Nishika Sharma

The ’90s are back, baby – the iconic era that gifted you Titanic, Tamagotchis and The Spice Girls has remained in the spotlight, from Troye Sivan and Charli XCX’s hit, ‘1999’, to Zara Larsson’s Midnight Sun tour aesthetic. And now, Smirnoff is channelling that same nostalgic energy into their brand-new ’90’s-themed drop for every generation to enjoy.  Whether you missed out on experiencing it entirely or are simply ready to relive it in all its glory, you can now embrace that true ’90’s energy with two fruity flavours. The classic Smirnoff Ice Original Lemon has had a glow up alongside a brand-new addition, the Smirnoff Ice Black Tea and Peach – both in bright and bold themed cans. In even more good news, Smirnoff is hosting three huge parties to pair. REWIND 1999’s program will bring the ’90’s magic to Sydney, Brisbane and Perth across three big days.  The nostalgic affair will kick off at The Court in Perth on Thursday, October 8 from 7pm. Matt Burd will be lighting up the dance floor with major hits, accompanied by a bunch of supporting DJs to keep the music going.  Next stop: Cargo Bar, Sydney, on Friday, October 9 from 9pm. Followed by Retros Brisbane on Saturday, October 10 from 8pm. Across both Syd and Bris, you’ll get to immerse yourself in all things nineties, with a makeover bar run by Glittoris, with YO! MAFIA spinning throwback tunes all night long.  It’s free entry at all three parties, and the best part? Smirnoff is slinging cans at ’90’s-style prices, so you ca

We’re settling well into spring, when sunshine returns and the days begin to stretch longer, which means it’s about time to lock in that long-awaited day trip or weekend escape. And just outside of Sydney sits one of the state’s most popular year-round getaway spots.  About 90 minutes north of the city, you’ll find the Central Coast – filled with relaxed beach towns hugging its expansive coastline, the eco-certified region is cementing its status as a beloved holiday mainstay, and its October program is stacked. The Central Coast is putting on four huge events throughout the month. From one of Australia’s biggest car showcases to eco-friendly expos, a vibrant pride celebration and an all-ages music fest, the Central Coast is set to have something for every kind of vacationer.

Sydney, it’s been a big year of discovering our beloved city in a new light. From the best places to boogie to a surge in hot new cafés to prioritising wellness, there have been heaps of wins! As well as plenty of learnings along the way… With the end of 2026 creeping up ever so quickly, it’s about that time of year when everyone’s beginning to think back on the last ten months. So we’ve curated a list of what we think should stay, while also ruling out a few things that don’t serve us anymore – literally. Here’s our list of Sydney ‘ins’ and ‘outs’ for 2026 (what would you add?)... INS Lasagne – whether it’s Vineria Luisa’s “seven layers of happiness”, the Bat & Ball’s renowned $17 number, Sippenham's vodka sauce lasagne, or Vitelli’s Upstairs’ lasagne bites) Idyllic weekend escapes down the South Coast for a change of pace Watching your favourite films with a live soundtrack by Sydney Symphony Orchestra Hyper-specific, regional dining – e.g. Padang Indonesian at Temu Kangen, Isan at Yum Club and Thai Chinese at Ama Sunny trips on the Manly ferry (what can we say? It’s a classic for a reason) The reopening of the Powerhouse in Parramatta Cheap eats – not just because they’re affordable but because they’re delicious Granita (hey, Mapo Gelato!) Saunas with outdoor cold plunges Lime biking to work Planning end-of-year festivities before the group needs six months' notice for plans   OUTS Only having one flight option (hello, new Western Sydney Airport) Waiting forever for the

When someone mentions Singapore, the first images that come to mind are its globally-renowned airport and iconic Hawker centres. But it’s so much more than just a luxe layover – from approachable bars and cosy hidden gems to its vibrant neighbourhoods and gorgeous leafy spaces, it’s the ideal city for customising your own adventure. Luckily for you, we’re offering a three-day getaway to Singapore, which comes complete with a two-night hotel stay for the winning pair and a comprehensive itinerary that serves as a love letter to its top offerings. From Wednesday, September 30, you’ll be able to throw your hat in the ring by filling out the entry form below.  Winners will not only secure two return flights, but will also score an AUD$500 voucher to spend as they please.  And with our ‘Singapore, Unprompted’ guide in tow, you’ll get to explore the city through the lens of expert explorers. We tapped insights from Time Out’s global editors, seasoned locals and Singaporean Masterchef’s Melissa Leong to build the ultimate cheat sheet to Singapore fun, so you can head straight to Singapore’s best food and drink spots and other hidden gems.  With this noteworthy getaway, you’ll make memories that’ll stay with you long after you leave. Get up close with mesmerising marine life at the Singapore Oceanarium, savour the rich heritage of the historic House of Tan Yeok Nee with its one-of-a-kind dining experience, traipse through the colourful streets of Katong-Joo Chiat – where you can nab

