Sydney Eat Street: Great times across city for long weekend of fun
Celebrate the Aussie spirit this Australia Day long weekend.
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THE ROCKS
Forget throwing a “shrimp on the barbie” this Australia Day, instead head into The Rocks for all-day action. Stroll through the iconic Rocks Market for a taste of the lucky country’s diverse culinary offerings. Venture down to Circular Quay for Harbourfest, an annual event that features the Ferrython, Harbour Parade, a Kids Megazone and the Royal Air Force’s aerial display.
Not to be missed is The Great Aussie BBQ. Surf Live Saving NSW will serve classic sausage sangas. In true blue form, the free-range sausages will be donated by Our Cow, with proceeds going to Rural Aid. Alongside the Car-beque – a Toyota FJ45 that has been converted into a BBQ – guess the weight of their big stud bull for a chance to win $2500 worth of Our Cow produce.
FOOD TRUCKS
Whether staying local or heading out of town, you will find an Australia Day celebration featuring music, entertainment, rides, and food. But gone are the days of lukewarm sausage rolls and questionable pies; consumers are now calling out for flavourful, fresh fare. But getting those juicy burgers and loaded burritos on site takes a bit of co-ordination, which is where Ray Khouri, founder of Food Trucks Australia, comes into play.
“There are lots of free events on offer across Sydney local councils this Australia Day long weekend – cultural events, concerts, fireworks, pool parties, and Cinema Under the Stars. Suppose you’re letting food be your guide. In that case, Cevapi King Food Truck will serve traditional Balkan cuisine at Elouera Surf Lifesaving Club in Cronulla, while Jinny Burger will serve its signature sandwich at Meadow Park.”
PANTHERS PENRITH LEAGUES CLUB
For family-friendly Australia Day celebrations, head to The Backyard, not necessarily your own, but the outdoor courtyard at Panthers Penrith Leagues Club. There’ll be heaps of activities, including a disco and plaster painting for the kids (2-5.30pm), a reptile encounter, thong throwing and lamington eating contests. Live entertainment will run all day in The Backyard and the club’s other precincts.
For the big kids (aka adults) in the group, head to Squire’s or Dom’s for an Aussie-themed cocktail, including the Crikey – Melon liqueur, the Blue Heeler and The Bondi.
There’ll also be a fireworks display at 9pm.
PARRAMATTA PARK
Parramatta Park will throw a huge Australia Day party. The festivities run from 5-10pm on Thursday, January 25, so get in early and pick up something from Black Bear BBQ and Burger Head. Beat the heat with a cold bubble tea, then settle in for the evening’s grand finale, the Balloon Glow, a mesmerising display of hot air balloons and light. Come Australia Day, the event runs from 6-10am and starts with a First Nations dance, workshops, cultural talks, fun and games, tethered hot air balloon rides, and BBQ breakfast.
GABS HOTTEST 100
This competition is music to your beers.
The countdown is on again to name Australia’s Hottest 100 craft beers on Saturday, January 27.
Several venues are hosting brew fests to honour the lists, including Reckless Brewing in Bathurst, King Tide Brewing in Coffs Harbour, Bitter Phew in Darlinghurst, and an Eat Street favourite, One Drop Brewing in Botany.
Winter warmers to celebrate the season
Everyone is happy to see the sun peeking through the clouds, but winter’s not all bad. Bid farewell to the colder days with one last hurrah of warming fare.
Sniffing out Sydney’s best truffle desserts
Save the best for last. As truffle season comes to a close, be sure to indulge in some sweet treats featuring the annual earthy gem.