Good morning, Inner Westies. The rain’s been relentless, but things are set to clear from Saturday. Here's what's happening this weekend in your Inner West.

Note: Please check to confirm details are accurate with venues, event providers, restaurants and pubs by clicking through to their site. Events are occasionally cancelled at the last minute.

Grab your morning coffee and join us as we explore the Inner West together.

— Jess Thorning

Set right in the heart of Norton Street, La Bottega brings a sun-lit Italian brunch experience to Sydney’s Little Italy. With welcoming striped umbrellas and a dog-friendly vibe, it's a favourite for both people and pups.

Menu highlights include breakfast bruschetta with buffalo mozzarella and prosciutto or smoked salmon, prawn spaghetti in a white wine sauce, and a steak focaccia sandwich with hand-cut chips—all served in relaxed, sunny surroundings.The Italian Style Shakshuka eggs were delicious! Open Mon–Fri 7:30 am–3 pm; Sat–Sun 8 am–3 pm.

📍 Shop 9/39 Norton Street, Leichhardt / Open Mon to Fri 7:30am – 3pm & Sat to Sun 8am – 2pm
👉 See Website for more info and Check out their Instagram

The new Sydney Fish Market has given Sydney a sneak peek of its spectacular roof lighting system. The 200-metre-long floating canopy features over 400 individual lights and four kilometres of cabling, capable of dazzling multi-coloured displays for special events and festivals like Vivid Sydney. Already an engineering marvel by day, the illuminated roof will redefine the harbour skyline at night as the market prepares to open later this year.

👉 Read more here

Each week (or thereabouts) we spotlight one interesting local listing — whether it’s jaw-droppingly luxe, a federation beauty, or full of fixer-upper charm. It’s a fun little peek into Inner West real estate - no judgment, just curiosity.

One of my favourite hobbies is looking at homes I’ll never be able to afford. If it’s yours too, you’re in the right place.

Known as The Pigeon Shed, this former warehouse has been transformed into a striking 735sqm residence by MCK Architects. A triple-height void sets the dramatic tone, with light, space and raw materials defining its three flexible levels. Expect courtyards, a pool, copper-clad lift (the ultimate flex!), integrated gallery spaces and a top-floor master retreat — all hidden behind an unassuming Chippendale façade.

After this week's downpour, I'd settle for just one dry garage. These lucky souls get three, and a pool for when the sun finally comes out.

📍42-44 Pine Street, Chippendale / 5 bed / 4 bath / 3 car
👉 Listed with BresicWhitney – East

📚 FINAL Book Week Storytime at Inner West Council Libraries
Last chance to celebrate Book Week with special Storytime session reading titles from the 2025 Picture Book and Early Childhood shortlists. Dress as your favourite book character and join in the fun. For children aged 3–5. ♿️
🕛 10:30am – 11am
📍St Peters Library & Stanmore Library / Friday 22 August 2025

🎉 It’s a Birthday Party!
Celebrate Garranga Bumarri and Gadi’s birthday at this annual reading day with music, crafts, puppets, and activities for children not yet at school. Free event hosted by Connect Marrickville.
📍 Marrickville Library and Pavilion / Friday 22 August 2025 / 10am – 12pm ♿️

🎤 K-Pop Demon Hunters Sing-Along
Sing-along version of the Netflix hit film for one weekend only. Seal the Honmoon and sing your favourite songs with HUNTR/X and the Saja Boys.
📍Broadway Hoyts / Saturday 23 & Sunday 24 August 2025 / Several sessions across day

🥊 Kids Muay Thai 6 Week Program (ages 5-12)
Learn Thai kickboxing in a safe, supportive environment. No experience needed. Bookings essential. Starts this Saturday.
📍Ashfield Aquatic Centre, Ashfield / Saturday 23 August 2025 / 11am – 12pm ♿️

🎵 Teeny Tiny Stevies
Wholesome live gig that will entertain littlies and brings the LOLs for parents. Playing biggest hits plus new tunes, with dancing and sing-alongs. Last tickets remaining.
📍Factory Theatre Marrickville / Sunday 24 August 2025 / 10am