COMPETITION RULES THIS COMPETITION IS ORGANISED BY… Time Out (the Organiser)Print and Digital Publishing Pty LtdABN 50 125 441 812Level 2, 223 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010 WHAT’S THE PRIZE? The winner will receive: a Flight Centre voucher valued at $2,000 AUD, which may be used towards the cost of return flights for two people to Singapore; a two-night stay for two people at Conrad Singapore Orchard, 1 Cuscaden Rd Singapore 249715, valued at approximately $1,354.87 AUD; and a $500 AUD Visa Card to spend while exploring Singapore, including with reference to our curated Singapore itinerary. The total value of the prize is approximately $3,854.87 AUD (the Prize Package). If the cost of the winner’s selected flights exceeds the value of the Flight Centre voucher, the winner will be responsible for paying the difference. Any other costs associated with accepting or using the Prize Package which are not expressly included above, including travel insurance, passports, meals, transfers, spending money and incidental expenses, are the responsibility of the winner. The Prize Package is subject to the applicable terms and conditions of Time Out Australia, available at https://www.neflytia.top/privacy-notice. The following additional conditions apply to the Prize Package: The Flight Centre voucher and Visa Card must be used before their respective expiry in 3 years. The accommodation voucher is valid for six months from the date of issue and is subject to room availability

Spring has made its sunny return, which means it’s the perfect time to lock in a weekend getaway! And what better destination to hit up than Wollongong, just 90 minutes from Sydney but a world away from your daily troubles. The area offers the best possible combo of coastal charm mixed with a buzzing city setting, offering great restaurants, cafes, breweries & distilleries, and a thriving arts scene. From idyllic beach strolls & ocean pools to inviting laneway cafes, farmers' markets and plenty of al fresco dining spots, Wollongong takes its slow-living ethos seriously. And now Visit Wollongong is offering you the chance to discover the region for yourself with an exclusive two-night stay with plenty of added extras. From Monday, September 21, until Sunday, October 18, you’ll have the chance to score a weekender reset, heading off the beaten path to explore Wollongong’s best laidback offerings. Valued at more than $1400, the hefty prize pack includes a $500 voucher to spend on a stay at Surfside 22, where relaxed coastal living meets modern comfort in a Queen Room. Wollongong's dining and drinks scene is having a moment, think coastal charm, great local produce and a bar or restaurant for every mood. As part of your prize, you’ll enjoy vouchers to local haunts like The Boathouse North Wollongong, which pairs an approachable menu with panoramic views, noteworthy sips at First Light Brewing Co, and a farm-to-table cafe experience at Earthwalker & Co. We all need a reset at this

Filling every day of the school holidays with fun can get real hard, especially considering the cost of living. One of our editors’ favourite kids-go-free activities in Melbourne this holiday period is taking a Port Phillip Ferry ride. (They even offer some special on-board events during this time – but more on that later.) There’s truly nothing like taking a cruise across Port Phillip Bay on a beautiful spring day, soaking up the views and enjoying the journey. And for the entire school holiday period, kids aged between 4 and 16 can go free on regular ferry rides – as long as you book ahead. Kicking off from Saturday, September 19, parents can sort kids out early on regular Port Phillip Ferry services. The ‘kids go free’ offer is available if you pre-book seats and use the promo code ‘KidsFree0926’. The best bit: you can book for up to four free children per adult, so take the whole gang. Whether you’re keen for a day trip to fun-filled spots like Portarlington for mussels and wine or Geelong for museum-hopping or hot air balloon rides, or you simply want to make an iconic ferry ride the main event, you’ll enjoy the journey as much as you will the destination. All you need to do is pick between cosy indoor seating or the breezy outdoors, and the ferry facilities can take care of the rest – there’s an onboard café and bar, accessible wifi and incredible views.  If that’s not enough to satiate your energy-filled funseekers, you can even opt for onboard experiences to turn a la

