Free activities across Sydney: Fitness, family-friendly, outdoor cinemas in Penrith, Parramatta, CBD

The best things in life aren’t usually free – but dozens of family-friendly events are set to take over Sydney this summer. See the comprehensive free list here.

The best things in life aren’t usually free – but dozens of family-friendly events are set to take over Sydney this summer, with new live music, outdoor cinemas and fitness classes set to help keep the whole family entertained without breaking the bank.

From The Rocks to Darling Harbour, Penrith Beach and Parramatta, a list of fun-filled events, festivals and activities will be hosted every day of the week this Summer holiday season.

Acting planning minister Anoulack Chanthivong said Sydneysiders’ Summer was “covered”.

“From the Laneway cinema at The Rocks, pickleball at Barangaroo, the Symphony Under the Stars at Parra Park, my family will be sampling as many of these events as possible.”

BARANGAROO

For those that love a run or a jog to start their day, Barangaroo Run Club is a place for runners of all abilities to come together and work up a sweat on Friday mornings from 7:15am.

Meanwhile, an Indigenous-inspired yoga class is held weakly on Wednesday at 12:30pm.

With the scorching summer heat, Barangaroo harbour beckons for a dip in the newly opened Marrinawi Cove all day and night daily, while Pickleball competitions run on Tuesdays and Wednesday from 12:00pm to 2:00pm.

Swimmers can now enjoy a newly opened swimming area at Marrinawi Cove, located in Sydney's Barangaroo development. (Photo by Lisa Maree Williams/Getty Images)

DARLING HARBOUR

Over at Darling Harbour, Rhythm n Bubs will host an interactive musical performance to enjoy on Wednesday mornings from 10:30am to 11:15am. Parents can also get the kids moving and grooving by introducing them to Yoga at Darling Quarter on Fridays starting from 10:30am to 11:30am.

THE ROCKS

Avid movie fans will also be treated at The Rocks, with an outdoor cinema offering a variety of free family fun. You and the whole family can register for free tickets at Laneway Cinema, with movies hosted on Wednesdays from 7:00pm.

The Rocks Laneway Cinema. Picture: Supplied by the City of Sydney

History buffs should also take note, that showcases from Sydney’s pre-European era to modern times are on display at the Rocks Discovery Museum, open daily from 10am to 5pm.

The Rocks Discovery Museum in Sydney.

PARRAMATTA

Next stop Parramatta, with a variety of free festivities for the whole family to enjoy.

Start the year with a bang at Parramatta Park’s New Year’s Eve fireworks – promising to be bigger and better than ever before – as Parramatta celebrates with families in mind.

World-renowned DJ Dorothy the Dinosaur will headline the family zone on December 31 from 5.00pm – 9.30pm.

Bring a picnic blanket and some friends for the Sydney Symphony Under the Stars festival beginning January 18th, concluding with a fireworks display.

PENRITH

Down at Penrith Beach wildlife warriors will be immersed with Sydney Zoos educational program running on Wednesdays throughout January.

But if you are hoping to join millions in their New Year’s resolution of getting that Summer Body ready, then fitness fans can also join a bootcamp at Penrith Beach most Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays in January.

And while you’re there, you can also register for learn to swim half day sessions, with instructors teaching lifesaving skills and water safety on the January 30, February 27 and March 22.

Meanwhile, on Saturdays from February 1 until April 5, kids from five to 12 are welcome to learn how to become Junior Lifesavers.

Alannah 12 and sister Charlotte Sweeney 11 at Australia Day celebration at Penrith beach. Photo Jeremy Piper

For nature lovers, one of Western Sydney’ most beautiful landscapes, Fernhill Estate, has a 2.6 km walking trail open Sundays from 10am to 12pm and 1:00pm to 4:00pm.

Fernhill Estate Walking Trail. Picture: Supplied by the Western Sydney Parklands

MT ANNAN

Punters can also immerse themselves in nature by discovering how NSW’s native flora and diverse plant species are preserved at the Australian Botanic Garden in Mount Annan at 11.00am Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

THE DOMAIN

The Botanic Gardens Sydney and The Domain, the Alchemy of a Rainforest Exhibition will show the public rare and strange tropical rainforest plants on display in an imersive, sensory exhibition daily, from 10:00am to 4:00pm.

Botanic garden alley, walkway. Sydney Royal Botanic Gardens alley with tree and orange flowers. Escape 21 July 2024 Why I Travel Photo - Getty Images

For the arts and culture connoisseur Sydney Metro Northwest has a Public Art trail, where you can experience the various displayed artworks designed on the idea of ‘The Network’ in community pockets at stations along the line.

Originally published as Free activities across Sydney: Fitness, family-friendly, outdoor cinemas in Penrith, Parramatta, CBD