There’s a vibrant lineup of events across New South Wales in 2016. In early March, Sydney hosts the iconic Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade on March 5, a colorful procession through the city’s LGBTI precinct that draws visitors and locals alike. Later that month the Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour season opens with spectacular outdoor productions, including Puccini’s dramatic fantasy Turandot, staged against the waterfront backdrop.
At the end of April and start of May, the region stages the large-scale Wings Over Illawarra airshow (April 30–May 1). The event showcases historic military aircraft, high-energy aerobatic displays and interactive ground attractions such as flight simulators.
From May 27 to June 13, Vivid Sydney transforms the city with its world-renowned light and music festival. The program features large-scale light projections, international and local musical performances, creative workshops and seminars, and a range of after-dark experiences that highlight Sydney’s architecture and harbour setting.
June brings the UnWINEd festival (June 11–13), celebrating the region’s status as a prominent wine-producing area. The weekend offers wine tastings, live music, food demonstrations and appearances by celebrated chefs, making it a showcase for local producers and culinary talent.
Looking ahead to late winter and spring, the Sydney Opera House opens a new season on August 30 that includes a highly anticipated production of My Fair Lady. This staging is notable for its creative direction by Dame Julie Andrews, who famously starred in the title role during the original 1956 Broadway run; the production will be exclusive to Sydney.
These events reflect the diversity of cultural, culinary and outdoor experiences on offer throughout New South Wales in 2016, from large public festivals and international-calibre performances to regional food and wine celebrations.