Sydney offers plenty of options for visitors and locals looking to fill September, ranging from art galleries and vintage markets to creative workshops and theater performances.
Sydney Contemporary Art Fair returns to Carriageworks
The Sydney Contemporary Art Fair is back for its 10th edition, taking over Carriageworks. Organizers describe the event as Australasia’s largest and most diverse gathering of contemporary art galleries. The fair brings together over 100 exhibitors and more than 500 artists. Attendees can view large-scale installations, watch live performances, attend talks, and join guided tours.
21s Vintage is hosting an exclusive pop-up in Sydney’s Haymarket before its final day on September 4. The shop offers a curated collection of vintage and designer clothing, jewelry, and bags handpicked from Japan.
The Fashion Thrift Society world tour is stopping in Sydney. Visitors can browse over 100 curated vintage, preloved, and designer stalls while enjoying a free photo booth, nail manicures, permanent jewelry, and food trucks. The event features local DJs on the decks throughout the day.
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Independent Markets and Pop-Ups
Pinch is hosting its third designer pop-up, featuring local labels like Be Right Back, Elas Crochet, and Feaath. Shoppers can browse and try on pieces in person at this curated retail platform.
After selling out in April, Second Life Markets is back. Presented by eBay, the event features over 120 vintage and sustainable fashion stalls, along with DJs, food trucks, coffee, and flowers. Organizers recommend securing a ticket before they run out.
On one night in September, the multidisciplinary platform Made in Kin will present ‘Show and Tell’ at Reddie Furniture. The event celebrates people of colour from migrant backgrounds, allowing creatives to share current projects, ideas, lessons, and the stories behind their work.
Independent and emerging designers are also on display at Ten Tones, Aesthetic Culture Club, and ROC Eyewear’s IRL Club. This three-day pop-up begins on a Friday night with a ticketed party featuring a live DJ, complimentary drinks, snacks, a curated goodie bag, and games. Saturday offers browsing time with matcha, while Sunday includes a Polaroid studio installation.
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Creative Workshops and Festivals
Oi Oi Collective is hosting a two-part workshop series called Hoa / Tay. On September 19, participants create their own ceramic bowl or plate. On September 27, they learn to fill the handmade ceramics with an ikebana-inspired arrangement.
The Sydney Fringe Festival is back with over 350 events across 64 venues. The celebration of independent artists and creators features cabaret, comedy, circus acts, and theater shows.
Until October, the Powerhouse Museum is showcasing Future Fashion’s 2026 program. The exhibition features the final-year collections of four Sydney fashion graduates, offering a look at the next generation of Australian design.
The Powerhouse Museum is also displaying a large exhibition on Vishnu, the Hindu deity associated with preservation. The show brings together centuries of art and storytelling from South and Southeast Asia. It includes historical and contemporary works from Australia, India, Cambodia, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom, alongside an illustrated publication.
