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    What to do in Wollongong this Week and Month. Find Events & What’s On Illawarra wide

    Looking for things to do in Wollongong tonight, this weekend or the month ahead? Welcome to What’s on in Wollongong & Illawarra Guide! Your insider guide to planning best days and nights out. Find all upcoming events in the Illawarra including Music, Arts & Theatre shows in Wollongong, Our Local Illawarra Markets, Wollongong Sports & Activity Events & Family Frendly Events & Things for Kids do Illawarra wide. We can’t wait to show off our most awesome events and things to do near you!

    What’s on in Wollongong Today, this Weekend and the Month Ahead – Find Events and Things to Do

    Things to do in the stunning Illawarra – above photo c/o Chilby Photography

    $12 Chicken Schnitzels + $10 All-Day Cocktails – every Thursday at The Icon, Wollongong

    Imagine a bar where it’s Happy Hour all day long… plus $12 Housemade Chicken Schnitzel, Fries + Gravy Well, it’s happening every Thursday at The Icon, Wollongong!

    HAPPY THURSDAYS from 11AM till LATE!

    • $6 ALL tap beers
    • $6 ALL wines
    • $10 EVERY cocktail on Earth
    • $12 Housemade Chicken Schnitzel, Fries + Gravy (made fresh – no frozen stuff!)
    • PLUS – Happy Hour Friday, Saturday & Sunday 3–7PM too!
    • Thirsty? Hungry? In the Gong? You know where it’s at. Visit now here

    Best Things to do in Wollongong / Illawarra in Spring

    Spring in Wollongong and the Illawarra bursts with energy, from vibrant markets and food trails to festivals, live music, and scenic bushwalks. Explore Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama, and the South Coast to soak up the sunshine, discover local events, and enjoy the best of the season. Get into Spring in Wollongong & the Illawarra here!

    Father’s Day events & offers across Wollongong, Shellharbour & Illawarra, Sunday 7 September

    Looking for the perfect way to spoil Dad this Father’s Day? We’ve rounded up the best local events happening across the Illawarra and Wollongong on Sunday 7 September 2025 – from lunches with a view to special breakfasts and dinners – so you can celebrate the Dad, Grandad, Uncle, Stepdad, or father figure in your life in style. Make it a Father’s Day to remember, and for even more ideas and inspiration, check out our full Father’s Day Events Guide!

    Get Moving This September: Join the Million Moves Challenge in Wollongong!

    This September, Wollongong locals are invited to take part in the Million Moves Challenge, a free 21-day event designed to get the community moving, feeling good, and building healthier habits together. From 1–21 September, the goal is simple: complete 75 moves a day – whether that’s walking the dog, dancing in the lounge, cycling, stretching, or hitting the gym.

    Participants can enjoy free access to gyms, leading workout apps like SWEAT, Les Mills, The Body Coach, and Zumba, plus sessions at local fitness centres. With a prize pool of up to $125k, the challenge is fun, free, and all about creating a healthier future for Wollongong—solo, with friends, family, or colleagues. Sign up now and be part of the movement!

    Community Climb Nights at Hangdog Climbing Gym

    Looking for something fun and a little different to do on a Friday night? Skip the usual and try an epic evening of climbing, laughs & new friends at Hangdog!

    Join in every Last Friday of the month from 6pm to close for a social, staff-led night for climbers of all levels. What to expect:

    A moving & groundbreaking exhibition by Adriana Māhanga Lear, now showing at Wollongong Art Gallery – Fafangu: To Awaken

    A powerful, new & beautiful exhibition by queer Tongan-Australian artist Adriana Māhanga Lear. It explores traditions of music, grief, connection to land, and honouring ancestors – all through photography, sculpture, video & music. Fafangu means “to awaken.”

    Free entry to the public. On now until 7 September. Learn more here.

    What’s on in September at Saunaus Wollongong

    Discover trusted contrast therapy with saunas, ice baths, infrared sessions, massage, and recovery lounges. Enjoy wellness, relaxation, and recovery while joining special events and promotions:

    • Massage with Jess – Mondays & Tuesdays. Intro offer 20% off.
    • Breathwork + Sauna & Ice – Wed 10 Sept, 6–8pm. $49.
    • Yoga + Sound + Sauna & Ice – Sun 14 Sept, 7–9:30am. $59.

