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
Main article photo c/o Destination NSW

Best Things to do in Wollongong this Winter

Whether you’re chasing cozy vibes or a bit of wild adventure, we’ve got you covered with the best local saunas, scenic bushwalks, pubs with roaring fireplaces, indoor markets + much more!

With winter temps averaging 17°C, there’s no reason to hibernate! Discover your ultimate winter guide here.

Eats & Beats Winter Night Market! Saturday 5 July | 4–8PM | Tongarra Road, Albion Park

Looking for a great activity the whole family will love? An unforgettable winter night is coming to town! Eats & Beats is coming to Albion Park on Saturday 5 July from 4–8pm! Tongarra Road will be buzzing with street food, live music, an outdoor cinema, silent disco, roving performers, glowing fairy floss, and heaps of free family fun. It’s the ultimate night out — vibrant, delicious, and perfect for all ages. Proudly brought to you by Shellharbour City Council.

Get 5 months for FREE when you join Port Kembla Golf Club

Port Kembla Golf Club is the Illawarra’s premier golf course & just 15 minutes south of Wollongong. For a limited time only, pay for 12 months, play for 17 – that’s 5 FREE months of championship-level golf on a stunning par 72 course. Hurry – the sooner you join, the more you save! Learn more/join here.

Echoes: Steel City Strings, 15 – 22 June

Where East Meets West – A Musical Journey Like No Other! Step into a world of explosive energy & breathtaking soundscapes with Steel City Strings’ Echoes – an unforgettable celebration of contemporary music.

  • Feel the pulse of Asia meet the soul of Australia with powerful musical works!
  • Featuring a performing a showstopping concerto by the brilliant Julian Yu.
  • Breathtaking string pieces by Vivien Fung (Canada) & Yasushi Akutagawa (Japan)
  • 3 Epic Performances, 15 – 22 June, Wollongong, Kiama & Bowral.
  • Book NOW and experience the thrill of Echoes.

The Race Against Suicide Raceday – Kembla Grange Racecourse, Saturday 21 June

Join Kembla Grange Racecourse on Saturday 21 June for an unforgettable day of racing, community & fun – all in support of mental health & wellbeing in the Illawarra.

  • Local races
  • Live music + food trucks
  • Pop-up bars + giveaways
  • Raffles + epic prizes
  • Meet the St George Illawarra Dragons
  • Illawarra Hawks Basketball giveaways
  • Kids’ disco, jumping castle, rock’n’roll wrestling, face painting & fairy floss!
  • Chat with incredible local support services like Women Illawarra, The Barstool Brothers, The Man Walk, Lifeline South Coast & more.
  • Grab your tickets now

Queen, Anita’s Theatre, Saturday 21 June

Immerse yourself in the spectacle, grandeur and energy of the world’s greatest Rock band with Queen: It’s a Kinda Magic, celebrating the legacy of Queen and Freddie Mercury.

Bringing big sound, big screens, crazy lighting and outlandish costumes, this is the REAL ROCK EXPERIENCE! Grab your tickets now.

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

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

New Exhibition Alert // Greetings from Wollongong – Wollongong Art Gallery

A bold new exhibition celebrating our city’s unique blend of working-class roots & activist spirit to its creative flair. Wollongong has always been more than just steel and surf – it’s a powerhouse of visual culture & social change.

Dive into iconic works by Redback Graphix, explore the films of Mary Callaghan & discover powerful new perspectives through fashion, art, music + more!

Running until end of August, the exhibition is free to the public offering music, dance, talks & workshops. Loud, proud & uncompromising. Don’t miss it. Learn more here.

Main Photo: As part of exhibition Greetings from Wollongong, they’re thrilled to unveil a special collaboration with @wah_wah_australia – a custom knit jumper that pays tribute to the legacy of filmmaker Mary Callaghan (1955-2016) and the radical design spirit of Redback Graphix, co-founded by Mary’s brother Michael Callaghan.

$25 Pizza inc. Tap Beer/House Wine + $12 Cocktails – The Boathouse, North Wollongong

Located above the North Wollongong Surf Club, The Boathouse offers stunning ocean views, coastal-inspired dishes, and a relaxed vibe.

  • Mon–Thurs: Grab a pizza + schooner or house wine in the bar for only $25.
  • Now until 30 June: Enjoy $12 Margaritas, Aperol Spritz & happy hour pricing on house drinks—all day, every day!

Come for the deals, stay for the view. Visit now.

Skydive the Gong!

Take the leap from Australia’s highest altitude—up to 14,000 feet—right above North Wollongong Beach. Feel the insane rush of freefalling at over 200 km/h, then float peacefully under canopy, soaking up epic views of Wollongong and the Southern Sydney coastline.

Skydive Australia-Wollongong are based right in Stuart Park, just 100m from the sand—the perfect spot for your next big adventure. Whether you’re chasing thrills or ticking off a bucket list, their expert team makes every jump safe, unforgettable, and totally epic.

