Principle Government Partner

Celebrating 50 years of support for Sydney Festival.

Sydney Festival is turning 50 and the City of Sydney is proud to have been a supporter since its inception and to continue as its principal government partner in this landmark year. As one of the city’s signature summer events, the festival brings world-class creativity to our streets, stages and communities.

Our support reflects the ambitions of our cultural strategy 2025 – 2035: to retain, rebuild and reimagine Sydney’s cultural life. Through partnerships such as Sydney Festival, we champion diversity, inclusion and innovation, creating opportunities for artists and audiences to connect in meaningful ways.

In 2026, we’re the program partner for three extraordinary works and one exciting new initiative:

• Mama Does Derby – a fierce and funny celebration of queer identity and community sport
• Garrigarang Badu – a powerful First Nations-led performance honouring Country and culture on Sydney’s foreshore
• EXXY – a bold, high-energy dance work exploring identity and resilience
• Festival Commons – a dynamic hub for conversation, collaboration and creative exchange.

Together, these events showcase the creativity and spirit that make Sydney a global cultural city.