    Gift cards also available for wellness experiences. Learn more here.

    What’s on at Dicey Riley’s Hotel

    Dicey Riley’s Hotel, Wollongong’s only Irish pub, is the ultimate destination for great food, drinks, and nightlife. Pull up a seat at the bar and enjoy a pint, relax in the cosy lounge with darts and pool, or savor delicious meals at the award-winning bistro, Noel’s Place, serving hearty classics and authentic Irish dishes daily from 11am, with weekday lunch specials and a kids’ menu.

    The pub comes alive throughout the week with a packed calendar of events, including dart and poker competitions, trivia, Bingo, meat raffles, and more, while live music every weekend – curated in partnership with local legends Yours & Owls – brings a lively soundtrack to your night. With drink specials, late-night pizza, and a welcoming atmosphere, Dicey Riley’s is the perfect spot for a memorable night out with friends or family. Gather your crew now!

    Wollongong Comedy – September Comedy Showcase

    Get ready for a night of laughs with Wollongong Comedy, the Illawarra’s longest-running comedy club since 2006! Don’t miss the September Comedy Showcase on Saturday 13 September at 7:30pm at The Builders Club, Wollongong. This month’s line-up features the hilarious Ben Darsow, Bec Melrose, Peter Meisel, Jacob Perry, and Nadine Livesy – guaranteed to bring the house down. Grab your tickets now and plan the perfect night out!

    Burgers, Beers, Bar Snacks….bring it on at Five Barrel Brewing, Wollongong

    Five Barrel Brewing is home to Wollongong’s most mouth-watering tribute to burgers.

    We’re talking juicy patties, melty cheese, crispy bacon, house-made relishes + next-level flavour combos – all grilled to perfection & made to match their freshest craft brews.

    Try the Bone Slinger – fall-apart slow-cooked rib + beef patty + pickled jalapeños + aioli = chaos (in the best way).

    • $10 Spicy Chicken Burgers every Thursday!
    • Stacked sides + crispy chips that never miss
    • Food truck open Thurs–Sun

    Sundowner Sessions & Acoustic Fridays – The Imperial at Clifton

    Perched above the stunning Sea Cliff Bridge, the award-winning and iconic, The Imperial, is your go-to for chill vibes, live tunes & unbeatable views.

    Keith Urban High & Alive World Tour, WIN Entertainment Centre, Wednesday 20 August

    Featuring Opener Chase Matthew & Keith Urban performing hits like “One Too Many,” “The Fighter,” and fresh tracks from HIGH. Don’t miss one of Australia’s most coveted live acts delivering a two-hour spectacle of pure energy and showmanship. Tickets are on sale now.

    Julia – Merrigong Theatre Co, 3 – 13 September

    JULIA is the must-see theatre event of the year! In 2012, Prime Minister Julia Gillard’s speech made headlines around the world. Now, over a decade later, that defining moment is powerfully reimagined on stage. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime performance from beloved Australian actor, @justineclarke_. Justine Clarke’s exhilarating performance will be remembered for generations.

    On 3–13 September at the Illawarra Performing Arts Centre, Wollongong. Book your tickets now before they’re gone.

    Spring Offer: Stay 4 Pay 3 at Holiday Haven Parks

    This spring, enjoy more time to relax with Holiday Haven’s special offer – stay 4 nights and pay for just 3! With stunning parks across the NSW South Coast, from Kangaroo Valley to Huskisson Beach, it’s the perfect chance to soak up the sunshine, explore breathtaking landscapes, and make the most of the school holidays (excludes October Long Weekend). Check out the Hot Deals page and start planning your spring escape today!

