WHAT'S ON Sydney’s ugliest pub is guaranteeing you the best time this weekend

Winter’s nearly over, and it feels like we’re all slowly defrosting and getting back to regular life. Don’t believe me? Just look at the lineup of stuff happening this weekend – it’s proof Sydney is bouncing back from our winter slump.

In fact, I’m going to go as far as to say this is the best weekend we’ve had so far. My tip for Saturday night? Start at Pleasure Club, swing by Headnoiz, and finish (or start the morning) at The Bridge Hotel. A big one – but only if you’re up for it, of course. Some of us are more fragile than others.

Of course, there’s more than just partying and music on the agenda this weekend. Check below to see our top recommendations.

Afterpay Day Deals

If you need an excuse to spend money this weekend, look no further than the massive sales happening for Afterpay Day. Discounts are up to 70% off and start on Thursday. Cue excessive spending that you’ll justify as buying sale and “investment” pieces. For a rundown of who’s participating and just how much they’re slashing prices, you can find more info here.

• When: Thursday 15 to Sunday 18 August
• Where: Online
• How much: Depends on how much therapy you need
• Check it out here.

$35 Bottomless Fajitas

All I’m saying is: Fridays, fajitas, fiestas. That’s it. Thank god SoCal gets it because they’re offering a $35 bottomless fajita deal from 3pm till late every Friday. The Neutral Bay basic-bitch institution lets you have at it for about two hours, which should hopefully be enough time to make yourself feel more than slightly ill. After all, it’s all about value-adding in this economy, right? Maybe wash it down with a margarita. Maybe more than one.

• When: Every Friday
• Where: SoCal, Neutral Bay
• How much: $35
• Check it out here.

Sydney Vintage Kilo Sale

When the vintage market stall is in Marrickville, you know it’s worth your time. None of that sifting through secondhand Zara and Shein crap (I see you @vinnies). This Saturday, the Sydney Vintage Kilo Sale is coming to town, selling clothes literally by the kilo. Weird, I know, but I’m kind of into it. Plus, you’ve got the chance to score some serious goodies for cheap.

• When: Saturday 17 August, from 8am
• Where: 29 Smith Street, Marrickville
• How much: $2.75 per kilo
• Check it out here.

Headnoiz Warehouse Rave

The only other people cool enough to cover this are Resident Advisor. Come on, it’s time we ditched the same three venues you hit every Saturday night. Choose an event that’s actually good. The late-night warehouse rave features Headnoiz label residents like Children of the Mist, DJ Zoik, Telly, and Ascensionist. These events are BYO too, so you’ll spend way less than you would at The Argyle (pls no).

• When: Saturday 17 August, from 9pm
• Where: TBA, Inner West
• How much: $30
• Check it out here.

Brighter Days x Polka x Goo 12-Hour Party

Our pick of parties? The ultimate Sydney kick-ons venue this Saturday night will be The Bridge Hotel, without a doubt. They’re following up last week’s Sutra Sunrise event with another 12-hour music marathon and a three-party takeover. Brighter Days, Polka, and Goo Present are bringing their finest international and local artists, including DJ Koolt, Anah, and Ebbs n Flow. Just thinking about the Sunday recovery for this one makes my head hurt.

• When: Saturday 17 August
• Where: The Bridge Hotel, Rozelle
• How much: $45
• Check it out here.

Ruby Dream’s Artist Residency

We all know that finding free live music gigs in Sydney is like searching for a needle in a haystack. But pat on the back for me – because I’ve outdone myself this time. Not only do you get free live music, but you’ll catch performances by Vera Blue, Sarah Ellen, and Porcelain Alice. They’ll all be hitting the stage at Pleasure Club in Newtown for a week-long residency celebrating Johnnie Walker’s new Black Ruby scotch whisky. Any excuse to celebrate, right? Entry is free, but it’s bound to get packed, so get there early.

• When: Wednesday 14 to Sunday 18 August
• Where: Pleasure Club, Newtown
• How much: Free entry
• Check it out here.

Sydney Cherry Blossom Festival

If you’re after the ultimate Instagram spot, head over to Auburn this month for the Cherry Blossom Festival. The winter blooms will be in full swing in the traditional Japanese garden – perfect for a photo op. But there’s more than just flowers; the festival celebrates Japanese culture, food, and music too. If meeting Hello Kitty live is on your bucket list, now’s your chance.

• When: Saturday 17 to Sunday 25 August
• Where: Auburn Botanic Gardens
• How much: Free for Cumberland residents, otherwise $15
• Check it out here.

LAST CHANCE FOR: LIMBO The Return

There’s nothing like a fire-breathing, gravity-defying spectacle to warm up your winter evenings. LIMBO The Return has you covered until mid-August. With cabaret, live music, dance, and acrobatics all in one, it’s bound to be wildly outrageous. Tickets are reasonably priced, starting from $55. It’s a limited run, so take this as your sign to book.

• When: Until Sunday 18 August
• Where: The Grand Electric, Surry Hills
• How much: From $59
• Check it out here.

Ferragosto

If cannolis, coffee, and calzone are your vibe, you’re in luck. Sydney’s Ferragosto festival is back in Five Dock for its 27th year this month. The grand procession between Lyons and Queens Road will be followed by over 150 stalls selling the best Italian food, wine, and merch in town. 10/10 would recommend.

• When: Sunday 18 August
• Where: Great North Road, Five Dock
• How much: Free entry
• Check it out here.