Golden hour in Sydney is a magical time – when the glare of the day fades and the dropping sun coats the city in a buttery glow. And there’s one particular spot in Sydney that seems to catch the light perfectly – a failsafe sunset spot with views across the Harbour, and one of the best places to stargaze when daylight disappears entirely. We’re talking about Sydney Observatory, and for the next five Fridays, golden hour here is going to the next level – elevated by a series of (free-to-attend) live performances programmed by the creative people behind Powerhouse.
Sunset Variations will kick off this evening (Friday, January 31) with a performance by the ridiculously multi-talented artist, composer and producer xmunashe. Tonight only, there will also be 500 scoops of free gelato on offer from the good people at Messina – first in, best dressed, so get there when doors open at 5pm.
Next up, on Friday, February 7, ambient instrumental duo Wilson Tanner (Andras and Eleventeen Eston) will soundtrack sunset with a mesmeric three-hour set.
On the day of love (February 14), experimental electronic artist e fishpool will set the tone as the light disappears from the sky above the Harbour City.
Friday, February 21 will welcome the spellbinding Maryam Rahmani to the Observatory, and the series will come to a close with a powerful three-hour set from the magnificent force that is RONA.
Remarkably, the event series is entirely free – though you’ll need to RSVP to secure your spot. Inside the venue, you’ll find a bar and food available to buy – picnics are permitted, but no BYO alcohol or glass. If tickets are exhausted by the time you get around to booking (and don’t be surprised, with this line-up), there will be overflow space on Observatory Hill – with each three-hour set broadcast out onto the park through speakers. Pack a picnic and head to the highest point on Sydney cove: this is accessible alfresco art at its finest.
You can learn more and secure tickets here.
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Want more sunset magic? Cockatoo Island is hosting a series of live music events every Saturday this summer.
Here’s what Powerhouse will look like when it re-opens.
Looking for more activity ideas? Here’s what’s on in Sydney this weekend.