Why wait for the weekend when you can turn your weekdays into an unforgettable adventure? For a limited time only, take the ultimate leap of up to 15,000ft at Skydive Wollongong, for just $389 per person! Jump solo or with friends – book your Wollongong skydive today!

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 First Friday of the month from 6pm to close for a social, staff-led night for climbers of all levels.

What to expect:

Your chance to WIN big has landed at Wests Illawarra!

DREAM DOLLARS & DESTINATIONS IS HERE – on now every Friday until 27 June at Wests Illawarra. Over $27,000 in prizes to be won – that’s $3,400 every Friday!

How to enter:

  • Swipe your Wests Illawarra membership card at the kiosk during the promo period
  • Get bonus entries with every $10 spend at participating food & bev outlets
  • Entries reset weekly – so keep coming back for more chances to win!
  • Learn more here

Get 20% OFF all Winter Picnics booked with Pony & Wolf

From romantic dates, group celebrations to birthdays & wedding proposals, every picnic booked with Pony & Wolf this Winter comes with 20% off all styling costs. Just mention What’s On in Wollongong when you book!

Experience cosy blankets, plush cushions, boho teepees & delicious grazing platters- all set against the stunning Illawarra or South Coast backdrop.

Embrace winter with a luxe picnic you’ll never forget!

Wollongong Comedy 2025 LINEUP IS STACKED!

From razor-sharp satire to comedy royalty, there’s a show for everyone +catch Wil Anderson in Wollongong! All shows at The Builders Club, Wollongong.

  • Sat 14 June – June Comedy Showcase
  • Fri 4 July – Geraldine Hickey: Meander. Multi-award-winning brilliance from one of Australia’s best.
  • Thurs 10 July – Teacher Comedy Night. With Daniel Delby – Ex-teacher, full-time legend.
  • Fri 25 & Sat 26 July – Wil Anderson: Whatchu Talkin’ ‘Bout Wil?. Completely improvised. One of the fastest comedy minds in the game.
  • Thurs 9 Oct – Ben Knight: The Parent/Teacher Interview. Hilarious. Honest. Unfiltered.

Book now and plan the perfect night out!

30% Winter Stays + Stay 7, Pay for 5 at Kangaroo Valley at Holiday Haven

Looking for the perfect winter getaway? Whether you’re after a cozy coastal retreat or an adventurous outdoor escape, Holiday Haven has the perfect spot for you.

MJ Rowles Rodeo 4 Life, WIN Entertainment Centre, Saturday 14 June

Thrills, Music & Big Prizes! Featuring: Top bull riders, Travis Collins live, Lachie Cossor’s Outback Stockman’s Show, and rodeo clown Big Al. Early bird tickets & family bundles available – grab yours before they’re gone! All profits support the RPA Transplant Institute’s vital research.

Creative Dialogues, Saturday 21 June, Port Kembla

Creative Dialogues is back for 2025 – a 1-day creative explosion of art, ideas & music on Saturday 21 June in Port Kembla.

  • FREE workshops, panels, installations
  • Live music curated by Holy Pavlova
  • Across iconic venues: The Servo, NASA Gallery, Red Point Arts & The Bank Space
  • 10AM–5PM: Creative workshops, panels & art play
  • 5PM–10PM: Live music takeover
  • Perfect for artists, performers, creative entrepreneurs & culture lovers. Spark ideas. Connect minds. Celebrate creativity.
  • Full program & details here

New Exhibtion/Opening Weekend at Bundanon, 28 – 29 June: Betty Kuntiwa Pumani: maḻatja-maḻatja (those who come after) & David Sequeira: The Shape of Music.

Bundanon is proud to present its upcoming Season Exhibition, running from 28 June to 5 October 2025, featuring two powerful exhibitions that showcase leading voices in contemporary Australian art: Betty Kuntiwa Pumani: maḻatja-maḻatja (those who come after) and David Sequeira: The Shape of Music.

Pumani’s inaugural museum survey highlights key works from public and private collections, while Sequeira’s exhibition brings together four major bodies of work, including a new commission created especially for Bundanon. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience two distinct yet resonant artistic visions. Opening Weekend: 28–29 June. Learn more here.

South Coast Readers & Writer’s Festival, 5 – 6 July

Where voices connect & stories come alive! Join in for a weekend of words, ideas & inspiration with literary legends & rising stars. Expect bold conversations on speculative futures, climate grief, lost histories, womanhood, language, politics, poetry & beyond. Early Bird tickets on sale now.

July School Holidays – Programs, Activities & Events Guide

We’ve found the best Wollongong, Shellharbour and Illawarra School Holiday programs, events, activities & low-cost kids holiday FUN. The school holidays come round so quickly, but fun school holiday ideas await! Read on for our best What’s on for Kids School Holiday Guide.

Need more Illawarra School Holiday Activity inspiration – we have even more school holiday ideas at Parents Guide Illawarra HERE

(Not So) Blue Light Disco – Bundanon, Saturday 26 July

Get ready to hit the dance floor at Bundanon for a 90s disco spectacular like no other! Join us for a colour block party that’s part disco, part performance, and 100% fun. Expect an epic live DJ set, playful live art, prizes for best dressed and fiercest footwork, plus a pop-up bar, fire pits, and decade-defining dance moves.

