WRAPPING UP SUMMER: HOW TO MAKE MOST OF THE SEASON'S FINAL DAYS
With February already more than halfway gone, the end of summer is nearing closer and closer *cries*. As much as it saddens us to officially kiss summer goodbye, there are plenty of great summer specials and events that you need to get your hands on before Autumn rolls around.
So, if you were in need of any inspiration for how you should be filling up your final weeks of summer - we know just the spots to check out.
Currently...
The Markets
Whether you're looking for some vintage denim or simply trying to fill your morning with something new - the markets are always a great idea. If you're on the northern side of Sydney, Manly Market Lane Live is a great spot to spend your weekend exploring. This summer pop-up wine and beer garden is the perfect spot to enjoy live music every night under the stars, and a great excuse to order form some of the amazing local restaurants in the area.
For those of you on this side of the the bridge (oh hey, inner westies!), the Carriageworks markets run every Saturday from 8AM - 1PM, and are definitely worth checking out. With everything from vegan coconut crumpets from Crumpets by Merna, to Hartley Truffles black winter truffles - there is something to satisfy whatever you're craving.
There'll also be a fresh pasta pop-up from Fabricca, coffee from the legends at Single O, hand sanitiser by Two Good Co., and reusable cloth face masks by Roasters with Altitude and Big Bite Eco. COVID-19 restrictions will apply, and you'll find hand sanitiser when you enter and throughout the market.
Outdoor Movies
If you're in the market for an evening event, the outdoor cinemas are a perfect way to make the most of the warm weather. With plenty of showings, spending an evening under the stars watching a new release (or an old classic) on the big screen is a pretty good way to spend an evening if you ask us. So, whether you're looking for the ultimate date night spot, or planning your next girls night - this is definitely something to make the most of before summer ends. With several to choose from, the ones worth checking out are the Westpac Open Air Cinema, Mov’in Boat Floating Cinema, Moonlight Cinema and the Sunset Cinema.
To mark the beginning of 2021, the Opera House is offering $21 tickets for their summer line-up of events, performances and experiences (we know, right?). At midday everyday until the end of March, the Opera House will be updating its list of shows you can buy $21 tickets to (with up to four tickets per transaction) for the following day. If you haven't been before, the Opera House certainly is worth the trip to Circular Quay - so make the most of the cheap tickets while they last!
Tuscan Summer Staycay at The Winery
Couldn't get to Europe but still dreaming of your overseas getaway? These Tuscan Summer Staycay inspired menus might just be the next best thing. Located at The Winery in Surry Hills, you can sit back and relax on the Tempus Two Terrace for the daily Apertivo hour from 5PM-6PM, which includes complimentary Mapo Newtown prosecco gelato with Tempus Two prosecco. This Tuscan Grazing Experience really is the ultimate Italian long lunch, and the perfect way to send off summer.
Museum After Hours
Right up to the end of March, the Museum will be leaving its doors open late on Thursdays for visitors to delve into the AM's newly renovated and reopened spaces. For the perfect family activity, you can bring the kids and wander through the summer blockbuster Tyrannosaurs – Meet the Family, or opt for a spot next to the pop-up bar and enjoy the music from a curated line-up of DJs.
Curate your very own evening after hours at the MCA, and see performances by musicians, artists, poets hidden in the galleries. For a truly unique experience, visit the MCA to immerse yourself in a range of exhibitions, or soak up the balmy summer weather by enjoying a drink with friends on the rooftop terrace. The After Hours special is on every Friday night throughout summer - so get in quick for the last couple weeks of February.
For all the spooky story lovers out there - this one's for you. Take a journey to spaces previously restricted to the public and discover what happens after the lights go out in a brand new sensory experience. These after hours sessions are filled with chilling stories about those from the past, and are not for the faint hearted. Check this one out for a great date night spot (you might need a hand to hold).
In March...
Look, we know what we said about filling up your calendar before the end of summer - but we thought we'd throw in some fun things coming up next month to give you something to look forward to and soften the blow that is autumn. I mean, the warmer weather usually sticks around until May anyway - right?
Monet & Friends
Whether you're an art buff or not, this is definitely one for the books. Much like the Van Gogh exhibition that took place late last year, Monet & Friends is an immersive art experience, with large-scale projections, animations and evocative music. Coming to the Royal Hall of Industries in March, this is definitely one to mark in your calendar.
To properly celebrate International Women's Day, the Opera House is hosting an 'All About Women' Festival - which will showcase several inspirational women, women-run businesses, as well as featuring interactive and immersive experiences and workshops. Definitely one to pop in your calendar - the festival begins March 7th, and is set to sell out quickly!
WORDS | Brittany Ross
IMAGES | Supplied
