Classic Cinema Under the Stars and Vibrant CBD Markets This Friday

Friday Fun in the Heart of the City

Today, Friday, 6 March 2026, the Wollongong CBD is the place to be for locals and visitors alike. Starting from early morning, the Crown Street Mall transforms into a bustling marketplace. The weekly Crown Street Markets run from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm, offering a diverse array of fresh produce, unique handmade crafts, and mouth-watering street food. Whether you are looking for local honey, vegan-friendly treats, or a one-of-a-kind gift from a local artisan, this is the perfect way to spend your morning in the fresh air.

In addition to the main mall markets, the Friday Foragers Market is also operating today. This event focuses on fresh, local, and handmade goods, providing a true farm-to-table experience right in the middle of the city. It is an ideal opportunity to stock up on weekend supplies while supporting the Illawarra’s hardworking growers and makers.

Art and Culture Across the City

For art lovers, today marks the opening of several significant exhibitions. The Wollongong Art Gallery presents the opening of "Winter Has Gone" in its Community Gallery. This exhibition, curated on behalf of the Illawarra Association for the Visual Arts (IAVA), explores evocative themes of transition, resilience, and renewal as the stark season gives way to new growth. It is a fantastic opportunity to see works from premier local contemporary artists in a reflective setting.

Nearby, the Project Contemporary Artspace is hosting "Brilliance," an exhibition celebrating 25 years of International Women’s Day art. This show features the work of 35 talented women artists from across the region, spotlighting creativity and resilience. If you are looking for community engagement, the City of Wollongong is also hosting a "Let's talk playtime" pop-up at the Otford Road Playground from 3:30 pm to 5:00 pm, where residents can share feedback on local play space improvements.

Evening Entertainment and Cinema

As the sun begins to set, the energy shifts toward the Wollongong Botanic Garden for the popular Sunset Cinema. Tonight, the big screen will feature the beloved family classic, The Lion King. Gates open at 7:00 pm, allowing plenty of time to find a spot on the lawn with a bean bag or a picnic blanket. Moviegoers can enjoy the outdoors with fresh popcorn or treats from the licensed Sunset Bar before the film begins at last light.

If you prefer a livelier night out, the Crown Street Night Markets continue the festive atmosphere from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm, featuring live music and diverse food stalls. For those seeking high-energy live music, the Gold Coast heavy hitters Hammers are performing at La La La's tonight as part of their "Death Wobbles" album tour, bringing big riffs and a signature ratbag mentality to the Wollongong stage.