COMPETITION RULES THIS COMPETITION IS ORGANISED BY… Time Out:(the Organiser) Print and Digital Publishing Pty Ltd  (ABN 50 125 441 812) Level 2, 223 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010 In association with:(the Prize Provider) NEON POPCORN PTY LTD  t/a STRUT & FRET (ABN 68 642 599 077) G6/1-7 Wilson Ave, Brunswick VIC 3056 WHAT’S THE PRIZE? Five winners will score 2x double passes each to Late Night Vice at The West End Electric Theatre in Brisbane on Friday September 25th for the 9:45pm session. As this prize is part of the Special Time Out Social Club, these tickets also include a backstage tour, a signature cocktail and reserved seating in the special pre-post show section. The value of the prize is approximately $2010 AUD ($402 per voucher). This prize is referred to as the Prize Package in these rules. 👉  The Prize Package is subject to the Prize Provider’s terms and conditions available at: https://strutnfret.com/privacy-policy/  👉  There are a few additional conditions from the Prize Provider which apply to this Competition and Prize Package: The prize will need to be used for the Friday session on September 25 2026 at  9.45pm.  WHEN CAN I ENTER THE COMPETITION? Start Date: AEST 12:15 am on 11 September 2026 End Date: AEST 11:45 pm on 21 September 2026 HOW DO I ENTER? Step 1: Fill out your details in the entry form found here. Step 2: That’s it! Just make sure you submit the form before the End Date.  👉 By uploading your entry, you understand t

COMPETITION RULES THIS COMPETITION IS ORGANISED BY… Time Out:(the Organiser) Print and Digital Publishing Pty Ltd  (ABN 50 125 441 812) Level 2, 223 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010 In association with:(the Prize Provider) NEON POPCORN PTY LTD  t/a STRUT & FRET (ABN 68 642 599 077) G6/1-7 Wilson Ave, Brunswick VIC 3056 WHAT’S THE PRIZE? Five winners will score 2x double passes each to Late Night Vice at The Grand Electric Theatre in Sydney on Friday September 25th for the 9:45pm session. As this prize is part of the Special Time Out Social Club, these tickets also include a backstage tour, a signature cocktail and reserved seating in the special pre-post show section. The value of the prize is approximately $2010 AUD ($402 per voucher). This prize is referred to as the Prize Package in these rules. 👉  The Prize Package is subject to the Prize Provider’s terms and conditions available at: https://strutnfret.com/privacy-policy/  👉  There are a few additional conditions from the Prize Provider which apply to this Competition and Prize Package:   The prize will need to be used for the Friday session on September 25 2026 at  9.45pm.  WHEN CAN I ENTER THE COMPETITION? Start Date: AEST 12:15 am on 11 September 2026 End Date: AEST 11:45 pm on 21 September 2026 HOW DO I ENTER? Step 1: Fill out your details in the entry form found here. Step 2: That’s it! Just make sure you submit the form before the End Date.  👉 By uploading your entry, you understand tha

Sydneysiders, spring is in the air and it's bringing beautiful music. This October and November, the Sydney Symphony Orchestra is bringing must-see experiences to the Sydney Opera House, from rising stars to the classical world’s biggest names. With vocal talent that’ll raise goosebumps and masterpieces brought to life, there’s an unmissable concert for every music enthusiast. 

Love live music, and want to shake up your nights out in the city? Melbourne Recital Centre is now home to a third live music-focused venue. Set with the city’s skyline as its backdrop, The Beacon is a sleek, neon-lit space primed for unwinding with great music and views. The Beacon has been dubbed the “rebel child” among its sibling venues, serving as a blend between an inviting third space and an intimate live performance venue. It has an approachable vibe, as well as an inviting food and drinks menu. Pushing the envelope with its line-up, you can nab tickets to everything from laidback live sessions to cabaret shows. The 60-70 seater – which can be transformed into an immersive cabaret mode based on the event – programs based on seven streams, ensuring a slice of fun for various audiences with its huge upcoming inaugural slate. For jazz lovers, their Skyline Jazz sessions will combine mellow tunes from a bunch of homegrown talent with panoramic views. You’ll see duos including Fem Belling & Monique DiMattina, Tamara Murphy & Stephen Magnusson and Michelle Nicolle & Hugh Stuckey on the bill across October and November. If you’re on the hunt for exclusive yet personal events, there are three streams that offer up just that. Burrimul Songs will put the spotlight on First Nations performers like Jess Hitchcock and Kee’ahn, who weave storytelling and language into their music. Unplugged aims to service those who love the stripped-back contemporary music scene, curating raw perf