Curated by the fabulous Aunty Jonny Hawkins, the night stars a lineup of bold performers including Glenn Twenty (Duncan Fellows), Cheryn Frost, and more surprises to come. Bundanon is located along the stunning Shoalhave River and only 1 hour from Wollongong.

🟦 Dress code: Head-to-toe colour block with your fave 90s flair
🎟️ Book your tickets now – don’t miss this unforgettable art party!

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

3-Course Winter Menu for only $45pp on now at Steamers Bar & Grill

Steamers Bar and Grill’s $45 Winter Menu is here to bring the heat & unbeatable value!

Enjoy 3 dishes for just $45pp — a yummy, warming selection of global street food favourites, crafted for flavour and serious bang for your buck. Available daily for lunch & dinner for a limited time only. Book now & dig in.

Introducing Lagoon’s Winter Warmers

Launching June 2nd, enjoy their special mid-week winter offering, including comfort dishes perfect for crisp days and chilly evenings.

  • $50 for 2 course – entree + main or main + dessert
  • $60 for 3 course – entree, main & dessert
  • Secure your table today.

The Wedding Hour Collective

Dreaming of a stunning wedding without the overwhelm & price tag? Say hello to The Wedding Hour Collective – your go-to team for beautiful, affordable micro weddings & elopements across Wollongong & the South Coast.

Founded by stylist Zoe Armstrong (Pony & Wolf Pop Up Luxury Picnics) and celebrant Lauren Kayle (Live Committed), they deliver high-style celebrations that are big on love, low on fuss.

From luxe micro weddings to “just-the-legals” pop-up I do’s, every detail is covered – venues, florals, photos, food, styling & support. Stunning coastal locations, secret gardens, & more. Create your unforgettable day – get in touch with Zoe & Lauren here.

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.

15% off Winter Wine Pairings with Dine In By Brooke Silk – a private chef in your own home!

Introducing Dine In — Founded by Chef Brooke Silk – Wollongong’s premier, award-winning Private Chef service, dedicated to bringing quality dining and find food directly to you. Warm up with Winter Wine Specials with up to 15% off!

  • Savour the season with up to 15% off wine pairings Monday to Wednesday and 10% off Thursday to Sunday, perfectly matched to our curated winter menu.
  • Treat yourself to a truly unique experience – a private chef-curated dinner in your own space.
  • Whether it’s a special celebration, a long-overdue catch-up with friends, or just a luxe night in, Brooke brings restaurant-quality food, flawless service & a personal touch that makes every event unforgettable. Learn more here.

Wollongong’s most talked about skin, laser, perimenopause & weight loss clinic! Introducing Sanctuary by Thrive

Now open in Unanderra, Sanctuary by Thrive is not just a skin clinic – it’s a revolution in holistic health led by GP & Aesthetic Physician Dr Jemima Grant.

  • Game-changing laser skin treatments
  • Skin solutions for acne, rosacea, aging, scarring + pigmentation
  • Expert-led perimenopause & menopause care
  • Hormonal weight loss programs that actually work
  • Total skin rejuvenation and more

BOOK NOW before Winter skin kicks in!

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.

igknight: NDIS Disability Community Programs

igknight is a leading disability care provider in Wollongong, Shellharbour & Kiama – providing tailored group & social activities, compassionate support workers and empowering experiences. Because everyone deserves to feel connected, supported & to live life to the fullest. 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.

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.

Pasta & Wine Nights at Andie’s Thirroul

PASTA & WINE NIGHT! Andie’s Thirroul is introducing a special Winter offering! Every Wednesday, enjoy their Pasta & Wine Night, with your choice of pasta paired with a glass of wine for $30. Every week, Andie’s will have a new pasta special available, along with their Andie’s fan favourites. Secure your bookings as spots will fill fast!

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

Now’s the time to book your memorable South Coast adventure with Jervis Bay Wild!

Jervis Bay Wild offers a range of breathtaking Whale Watching & Dolphin cruise options for you, your family and your friends to enjoy all year-round.

Explore the Wonders of Jervis Bay Marine Park with Jervis Bay Wild! Discover the hidden gems of the South Coast with their Jervis Bay Passage Cruise.

  • Cruise past the majestic cliffs of Point Perpendicular
  • Relax in the protected lagoon of Honeymoon Bay
  • Glide along the whitest sands in the world at iconic Hyams Beach
  • Watch Bottlenose Dolphins, sea eagles + so much more!

Ready to experience the magic of Jervis Bay? Book your adventure now!

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.

Welcome to Scoundrel’s Rest – your new go-to for tropical cocktails, global street food & seriously good vibes.

Say hello to Scoundrel’s Rest – your new local escape. With 50+ rums, classic cocktails & wild house originals, feast on shareable, tapas-style street food – with the kitchen open late every night. Don’t miss $10 Big Kahuna Burgers & tap cocktails every Monday + Happy Hour daily from 4–6pm. Visit here.

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.