saturday, from 8pm until late.
NT
Explore unexpected food and drink pairings at Unlikely Matches on Saturday January 11, from 3pm - 4pm. You'll enjoy three courses and paired drinks, with guided conversations about exactly what you're tasting.
Feature images: Instagram, Bistro Moncur, Flickerfest.