Vino fiends, glasses at the ready! Winemakers from more than 35 NSW wineries will be descending upon The Rocks for Sydney Cellar Door, a huge celebration of the state’s best wine. For its third year since being founded, NSW Wine Month will see the best homegrown wines take over First Fleet Park, where top tipples will be paired with panoramic harbour views – truly the stuff of dreams. At this three-day féte, running from Friday, November 13 to Sunday, November 15, wine lovers will have the opportunity to meet the minds behind top wines – including regional vignerons, winemakers and venue owners – and sample the fruits of their labours. Plus, you’ll get to experience exclusive collaborations with NSW bars, restaurants and venues. Beyond the vino, the scenic space will be stacked with freshly shucked oysters and crowd-pleasing Italian bites, including arancini and wood-fired pizza. Make the most of the fest’s free entry and spend the weekend sipping your way through the state’s best wine regions, from the Hunter Valley through to Orange and Mudgee, with a stunning harbour backdrop. On this year’s bill of top-notch drops, you’ll experience acclaimed craftmanship from Silkmans wines, Brokenwood wines, Lowe Family Wine Co., Ross Hill, Via Pola, Stein Winery and De Beaurepaire Wines, to name a few. Take your pick between each winery’s finest bottles, ranging between crisp whites, juicy reds and deeper, more indulgent sips. Or, let the curators do the thinking for you by opting for

If you’ve ever felt the push and pull between expectation versus opportunity, then you should nab tickets to the upcoming Belvoir St Theatre takeover, A Room with a View. This stage adaptation of E.M. Forster’s timeless story is heading to the Surry Hills theatre for a month-long stay from next month, and promises a refreshed take of the original work.   In a production boasting a female-led creative team and an exciting cast, expect a modernised take on Lucy’s whirlwind journey as she navigates romance, hope and challenging social norms.  From Saturday, October 3 ’til Sunday, November 1, this book-to-stage adaptation will grace the cosy upstairs space of Surry Hills haunt, with evening sessions running from Tuesday to Sunday each week. You’ll still be met with all the best elements of the original, including the familiar Edwardian era charm and light comedic streaks. But this time, it’s contemporising the narrative that grapples with femininity, societal pressure, freedom and choosing self-expression – themes that still feel pertinent.  Co-produced with Melbourne Theatre Company, this reimagining of E.M. Forster’s classic by rising playwright and Aussie homegrown talent, Grace Chapple (Never Closer), has Hannah Goodwin (Never Closer, The Wrong Gods) directing and will feature Nathalie Morris (Bump), as Lucy Honeychurch. With tickets from $58, you can delve deep into Lucy’s experiences with womanhood, and the expectations that are attached to it, as she travels from her home

Screen-free interactive gameplay is back – and it’s taking over the LEGO Store Melbourne Central for the school holidays. Through every exciting iteration, LEGO® bricks and Pokémon™ have nestled their way into the hearts of every generation. If your kids have ever dreamt of hopping into The Town Map to enter the world of LEGO bricks and Pokémon, we’ve got good news. Now, they can. For a limited time, the LEGO Store Melbourne Central flagship is using SMART Play™ technology to bring the world of Pokémon to life – and the experience is free. From Saturday, September 19, get immersed in the ultimate family-friendly fun (ideal for kids and your inner kid-ult) by simply heading in-store to the LEGO® Pokémon™ SMART Play™ Zone and joining a free demonstration held by a LEGO Brick Specialist 12pm to 5pm daily. From channeling your inner trainer to winning some sweet Pokémon GO rewards, which includes A LEGO® Pokémon sticker, plus a Pokémon GO passport stamp!* The new range will be primed and ready for trialling through the interactive set-up. It’s the perfect opportunity to give the entire range a red-hot go. Get a feel of the LEGO Pokémon SMART Play(™) sets that include SMART tags that encourage world-building without a screen, assisting kids in creating and escaping into their own adventures for a while. Then, there’s the innovative SMART Brick, which adapts to children’s playing styles with turns, twists, taps and colour-identifying games. The best part? The LEGO Store Melbourne C

