Beddy Rays Live and Sunset Cinema: Your Wollongong Guide for Thursday, January 29

Discover the Best of Wollongong Today

It is a vibrant Thursday in the Illawarra, and January 29, 2026, is packed with diverse activities ranging from high-energy rock concerts to quiet gallery explorations. Whether you are looking to entertain the kids during the final days of the school holidays or seeking a night of live music by the ocean, Wollongong has plenty to offer today.

Live Music: Beddy Rays at La La La's

For those looking to kick off the weekend early, the standout event this evening is the Beddy Rays concert at La La La's on Globe Lane. The popular Australian rock outfit brings their "Do What Ya Wanna" regional tour to the Gong, promising a night of high-octane energy and surf-rock anthems. Doors are expected to open around 7:30 PM, making it the perfect centerpiece for a night out in the CBD. This venue is known for its intimate atmosphere, so prepare for a packed house and local support acts to start the night.

Culture and Creativity: Wollongong Art Gallery

If you prefer a more refined pace, today is an excellent opportunity to visit the Wollongong Art Gallery on Burelli Street. The gallery is currently hosting the Wollongong Art Prize, a major national biennial exhibition. Visitors can explore the works of finalists from across Australia, showcasing a broad range of mediums and contemporary themes. Additionally, today is the final chance to catch the Voices of Insight photographic exhibition, which highlights local perspectives and storytelling through the lens. The gallery is free to enter and open from 10:00 AM.

Youth Events: Dungeons & Dragons Crawl

Wollongong Youth Services is hosting a special treat for local gamers today. The Dungeons & Dragons Crawl is taking place at 85 Burelli Street from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Aimed at youth aged 12 to 18, this session is perfect for both experienced players and those new to the tabletop RPG world. It is a fantastic community-building event designed to foster creativity and teamwork in a social environment.

Evening Entertainment: Cinema and Acoustic Sets

As the sun begins to set, there are several ways to enjoy the summer evening:

• Sunset Cinema: Enjoy a movie under the stars at the Wollongong Botanic Garden. Today's screening offers a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with local food vendors and the beautiful backdrop of the Illawarra Escarpment.
• Live Music at Steamers: If you are looking for dinner with a view, Steamers Bar and Grill on Marine Drive hosts their weekly live acoustic session starting at 6:00 PM. It is a great spot to catch local talent while enjoying a meal overlooking the lighthouse.

With such a variety of events, from the intensity of La La La's to the cinematic charm of the Botanic Gardens, there is no shortage of ways to spend your Thursday in Wollongong.