    Fraternity Sports Opening Celebration & Family Fun Day, Saturday 6 September

    Kick back and celebrate with The Frat on Saturday, 6 September from 11am to 2pm! Enjoy delicious lunch from the new eatery, Prior’s, while taking in stunning mountain views and joining in the fun. With bowls and giant lawn games, free face painting, bubble making, and live music, there’s something for everyone. Bring your friends and family for a relaxed afternoon of great food, laughter, and memories you won’t want to miss! Learn more here.

    Nature Shake, Wollongong Botanic Garden, Saturday 6 September

    Enjoy a free afternoon of hands-on nature adventures for all ages at Nature Shake! Explore native plant displays, wildlife talks, eco-games, a silent disco, storytime, art workshops, and the exciting Garden Gumboot Toss competition. Activities from local groups include native bees, creek critters, tree drawing, and more. Bring family and friends to celebrate the wild side of Wollongong! Learn more here.

    Steel City Strings – Forest Bathing, 14 – 21 September

    Experience the healing power of nature through music with Steel City Strings’ Forest Bathing, inspired by the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku. This September, immerse yourself in serene, wild, and spiritually rich compositions, including world premieres by internationally acclaimed composer Katia Beaugeais and emerging cellist Gabriel Frømyhr.

    Featuring works by Elena Kats-Chernin, Peter Sculthorpe, and Brenda Gifford, the repertoire reflects the beauty of the natural world—from the still majesty of forests to the roar of the coast—offering a tranquil space to breathe, reflect, and reconnect. Performances are on 14 Sept in Bowral, 20 Sept in Wollongong, and 21 Sept in Nowra. Secure your tickets now here.

    Eats and Beats Street Series SPRING – Oak Flats, Saturday 20 September

    Spring is blooming in Oak Flats, and the streets are coming alive with flavour, music, and fun! Join Shellharbour City Council for the Eats and Beats Street Series on Central Avenue Oak Flats, where local eats meet live beats in a vibrant celebration for all ages.

    Tuck into delicious food from local eateries and food stalls, enjoy live music and roving performers, browse creative market stalls, and keep the kids entertained with free family fun like face painting and circus activities.

    Plus, the day gets even bigger with Oak Flats Public School’s Spring Festival – featuring carnival rides, showbags, and non-stop excitement! Don’t miss this epic community day out.

    Culture Mix, Saturday 20 September

    Culture Mix is a FREE, inclusive celebration open to all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. On Saturday 20 September, 11am–7pm across Wollongong CBD, Crown St Mall, the Arts Precinct, Art Gallery, and Library, enjoy music, dance, workshops, installations, and global food. Sample Chilean street eats, join K-Pop dance classes, take part in a street parade with a Traditional Chinese Lion Dance and samba band, or explore the Cultural Bazaar.

    With Culture Kids activities, storytelling, a Quiet Space, accessible parking, and Auslan programs, there’s something for everyone at this vibrant community event. Learn more here.

    Black Diamond Boxing Fight Night!, Saturday 27 September

    Don’t miss Wollongong’s second Fight Night of the year on Saturday, September 27th at UOW Uni Hall! Featuring professional, amateur, and Illawarra Corporate Contender bouts, it’s set to be the biggest and boldest card yet. Experience a night packed with power, skill, and fierce competition—an unforgettable showcase of boxing talent right here in the Illawarra. Tickets are selling fast, so secure your seat or table now before it’s too late!

    BrickCon Wollongong, Saturday 10 Oct – Sunday 11 Oct, Illawarra Hockey Centre

    Join BrickCon Wollongong 2025 for a spectacular display of amazing LEGO® creations from Australia’s top builders! From breathtaking castles to the iconic DeLorean Time Machine from Back to the Future, this family-friendly event offers interactive building zones, rare LEGO® sets for sale, cosplay characters, face painting, pet adoptions, fundraising BBQs, and much more. Meet master builders, including Lego Masters winner Henry, and enjoy a fun-filled day for all ages. Secure your tickets now here.

    MS Gong Ride 2025 – Sunday 2 November

    Australia’s most epic charity cycling event, the MS Gong Ride, will take place on Sunday, 2 November 2025, in Wollongong. Since 1981, tens of thousands of cyclists have taken part in this iconic ride, raising vital funds to support more than 33,300 Australians living with multiple sclerosis.