Ever since wildly popular taco truck Dingo Ate My Taco set up its first bricks-and-mortar space, Taquería Sin Nombre, in Chinatown, there’s been a line to get in. It’s quickly become one of Melbourne’s hottest spots for a delicious feed. We’re hosting an exclusive Time Out Social Club dinner at the buzzing Mexican restaurant, so you can skip the line of diners-to-be and embark on a one-off tasting tour. You’ll get treated to a range of Taquería Sin Nombre treats to find out exactly why the place is such a hit. For one night only, Taquería Sin Nombre will be dishing up a curated set menu starring its greatest hits. Here are all the details: When: Wednesday, October 7Seating times: 6pm or 8pmWhere: Taqueria Sin Nombre, 12-14 Celestial Ave, Chinatown, Melbourne Cost: $95ppBook hereNote: No dietary modifications Menu: - Oysters I Tasmanian oysters with green aguachile (add-on additional at $6pp)- Welcome drink: Hibiscus Mezcalita- Escabeche I Mexican Pickled Vegetables- Tuna Tostada- Camarones Zarandeados I Sinaloan Style Grilled Prawn with cultured Chili butter.- Lamb Suadero Taquitos- Al Pastor Taco- Brisket Costra Taco - Kanga Asada Taco I Kangaroo Asada- Fried Fish Taco $75pp Agave Pairing optional: Agave-based drinks curated by master Mezcalier, Paul Walcutt Secure your limited spots here Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for more fun stuff to land in your inbox.

Think you understand good manners? Well, everything you’ve learnt is about to be flipped on its head. In an Australian first, The Unfriend is taking to the Sydney stage from Tuesday, September 29 for a month-long run. Deemed “a killer comedy of manners”, this Sydney Theatre Company production will have you in stitches while challenging your perception of what good manners are – all with a side of murder mystery to top it off. When heading to the Roslyn Packer Theatre, strap in for big laughs and well-timed moments of discomfort, as The Unfriend heads into uncharted waters, taking on the tale of an unwanted guest – with a penchant for suspicious mushrooms – who’s adamant on overstaying their welcome. This puzzling performance is the stage debut of acclaimed writer Steven Moffat, known for his work on Doctor Who and Sherlock. Plus, Helen Thomson (who plays Lynelle in Colin From Accounts) will lead the cast, so it’s a stacked line-up of talent. If you’re ready to dig into a deliciously dark comedy inspired by a true story of the world’s worst houseguest, snap up tickets now. Catch The Unfriend’s month-long stint at the Roslyn Packer Theatre from Tuesday, September 29 to Saturday, October 31. Tickets are available here.

If you’ve had the pleasure of hitting up Queen Victoria Market, you’re familiar with the healthy dose of serotonin you get while leisurely strolling through its exciting selection of vendors year-round. But sunshine-filled days that yield the freshest produce and vibrant florals paired with the sweet smell of donuts and dumplings in the air? There truly is no time like spring at QVM.  It’s blooming season at the Queen Street mainstay, and this year’s harvest reset is nothing short of bountiful. Starting from Tuesday, September 1, you can dive headfirst into The Spring Series at Queen Victoria Market. QVM will see the return of top-notch seasonal fruit and veg like strawberries, artichokes, asparagus, Asian greens and zucchini, plus stellar seafood and coveted cuts of spring lamb.  At String Bean Alley, you can nab artisanal wares made with stunning craftsmanship. Expect to find a unique array of bespoke accessories, including custom jewellery, wooden utensils for your next charcuterie night, sturdy tote bags and bouquets of blossoming flowers to breathe new life into your space.  And to top things off, QVM is hosting a whole bunch of food fests and crafty events. The massive three-month stint, ending on Monday, November 30th, is putting community at the forefront, with the likes of the Melbourne International Dumpling Festival, an exclusive swap meet and Ripe Cheese’s luxe special – an incredibly decadent cheese toastie starring a whopping 25g of Petuna Tasmanian ocean trout

Believe it or not, Christmas is just around the corner. You can be sure that Michael Bublé is slowly defrosting in preparation to croon the festive season away – just as you know that the battered DVD of that one particular 2003 British rom-com at your mum’s house will also be back on steady rotation. For die-hard fans of Love Actually this festive hit will never get old, but if you’re after a way to make the movie feel fresh all over again, you’ll want to grab a ticket for this special live viewing experience. Love Actually in Concert is returning to Australia for four nights across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth just in time for Old Saint Nick’s next whip around. Pack the tissues – at this MA15+ experience, a full live orchestra performs the hit soundtrack with Sarah-Grace Wiliams (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane) and Craig Dalton (Perth) conducting as the film is projected onto a screen. Love (and Christmas) will be all around you.  Get ready to question how many lobsters were present at the birth of Jesus Christ and get mad at Alan Rickman all over again (Emma Thompson’s cry to Joni Mitchell will really slap with an orchestral back up, to be fair).  Aussie fans can get in on the holly jolly action in December. Perth locals are up first, with a session on Wednesday, December 9 at Riverside Theatre, followed by Melburnians, who'll enjoy the event on Friday, December 11 at Plenary, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. Brisbanites can lock in a Monday session on De