Sunset Variations at Sydney Observatory
Spend the last Fridays of summer enjoying an intimate golden hour gig at Sydney's highest natural point.
Overview
Sunsets are at their finest in the summertime. They come later in the day, the air is warmer, and the vibes are nothing short of divine. Pair that with a bit of music, and you're set. That's the basis of Sydney Observatory's Sunset Variations — the annual outdoor concert series that sets up local artists for intimate three-hour sets in golden hour.
Every Friday evening from January 30 to February 27, 2026, guests are invited to arrive at sunset and settle onto a spot on the Observatory lawn, where you can enjoy Mediterranean-inspired food from Aplenty and drinks by Lo-Fi Wines while that week's performance soundtracks the change from day to night.
The music series, organised by Powerhouse Museum, returns for its second year with an opening performance of Afrofuturist jazz and R&B by Ethiopian Australian artist Nū. The following week, visitors can return to the lawn for layered percussive and synth works from e fishpool, then in week three come the cinematic compositions of electronics and vocals from the Aarti Jadu Ensemble.
On February 20, Luritja singer-songwriter and artist Keanu Nelson will perform an ode to his home of Papunya – a remote community northwest of Alice Springs. Then, closing the series is underground Sydney DJ Josh Panakera-Molony with Setwun: Celestial Bodies, a soulful showcase that blends jazz, dance and groove with the help of collaborators GLO, POOKIE, INQ., Meklit, Yasmina Sadiki and Hugh B.
Powerhouse Chief Executive Lisa Havilah says "At the highest natural point in the city, Sydney Observatory opens onto an unmatched view of golden hour over Sydney Harbour. The dynamic lineup of bold, experimental artists performing each week will transform the site for a month unmissable sunsets."
Sunset Variations will run weekly on Friday's from January 30 to February 27. Tickets are $10. For more information or to book tickets, visit the website.
Information
- The 25 Best Pubs in Sydney
- CP Picks: Aussie Summer Essentials — The Things We're Packing, Wearing and Using All Season Long
- CP Picks: The Editor's Gift Guide —What the CP Team Is Giving (and Hoping to Receive)
- CP Picks: The Best Gifts for Arts Lovers — From Gallery Prints to Music Gigs
- CP Picks: The Best Gifts for People Who Are Never Home — According to Travel Writers
- CP Picks: From Hot Sauce to Handblown Glasses — Small-Batch Gifts for Big Foodies