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 Friendly Events & Things for Kids do Illawarra wide. We can’t wait to show off our most awesome events and things to do near you!

Things to do in the stunning Illawarra – above photo c/o Chilby Photography. Main title image c/o Jordan Robins.

Build your dream pool and enjoy a Bali Escape for Two with Bostock Pools & Spas! Sign your pool contract by 30 June and you’ll receive an incredible Bali getaway including return flights, 5 nights accommodation, private airport transfers, a KU DE TA day bed experience, a 60-minute massage for two and a special lunch or dinner. It’s the perfect time to create the family pool you’ve always wanted while also locking in a well-deserved tropical escape. Book your free consultation and quote with Bostock Pools & Spas today and take the first step towards your dream backyard.

Looking for an unforgettable school holiday event the whole family will love? The world-famous Harlem Globetrotters are bringing their 100 Year Anniversary Tour to Wollongong for one incredible show packed with basketball, comedy, crowd interaction and jaw-dropping tricks. Expect gravity-defying dunks, unbelievable skills, hilarious entertainment and plenty of moments that will have kids and adults alike saying “WOW!” Celebrating 100 years of thrills, laughs and family fun, this special tour also features exciting fan experiences, pre-game entertainment and opportunities to meet the stars after the show. If your kids love basketball, sport, action or simply being entertained, this is one school holiday event they won’t want to miss. Tickets are on sale now – secure your seats before they sell out!

Holiday Haven is offering 30% OFF stays of 2 nights or more across all parks, including cabins and sites — but this exclusive deal is for members only. Not a member yet? Join for just $20 for a 2-year membership and unlock the savings. Winter is the perfect time to slow down and explore the stunning South Coast without the crowds. This offer won’t last — book now and use code WINTER26.

One of Five Barrel Brewing’s biggest weekends of the year is back! Stouts & Snouts is three days of big, bold stouts, slow-cooked comfort food & all the winter vibes you could ask for + the legendary Pork Knuckle Platter & sides is back -pre-orders essential. Book now – this event sells out every year. Book now here.

Perched high above the coastline, Altitude 1148 serves up a beautiful high tea experience with sweet treats, savoury delights and endless tea – all paired with stunning escarpment and ocean views. Perfect for birthdays, catch-ups, bridal showers or a special occasion, it’s the kind of relaxed, scenic setting that turns a simple afternoon into something memorable. Book your table here now.

Looking for one of the best things to do in Wollongong and the Illawarra? Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures is an absolute must. Just a short drive from the coast, it offers a unique way to experience the region – walking high above the rainforest on the Treetop Walk, taking in sweeping escarpment views, and exploring the magical Enchanted Forest. For those chasing a bit more adventure, the Zipline Tour brings serious thrill and unforgettable views. It’s a standout local experience that combines nature, adventure and fresh air – perfect for visitors and locals alike. Book your Illawarra Fly adventure here.

Skydive Australia is offering locals 15% off tandem skydives over the stunning North Wollongong coastline. Jump from up to 15,000 feet and experience the ultimate adrenaline rush, with breathtaking beach and ocean views as you freefall above the place you call home. Whether it’s your first jump or another bucket-list thrill, their experienced crew will make it safe, unforgettable and seriously epic. Simply use the code LOCALS15 at checkout. Book by 30 June for jumps before 31 July 2026.

Perched at Bulli Tops with sweeping escarpment and coastal views, Gelato Emporium is a must-visit for artisan gelato lovers. Enjoy handcrafted gelato, quality coffee, gourmet sandwiches and sweet treats in a relaxed, family-friendly setting with alfresco dining. Browse a curated range of Australian-made pantry products and gifts, or pick up everything you need to create your own gelato, sorbet or frozen yoghurt at home. Perfect for a scenic coffee stop, takeaway treat or even small functions, it’s a delicious destination for locals and visitors alike. Plan your visit to the Gelato Emporium here.

Just one hour south of Wollongong, Treetops Adventure Nowra is a 2.5-hour treetop experience is packed with 80+ aerial challenges, 15 ziplines and courses ranging from 1 metre high for little adventurers (ages 3+) up to 35 metres for those chasing an adrenaline hit. It’s the perfect mix of fun, challenge and incredible views over the Shoalhaven River.

Thinking about dance classes for yourself or your child? Miss Zoe’s School of Dance is inviting kids and adults to try any class for FREE during Open Week from 29 June – 4 July. With classes for everyone from 12-month-old toddlers through to adults, it’s the perfect opportunity to discover a fun, welcoming and supportive dance community. No experience is needed—just come along, meet the friendly team and see why so many local families love dancing at Miss Zoe’s. Calderwood/Tullimbar • Kiama • Coledale locations. Reserve your free spot today: [email protected] | 0407 921 054

The 2026 Autumn Carnival at Kembla Grange Racecourse runs from March to June 2026, delivering a season of thrilling racing, standout themed days and stylish race-day vibes. Kicking off with Kembla Classic Day on Friday 13 March, expect live racing action, great food and drinks, premium hospitality options and an electric atmosphere across the Grandstand, Public Lawn and VIP spaces — making it the perfect day out for racing fans, social catch-ups and celebrations alike. Secure your tickets here now.

Mark your calendars! With a huge range of native trees, shrubs, grasses and groundcovers, plus expert horticultural advice on-site, it’s the perfect time to green up your garden. Wollongong Botanic Garden runs regular Greenplan Plant Sales once a month on selected dates – your go-to for affordable, high-quality plants and expert advice. Pick up a wide range of native groundcovers, grasses, shrubs, and trees suited to Illawarra conditions, plus unique exotic plants. Add a coffee van on site, sunny vibes and school holiday energy, and you’ve got the perfect morning out

Love baked treats, pastries and beachside brunch vibes? Join The Boathouse North Wollongong on the first Sunday of every month from 8am–11am for a special selection of Andy & Karl’s best baked goodies – both savoury and sweet. Round up the family or catch up with friends while soaking up beautiful North Beach views. Bookings recommended!