    Riders will enjoy a scenic journey through the Royal National Park, breathtaking ocean views from Stanwell Tops, and the stunning Sea Cliff Bridge, before crossing the finish line surrounded by surf, sun, and sand. Whether riding solo or as part of a team, participants can experience a fun, safe, and well-supported event while making a real difference for people living with MS. Learn more/register now here.

    Nitro Circus, WIN Stadium, Friday 7 November

    Nitro Circus is coming to WIN Stadium for one night only — Friday 7 November — and it’s going to be absolutely massive!

    Created by action sports legend Travis Pastrana, the “Off the Rails” World Tour is launching in Australia with a brand-new 360° Stadium Show. Expect a 15-metre Giganta ramp, cutting-edge FMX kickers, fire rings, explosions, and non-stop, adrenaline-fueled action.

    Aussie superstars Ryan Williams and Jacko Strong will defy gravity with death-defying tricks in BMX, scooter, and FMX. It’s a full-throttle night of chaos, stunts, and spectacle — where the impossible happens. Don’t miss it! Buy 4 or more A or B Reserve tickets and save up to 25%!

    Figbird Cottage Wedding Open Evening, Saturday 15 November, 5.30pm – 8.30pm

    Celebrate an enchanting evening with the award-winning Figbird Cottage team and some of their talented wedding suppliers while discovering their brand-new Wedding Packages. This is the perfect chance to explore their stunning, boutique wedding venue and accommodation, with packages designed to suit couples seeking an unforgettable experience.

    Further event details will be shared soon, but please note this is a free event with limited availability – registrations are essential. To secure your spot, RSVP by emailing info.figbirdcottage@gmail.com or calling Lisa on 0415 937 732 today. Learn more here.

    Jimmy Carr – WIN Entertainment Centre, Monday 7 April, 2026

    The master of dark, sharp comedy is back on tour! Expect fast-paced, edgy one-liners and laughs that push boundaries. Not for everyone, but if you love his style, you’ll love this show. Don’t miss out on tickets – go here.

    Guy Sebastian – WIN Entertainment Centre, Thursday 7 May, 2026

    ARIA Award-winning singer-songwriter Guy Sebastian returns to Wollongong on Thursday 7 May 2026. Fans can expect a high-energy set featuring hits like Battle Scars, Before I Go, and Choir, alongside new tracks from his heartfelt and optimistic tenth studio album. With over 1.3 billion global streams, seven million units sold, seven ARIA Awards, 82 ARIA Platinum accreditations, and six Number One ARIA singles, Guy continues to captivate audiences with his soulful vocals, masterful songwriting, and unmatched stage presence. Tickets are available now!

    Wollongong’s NEW VR Escape Room Experience is HERE!

    Step into another reality with Virtual Reality Escape Rooms at Revolution Laser Arena, Wollongong – where mind-bending adventures meet next-level tech! Book now and get 20% off your first VR session! 

    • Perfect for parties, team events, or a fun family day out (VR Escape Rooms are for ages 15 yrs +)
    • Fully immersive. Seriously thrilling. Totally unforgettable.
    • You can also check out their VR Arcade experiences for ages 8 years. Battle zombies, solve puzzles, explore ancient ruins, or float through space! Fun for the whole family.
    • Age-appropriate options for kids, teens, and adults.
    • Book now/learn more here & experience the future of fun!

    Don’t forget to also check out their exhilarating and adrenaline-packed laser tag action at Revolution Laser Arena.

    Just Launched in Wollongong: The Recovery Room at Hangdog!

    Wollongong’s coolest (and hottest) new wellness spot is here – featuring a next-gen infrared sauna & ice bath combo. Open to All (no climbing needed). Located inside Hangdog Climbing Gym.

    Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or just need a serious reset while the kids climb – this is your go-to recovery zone. Epic value – best bang for your buck in Wollongong – casual visits from $10 & Weekly Memberships from only $20. Unwind. Recover. Recharge. Book your session now

    Also – Whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned climber, Hangdog Climbing Gym is your go-to indoor climbing centre in the Illawarra. Learn more here!

