Westpac OpenAir

Westpac OpenAir is an unforgettable moment in each Sydney summer.

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Location

Fleet Steps, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

Date

9 January – 18 February 2025

Time

6pm – late

Price

Starting from $39 per person

The world’s most beautiful cinema

Set on Mrs Macquaries Point, before a backdrop that spans the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge and Sydney skyline, Westpac OpenAir is stunning celebration of film, food and Sydney lifestyle. 

From early evening a spectacular al fresco dining and bar experience comes alive on the harbour’s edge as friends, lovers, first dates and workmates gather to share a cocktail, a delicious meal and iconic Sydney sunset views.

This summer three of Sydney’s leading chefs present their take on the perfect summer menu. Choose from Italian, Vietnamese or high-end bistro, as well as a mouth-watering list of cocktails, champagnes, wines, beer and non-alcoholic beverages.

At dusk, the giant cinema screen is hydraulically raised to stand three storeys high over Sydney Harbour, signalling the start of an extraordinary cinema sensation. Dolby digital surround sound, 4k projection and comfortable cinema seating, all add to the experience.

Then there’s the film program! Featuring premieres, previews, current release blockbusters and art house beauties, as well as much-loved classics, Westpac OpenAir holds something special for anyone who loves great stories.

Full program to be released 28 November 2024. Tickets on sale from 9 December 2024.

The Westpac OpenAir FAQs can be viewed here

Book now

"The perfect marriage of art and nature"

The New York Times

Film program

Click here to view the full 2025 film program.

FAQs

What is the event?

Westpac OpenAir is a premium outdoor cinema experience screening films with a harbourside restaurant and bar. This year the event celebrates its 28th season at Fleet Steps, Mrs Macquaries Point.

Where can I find more information about the event and how to attend?

Visit the Westpac OpenAir website for more information: https://westpacopenair.com.au/

Which areas of the The Domain/Botanic Garden are impacted by this event and when?

Fleet Steps, Mrs Macquaries Point

Site occupation: Wednesday 11 December 2024 – Monday 24 February 2025

Event Season: Thursday 9 January – Tuesday 18 February 2025

I am not attending the event, will I still be able to access The Domain/Botanic Garden on the event day/s?

Bump-in and bump-out phase: Due to the size of the infrastructure and set up of this event, for safety reasons there will be no public access along the Sea Wall or Fleet Steps during bump-in and bump-out phases. Yurong Gate to remain closed throughout bump-in/out, pedestrians to be diverted through Victoria Lodge Gate.

Event season: Access will be maintained along the Sea Wall and on Fleet Steps until 5pm. See exceptions further below under Footpath Closures. 

What will the traffic and access impacts be?

We encourage patrons to use public transport to and from the event:

  • Train: exit via St James, Martin Place or Circular Quay stations
  • Ferry: walk from Circular Quay
  • Bus: for timetables, maps and to plan your trip, visit www.transportnsw.info

Road Closures: no road closures for this event however, traffic delays are expected nightly on Mrs Macquaries Road during event season on egress between approx. 10.15pm – 11.45pm, pending film end time.

Gate Closures: Yurong Gate to remain closed throughout the bump-in/out period, pedestrians diverted through Victoria Lodge Gate.

  • Bump-in: 11 December 2024 – 9 January 2025
  • Bump-out: 18 February – 24 February 2025

During the event season access will be maintained through Yurong Gate until 8pm as per the Garden's regular opening hours.

Footpath Closures: there will be no public access along the Sea Wall or Fleet Steps during the bump-in/out period. 

  • Bump-in: 11 December 2024 - 9 January 2025
  • Bump-out: 18 February 2025

During the event season access will be maintained along the Sea Wall and on Fleet Steps until 5pm. 

Parking restrictions/parking availability: limited metered parking is available on Mrs Macquaries Road and at the Domain Car Park. For prices visit: https://www.wilsonparking.com.au/the-domain-car-park 

Mobility Pass Holder access: as per usual availability, see more about Garden accessibility here

Will Terrace on the Domain and Botanic House be open as usual?

Yes.

Will the Garden Shop still be operating?

Yes.

Will Bar Coco still be operating?

Yes.

Will there be any sound impacts related to this event?

Pre-season sound checks: Low level intermittent sound checks between 10am and 10.30pm, 5 – 9 January 2025 (dates TBC). 

Event season: Sound checks on screening nights from approx. 5pm (subject to change), and low sound impact during event hours 6pm – 11.45pm, Thursday 9 January to Tuesday 18 February 2025.

We are committed to complying with all legislations and guidelines covering amplified sound levels at outdoor events.

Messages can be left on the hotline number (02) 9231 8330 and will be responded to on the following working day. If there are any urgent issues please phone the ranger number on 0419 270 279. 

How can I find out more information on scheduled events held in The Domain Sydney and the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney?

We inform all immediate neighbours of events that may require traffic changes by email. We also provide event information via our website, newsletters and social media.

To stay informed, subscribe to our newsletter here or follow us on social media @BotanicSydney.

What other events are scheduled to take place in The Domain and the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney?

Check out What’s on to see what other events are happening.

How do I find out about hosting an event in The Domain or the Botanic Gardens?

We have a range of venues for hire to suit a variety of different needs. Explore our venues and lawns here.