6 Must-Visit Spring Festivals & Markets Around Sydney for Family Fun

Spring is here, and Sydney is bursting with colour, sunshine, and brilliant family events. If you're looking for enriching, budget-friendly ways to enjoy the gorgeous October weather, you’ve come to the right place.

 We’ve handpicked six must-visit festivals and markets around Sydney that are perfect for kids aged 0-15. They're all curated for a beautiful blend of fun, flavour, and making those magical, memorable moments.

You’re doing great. We’re just here to help with the next adventure. Let's dive into the best family markets and festivals in Sydney this October!

This inner-city market is a treasure trove of artisan goods and delicious treats, all wrapped up in a fantastic, family-friendly atmosphere. Kids will love the fresh air and open space, and you'll love the quality produce and boutique stalls. It’s perfect for a weekend morning wander.

Why You’ll Love It 

A relaxed vibe and plenty of space for prams. Find unique gifts and enjoy a beautiful spring picnic lunch from the food vendors. It's a true local gem.

• Street Address: The Entertainment Quarter, 122 Lang Road, Moore Park NSW 2021

• Dates: Every Saturday, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

• Ticket Information: Free entry. Costs vary for purchasing goods and food.

• Family Tips: Arrive early for the best parking and to avoid the biggest crowds. There is a great enclosed playground nearby for a post-market play.

This massive community festival is an iconic celebration of all things spring. Think thrilling rides for the bigger kids, gentle activities for the toddlers, live entertainment, and a spectacular showbag pavilion. It’s an essential October day out, offering a full day of affordable entertainment.

Why You’ll Love It 

It truly has something for everyone, from show rides and farmyard animals to fireworks on select evenings. It's an action-packed, full-day affair that tires the kids out in the best possible way.

• Street Address: Sydney Olympic Park, Homebush NSW 2127

• Dates: Selected dates throughout October - check the official website for full calendar.

• Ticket Information: Entry tickets required (Family Passes available). Pre-book online for the best discount.

• Family Tips: Plan your day using the festival map to minimise walking. Pack a reusable water bottle - there are filling stations around the park.

Replacing the less-searchable previous entry, the Granny Smith Festival is a legendary, massive community street festival that celebrates the life and legacy of Maria Ann Smith, the "Granny Smith" who accidentally grew the world-famous apple. This festival is an absolute must-do in October, packed with carnival rides, market stalls, food trucks, and a huge street parade. It's the perfect full-day family outing in the North Shore/Western Sydney area.

Why You’ll Love It 

The sheer scale of the event means there's non-stop entertainment. There are dedicated Kid Zones, a Youth Zone for the bigger kids, and a spectacular fireworks finale. It's affordable, vibrant, and a wonderful way to experience Sydney community spirit.

• Street Address: Eastwood (Various locations including Eastwood Oval and surrounding streets), Eastwood NSW 2122

• Dates: Usually the third Saturday in October (e.g., Saturday 18 October 2025), 9:00 AM - 8:30 PM

• Ticket Information: Free entry. Costs vary for amusement rides, food, and market purchases.

• Family Tips: Public transport (train to Eastwood Station) is highly recommended as road closures and parking are challenging. Plan to stay for the finale concert and fireworks!

For a walk with iconic Sydney views, this track in the Sydney Harbour National Park is a winner. Starting near Taronga Zoo, the path hugs the coastline, delivering breathtaking vistas of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House at almost every turn.

Why You’ll Love It:  This walk feels like a secret bush track hidden in the heart of the city. You’ll get to explore historic military fortifications at Bradleys Head, spot water dragons sunning themselves on rocks, and finish at the family-friendly Clifton Gardens Reserve and Chowder Bay, perfect for a picnic and a paddle.

• Location:  Start at the end of Bradleys Head Road, Mosman. You can park here (fees apply) or catch a ferry to Taronga Zoo Wharf and walk up.

• Dates:  Open year-round.

• Ticket Information:  Free to walk. Vehicle entry fees of $8 per day apply at Bradleys Head.

• Family Tips:  While graded as having many steps, you can easily do shorter, flatter sections. The path from the Bradleys Head Amphitheatre towards Athol Hall is relatively gentle. This walk is best for kids out of the pram or in a carrier. Toilets are located at Bradleys Head and Clifton Gardens, which also has a great playground and a kid-friendly cafe.

Celebrating the rich diversity of Western Sydney, this festival is a colourful explosion of global food, music, and dance. It’s a sensory experience that’s great for opening your kids' eyes to different cultures. They’ll love trying new foods and watching the amazing stage performances.

Why You’ll Love It 

It’s educational, delicious, and incredibly vibrant. It provides a unique opportunity for your kids to experience different cultures right here in Sydney.

• Street Address: Parramatta CBD (Various Locations), Parramatta NSW 2150

• Dates: Various dates in October (Check Parramatta Council website for calendar).

• Ticket Information: Free entry to the public spaces and performances.

• Family Tips: Go with an open mind and encourage the kids to try one new food item. It’s close to Parramatta River foreshore, which is great for a cool-down stroll.

A truly beautiful market focused on the connection between paddock and plate. This is a quieter, more sophisticated market, but the fresh produce, artisanal foods, and farm-fresh flowers make for a beautiful family outing. Older kids will enjoy picking out ingredients for dinner.

Why You’ll Love It 

It teaches kids about where their food comes from in a hands-on way. The quality of the goods is second to none, and it makes for a beautiful start to a Saturday.

• Street Address: Paddy’s Markets Haymarket Site, 9-13 Hay Street, Haymarket NSW 2000

• Dates: Every Saturday, 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM

• Ticket Information: Free entry.

• Family Tips: Give your kids a small budget and a mission: "Find the freshest apple" or "Pick out a bunch of flowers for Grandma." It makes it an interactive experience.