📚 HSC Workshop: The Craft of Writing
Workshop designed to help students unlock their potential and perform best in assessments and exams.
📍Marrickville Library / Sunday 24 August 2025 / 12pm – 1:30pm ♿️

📚 HSC Study More at Five Dock Library
Extended study sessions for HSC students, offering a dedicated study space outside normal hours.
📍 Five Dock Library / Tuesday 26 & Wednesday 27 August 2025 / 7:30pm – 9:30pm

📚 Reading Rocks! (K to 6)
One-on-one reading sessions with volunteers from Santa Sabina College. Bring a book from home or select one from the library. Bookings essential.
📍Burwood Library / Wednesday 27 August 2025 / 3:45pm, 4:05pm & 4:25pm

🧒 Minis Week @ South Eveleigh

🍽️ Frost & Feast @ Darling Quarter 
Winter wonderland dining domes for groups of 4 to 8. $30 booking fee per person includes welcome drink from Frost Bar. 3-course meals available separately from Braza Churrascaria, Ichoume or Dopa by Devon for $69pp or weekend High Tea by Kürtősh for $30pp. Kids menu $20. See website for terms & conditions.
📍Darling Quarter, Darling Harbour / Friday 16 to Sunday 31 August 2025

👕Vintage Kilo Sale @ Marrickville
Kilo Sale is Australia's first and biggest clothing event where you purchase your items by the kilo. All racks are replenished with new stock throughout the event - you will always have the chance to get a first look at fresh items. Get tickets here.
📍29 Smith St, Marrickville / Friday 22 August 2025, 4pm – 8pm & Saturday 23 August 2025, 9am – 1pm

👗 Fashion Frenzy $5 Items Sale
Pre-loved fashion sale supporting Dress for Success NSW and ACT with VIP early access, early bird session, and clearance sale where everything is 2 for $5. See website for details.
📍Marrickville Town Hall / Friday 22 August 2025 1pm-3:30pm (VIP $25) & Saturday 23 August 2025 9am – 10:30am (Early Bird $15), 11am – 12pm (Clearance $5)

🍺 Beer Dinner with Chuck Hahn of Chuck & Son's Brewing Co.
Join legendary brewer Chuck Hahn for an evening of beer and food matching, featuring unique brews paired with delicious hors d'oeuvres from Sto Lat Kitchen.
📍Polish Club, Ashfield / Friday 22 August 2025 / 6:30pm – 10pm

✏️ Nudenight Life Drawing at Doodler
Life Drawing with professional models and an amazing creative atmosphere every Wed/Thur/Fri/Sat/Sun. Tickets $29.
📍Doodler, Marrickville / Friday 22 August 2025 / 7pm – 9pm ♿️

🤸‍♂️ Pilates & Pastry Pop-Up
A 45-minute Pilates flow followed by cosy drinks and freshly baked pastries. A great opportunity to recharge and meet new people while indulging in tasty treats. Bring your own mat.
📍ONA Coffee Sydney, Marrickville / Saturday 23 August 2025 / 5:30pm – 7:30pm

🛠️ Free Repair Day at the Sustainability Hub
Get clothing, shoes, jewellery, bikes, furniture, electricals, tools, and sewing machines repaired by skilled repairers — all for free. Inner West Council Residents only. Most sessions booked out, but can join waitlists.
📍 Sustainability Hub, Summer Hill / Saturday 23 August 2025 / 10am – 3:30pm

🎨 Perfect Match Street Art Celebration @Sustainability Hub
Join the unveiling of new mural "Welcome to the Circular Economy" by local artist Kelly Wallwork. Meet the artist, learn about the artwork and enjoy light refreshments.
📍Inner West Sustainability Hub, Summer Hill / Saturday 23 August 2025 / 12pm – 1pm ♿️

🐾 Paws & Whiskers Fest
Celebrate International Dog Day with express dog portraits, spin the wheel giveaways, complimentary bandanas, obstacle courses, and free DIY dog wash stations for you and your furry friend.
📍Birkenhead Point, Drummoyne / Saturday 23 August 2025 / 11am – 3pm