If you’re chasing live music in Wollongong, it doesn’t get more iconic than Dicey Riley’s Hotel – Wollongong’s only Irish pub and a true cornerstone of the local music scene. Pull up a stool at the bar, order a proper pint & settle in

Looking for a fun thing to do in Wollongong for kids, teens and adults? Game Point Coniston is Illawarra’s home of indoor pickleball — a welcoming, purpose-built venue where all ages and abilities can play, learn and get social all year round. Whether you’re introducing kids to a new sport, teens keen to build skills and confidence, or adults looking for a fun, low-pressure way to stay active, pickleball is easy to learn and seriously addictive from the first rally.
Game Point offers social play, coaching, intro programs, court hire and regular kids, teens and adult sessions, with all equipment provided and paddle hire available. Check out their Jan Events Schedule below. Find Game Point at 30 Miller Street, Coniston, or call 0438 800 250 for details.

A long lunch you don’t want to miss! Say hello to Bar Lina’s mouth-watering Asado Lunches, Saturday & Sunday. This is not your average long lunch. At Bar Lina, the table is set for a proper Iberian-style feast – suckling pig slow-roasted for 4 hours ready to share, crispy crackling, melt-in-your-mouth meat & all the trimmings. Book now.

Escape the winter chill and discover one of Wollongong’s most unique wellness experiences. Saunaus combines a traditional hot rock sauna with invigorating ice baths to help you feel amazing this winter. Boost wellbeing, reduce stress, improve recovery, warm up, slow down and reconnect. There’s never been a better time to experience the power of hot and cold therapy.
Upcoming Winter Events:
– Sound Healing, Sauna & Ice Session — 27 June
– Breathwork Sessions — 8 July & 5 August
– Perimenopause Information Evening — 14 July
– Kids & Family discount packages also available
Check out their winter events and book your session now.

Open Wednesday to Saturday in Woonona, Barney’s has built a loyal local following for its incredible wood-fired pizzas, handcrafted menu and unique Australian wild game offerings, including venison, boar and wallaby. With seven new pizzas, Kids Eat FREE Wednesdays, a New York-inspired venison lasagne, fresh seasonal sides and desserts that are worth the trip alone, every visit delivers something memorable. Whether you’re dining in, grabbing takeaway or taking advantage of their new home delivery service, Barney’s is serving up bold flavours and quality ingredients that set it apart from the ordinary. Check out the menu and discover what everyone’s talking about.

REMINISCE 80’s & 90’s is bringing the party back in a big way with their Black & White Party featuring a Michael Jackson Tribute on Saturday 25 July at Frisky’s, North Wollongong. Get ready for an electric night as the incredible Jason Jackson brings the King of Pop to life, performing all the hits — Billie Jean, Beat It, Thriller, Smooth Criminal and more. Expect a full dancefloor with DJ Claude & Stanthaman spinning classic 80s and 90s club anthems all night long. Doors open from 8pm at Frisky’s (Novotel Wollongong), with a dress-to-impress black and white theme. This one will sell out — grab your tickets online now.

Expect a magical evening of food, live music, markets and family fun as Eats & Beats Oak Flats returns on Saturday 19 September 2026 from 4:30pm–8:30pm.
This vibrant twilight festival celebrates the heart of Oak Flats, bringing the community together with entertainment, local businesses, delicious eats and plenty of FREE activities for all ages. Wander the streets, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy a fun night out close to home. Families can also enjoy carnival rides thanks to Oak Flats Primary School, with ride passes available to purchase on the night to support the school’s fundraising efforts.

Pro Wrestling Australia: Prize Fight Comes to Thirroul! Following multiple sell-out Sydney events, Pro Wrestling Australia is bringing its uniquely Australian live wrestling spectacle to the iconic Anita’s Theatre, Thirroul this September. Expect a huge night of hard-hitting action, larger-than-life personalities and elite athleticism, with 7 bouts on the card including a must-see PWA Heavyweight Championship Match. Featuring standout Australian wrestling talent seen across WWE Tryouts, Australian Survivor and international NJPW competition, this is one high-energy live event wrestling fans won’t want to miss. Recommended 16+ — book tickets online now.

One of music’s most iconic voices is heading to Wollongong this October, with Don McLean returning to Australia to celebrate 55 years of American Pie. Taking to the stage at WIN Entertainment Centre on Sunday 18 October, 7pm, this is a rare chance to experience one of the great American songwriters live. Expect an unforgettable night filled with timeless hits including American Pie, Vincent (Starry, Starry Night) and Castles in the Air, along with personal stories behind the songs that have shaped generations. Still performing with warmth, clarity and his unmistakable voice, McLean delivers more than a concert – it’s a nostalgic, shared experience through decades of music. Get your tickets for Wollongong here.

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.

Looking for a fantastic family day out in Wollongong? The Early Start Discovery Space is a vibrant, hands-on destination where children aged birth to 10 can explore, create and imagine alongside their grown-ups. From loose parts play and mud kitchen fun to building with LEGO, digging for fossils, crawling through caves and performing on stage, there’s something to spark every child’s curiosity. Located on the main campus of the University of Wollongong, this research-backed children’s museum blends play and learning beautifully — making it a must-visit spot for families, especially during school holidays when it’s open nearly every day from 9am to 3:30pm.

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 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!
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!
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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.