A roundup of the best things to do in Sydney this September
photography by @coppertb
WORDS BY FASHION JOURNAL
What’s on in Sydney.
Each month, we scroll, save and collate an all-encompassing guide to the best events happening in Melbourne. From fashion pop-ups and markets to exhibitions, writers’ festivals and art classes, nothing is off-limits.
However, looking a little further north, it seems Sydney has just as much on offer. Over the coming weeks, the annual Sydney Contemporary Art Fair will take over Carriageworks, while Sydney Fringe Festival will see over 300 events spread out across the city’s bars, pubs and underground venues.
Stay updated on the latest fashion and design events at FJ’s Events section.
For the fashion-inclined, there’s no shortage of pop-ups and vintage markets to browse, and for those looking to get their hands dirty, we’d suggest trying Oi Oi Collective’s ceramics and ikebana workshop. Find our full wrap of the best things to do in Sydney this month below.
The Sydney Contemporary Art Fair
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When: September 3 to 6
Australasia’s largest and most diverse gathering of contemporary art galleries, the Sydney Contemporary, is returning for its 10th edition. Held at Carriageworks, it brings together over 100 exhibitors and more than 500 artists, alongside large-scale installations, live performances, talks, guided tours, workshops and more.
Find more here.
21S Vintage Pop Up
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When: Ends September 4
21s Vintage is hosting an exclusive pop-up in Sydney’s Haymarket. Pop in before its last day on September 4 and discover a curated collection of vintage and designer clothing, jewellery and bags handpicked from Japan.
Find more here.
Fashion Thrift Society
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When: September 5
The Fashion Thrift Society world tour is stopping in Sydney. Browse over 100 curated vintage, preloved and designer stalls while enjoying a free photo booth, nail manicures, permanent jewellery and more. There will also be a range of food trucks on site, giving you the chance to fuel up and local DJs on the decks throughout the day.
Find more here.
IRL Club Pop Up
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When: September 11 to 13
Ten Tones, Aesthetic Culture Club and ROC Eyewear are teaming up to host IRL Club. The three-day pop-up will begin on Friday night, with a ticketed party, featuring a live DJ, complimentary drinks and snacks, a curated goodie bag and plenty of games throughout the night. Then, on Saturday, you can browse the space while sipping on matcha and on Sunday, enjoy a Polaroid studio installation.
Find more here.
Independent and Emerging Designer Pop Up
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When: September 12
Pinch, a curated retail platform for independent labels, is hosting its third designer pop-up. Featuring local labels like Be Right Back, Elas Crochet, Feaath and many more, it’s the perfect opportunity to browse and try on pieces in person.
Find more here.
Second Life Markets Sydney
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When: September 12
After selling out in April, Second Life Markets is back. Presented by eBay, there will be over 120 vintage and sustainable fashion stalls, DJs, food trucks, coffee, flowers and more. We’d recommend getting a ticket while you still can.
Find more here.
Made in Kin: Show and Tell
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When: September 18
Made in Kin is a multidisciplinary platform designed to support and celebrate people of colour from migrant backgrounds. This September, it’s coming to Reddie Furniture in Sydney for one night to present ‘Show and Tell’, where creatives can share current projects, ideas, lessons and the stories behind their work.
Find more here.
Hoa / Tay: A Ceramics and Ikebana Workshop Series
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When: September 19 and 27
Join Oi Oi Collective for a two-part workshop. On September 19, you’ll have the chance to create your own ceramic bowl or plate. Then, on September 27, learn how to fill your handmade ceramics with an ikebana-inspired arrangement workshop.
Find more here.
Sydney Fringe Festival
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When: Ends September 30
Sydney Fringe Festival is back for another year, with over 350 events at 64 venues. A celebration of independent artists and creators, you can expect anything from cabaret and comedy sets to circus acts, theatre shows and more.
Find more here.
Avatar: Forms of Vishnu
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When: Ends October 5
On until October, this exhibition brings together centuries of art and storytelling from South and Southeast Asia, celebrating Vishnu, the Hindu deity who preserves order in the universe. Expect to see exceptional historical and contemporary art from renowned collections in Australia, India, Cambodia, Switzerland and the United Kingdom, as well as an illustrated publication penned by a cohort of international writers.
Find more here.
Powerhouse Museum Future Fashion
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When: Ends December 6
Returning for another year, Future Fashion’s 2026 program is currently showcasing the final-year collections of four Sydney fashion graduates. This exhibition is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in what the next generation of Australian designers has to offer.
Find more here.
To explore more events in Sydney, head here.