🌙 The Italian Forum Twilight Markets - NEW!
New weekly market in the heart of Sydney’s Little Italy with artisan food, Italian street eats, handmade goods, live music, and boutique stalls in a festive, open-air piazza.
📍 Italian Forum, Leichhardt / Saturday 23 August 2025 / 4pm – 9pm

🚶‍♀️ Walk to End Domestic Violence
Come together to take a stand against domestic violence with a community walk. Followed by inspiring guest speakers and free sausage sizzle at the pavilion.
📍Burwood Park Oval, Burwood / Sunday 24 August 2025 / 9am – 10:30am

🐕 World Dog Day @ The Bank Hotel
Celebrate with your pooch at this tail-wagging gathering featuring free professional pet photography, amazing stalls, competitions, giveaways, and expert advice from Sydney Animal Hospital.
📍Bank Hotel, Newtown / Sunday 24 August 2025 / 12pm – 3pm

🎭 Sooshi Mango Home Made | Encore Tour
Comedy superstars return with their highly-acclaimed tour featuring classic characters Johnny, Vince, Sam and everyone's favourite mums in outrageously funny skits and musical numbers.
📍Enmore Theatre / Sunday 24 August 2025 / 8pm

🍎 Marrickville Organic Food Market
Do your weekly grocery shopping and pick up some lunch from some of Sydneys best street food vendors.
📍 Addison Road Centre, Marrickville / Sundays / 9am – 3pm

🎯 Inner West Sydney Cornhole League
Come along to the FINAL night at White Bay Brewery before they move to their new home at Sydney Portugal Community Club! Everyone is welcome and able to play - all ages event.
📍 White Bay Brewery, Rozelle / Thursday 28 August 2025 / 6:30pm

🎷 Inner West Jazz Fest
Two nights of incredible creative music from the city's leading jazz and experimental artists featuring world premiers and local musical institutions. Book your tickets now.
📍Annandale Creative Arts Centre, Annandale / Friday 29 & Saturday 30 August 2025 / 6:30pm – 11pm

Our deadline is close of business Wednesday for each Friday edition.

🍢 Kolkata Social at Earl's Juke Joint
Final Street Eats & Beats pop-up with chef Ahana Dutt (Firedoor, Raja) serving Kolkata lamb kebab paratha for just $8 a plate. Expect spice, smoke and soul in every bite. Espolòn tequila cocktail specials ($12–15) all night while DJ Priya Chandra brings desi hip hop and bhangra to the floor.
📍Earl's Juke Joint, Newtown / Sunday 24 August 2025 / 6pm – 10pm

🍜 Winter Warmers @ Holy Duck
$48 all-you-can-eat hotpot and BBQ feast featuring crispy duck with pancakes, mixed platters of beef, pork, squid, prawns, tofu, veggies and more, plus sorbet for dessert. Refills available after each round, and fortune cookies on the house. See venue for terms & conditions.
📍Holy Duck, Chippendale / Limited time only!

🍸 Bar 26 Lilyfield | Wednesday to Friday | 4pm-6pm | A delicious curated menu of select cocktails & mixed drinks – as well as toasties & home made pizzas available to choose from | See venue for terms and conditions.

🍟 Rubyos Cocktail Bar Newtown | Wednesday | 5:30pm – 9pm | Order any 2 cocktails and they’ll shout you a FREE bowl of chips - see venue for terms & conditions.

🍷The Temperance Society Bar Summer Hill | Every day | 8:30pm to 10pm | $15 cocktails - see venue for terms and conditions.

A true Inner West favourite, The Midnight Special is small in size but big on character. Inside you’ll find booth seating, chequered floors, Americana touches and a killer soundtrack. The vibe is always easygoing, the lighting’s low, and the drinks mean business. Catch it before it closes for good this September.
📍44 Enmore Rd, Newtown / Tuesday to Sunday
👉 See Website and Socials for more info.

Thanks for reading. Please feel free to reply with any feedback.

Reminder: Please check to confirm details are accurate with venues, event providers, restaurants and pubs by clicking through to their site. Events are occasionally cancelled at the last minute and specials can change.

Have a fun weekend!

Jess