    Discover one of the Illawarra’s Best-Kept Secrets – go on a VIP Tour of the HARS Aviation Museum, Albion Park

    HARS, located at Shellharbour Regional Airport is a must-visit – and showcases Australia’s rich aviation history right here in the Illawarra.

    Unlike most museums, HARS offers VIP Tours where you can get up close with historic aircraft, for a unique, hands-on experience! Perfect for birthdays, family outings, Father’s Day, or any special occasion.

    Get the ultimate behind-the-scenes aviation experience. Book your tour today here.

    Get Inspired by Wollongong’s Top Sights & Attractions, including FREE things to do Illawarra wide!

    Get ready for heart-pounding fun at Revolution Laser Arena – the Illawarra’s ultimate destination for laser tag action!

    Whether you’re planning an unforgettable birthday party or just want to jump into an adrenaline-packed game with friends or family, Revolution Laser Arena’s state-of-the-art arena delivers non-stop excitement for all ages – blending heart-pounding laser tag action with next-level party options. Their laser tag kids’ parties include a dedicated host, private party space, personalised player cards, and flexible catering options – even BYO! Revolution Laser Arena is a completely exhilarating experience that captivates and engages. Book now.

    Don’t forget to check out their brand-NEW VR Escape Rooms and VR Arcade experiences here – get 20% off your 1st session now!

    Hangdog Climbing Gym – Wollongong’s Indoor Climbing HQ

    Hangdog Climbing Gym in Wollongong is the Illawarra’s indoor climbing hub. From fully supervised top rope climbing to dynamic bouldering, auto-belays, and unique vertical challenges, there’s something for every age and skill level.

    Kids can join term-based Learn to Climb classes, school holiday workshops, or progress to youth climbing squads, while adults can train casually, join social nights, or become part of their friendly climbing community. Ready to take things outside? Try one of their guided outdoor climbing days. Hangdog is your go-to for fitness, fun, and fearless adventure. Get started now.

    Don’t forget to check out Hangdog’s new Recovery Room with next-gen ice bath and infared sauna combo – open to all (no climbing needed). Epic value – casual visits from $10 & Weekly Memberships from only $20.

    Catch an historic Steam Train Ride at the Illawarra Light Railway Museum, Albion Park

    Visitors of all ages can enjoy rides on restored light rail vehicles and learn about the evolution and history of railways in our region at the Illawarra Light Railway Museum in Albion Park Rail.

    Ride the steam trains and miniature rail trains whilst getting a fascinating glimpse into the history of our rail transport. The tours are lively and full of history, you’ll get up close and personal with all the trains. The museum features a collection of trams, locomotives, and carriages + you and the kids will LOVE riding the miniature trains. Book online!

    The Museum is opened to the public for Steam Train Rides on the Second Sunday of Each Month and On the Forth Saturday of each month for Diesel Train Rides from 10am – 2pm.

    With a cafe and BBQ picnic areas to enjoy, make a day of it! Visit now here.

    Seacliff Bridge Wollongong – a must do!

    Eating & Drinking Guide to Wollongong & Illawarra – with What’s On in Wollongong

    Want Cheap Eats in Wollongong & Illawarra – read our best dining deals here.
    Want Romantic Restaurants in Wollongong? Read our Top Illawarra Picks here
    Read more Eat & Drink Inspiration Illawarra wide here
    Love a Happy Hour Deal? Find Best happy Hours Wollongong wide and in your Illawarra suburb here
    Discover Wollongong Best Breweries & Illawarra Distilleries here

    As a team of fun loving, grateful locals, we hope our What’s on in Wollongong team have helped you navigate and discover the best events and things to do in and around Wollongong & the Illawarra!

    After more events and businesses near you? Never suffer FOMO again with our Weekly Newsletter sent straight to your in-box! Sign up HERE

    These lands, waters and skies are a true paradise, and a gift to experience. We offer deep respect and gratitude to the traditional custodians, the Dharawal nation, whose sovereignty was never ceded. We pay our respect to elders past and present.