Zootopia Under the Stars and Night Markets: What’s On in Wollongong Today

Wollongong’s Friday Line-up: Markets, Movies, and Masterpieces

Wollongong is buzzing this Friday, 30 January 2026, with a diverse range of activities spanning from morning markets to late-night comedy and cinema. Whether you are looking for a family-friendly outing at the Botanic Garden or want to explore the local art scene, the city has a full schedule of verified events to keep you entertained. Residents and visitors alike can enjoy the warm summer weather with several outdoor and community-focused gatherings across the CBD and surrounding suburbs.

Morning & Afternoon: Fresh Produce and Local Talent

• Crown St Markets: Start your day at the Crown Street Mall with the local Friday markets. Running from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm, these markets are a staple for the community, featuring farm-fresh produce, handmade gifts, and unique creations from local independent designers. It is the perfect spot to grab a coffee and browse for one-of-a-kind treasures.
• Wollongong Art Prize 2025: For art enthusiasts, the Wollongong Art Gallery is currently hosting the finalists of the 2025 Wollongong Art Prize. This major national competition showcases a variety of mediums from Australian artists. The exhibition is open throughout the day and offers a great way to experience high-caliber contemporary art in the heart of the city.
• Community at the Library: Families with young children can head to the library for the 'Budding Bookworms' session starting at 10:00 am, a great way to foster a love of reading in a social setting. Later in the afternoon, from 3:30 pm to 5:00 pm, the Wollongong Library is also hosting a 'Bring Your Own Book' gems session where readers can gather and share their recent finds.

Evening: Outdoor Cinema and Live Performances

• Sunset Cinema - Zootopia 2: As the sun goes down, the action shifts to the Fig Lawn at the Wollongong Botanic Garden for Sunset Cinema. Tonight’s featured screening is the family favorite Zootopia 2. Doors typically open around 7:00 pm, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the food trucks, licensed bar, and freshly popped popcorn before the movie starts under the stars.
• Crown St Night Markets: If you missed the morning markets, the mall transforms in the evening for the Crown St Night Markets from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm. This evening hub is famous for its vibrant street food scene and live music, showcasing local musicians and providing a lively atmosphere for a Friday night dinner.
• Comedy and Music: For those seeking live entertainment, comedian Brett Blake is performing in Wollongong tonight, bringing his high-energy show to local audiences. Additionally, The Music Lounge is hosting 'Melody Night with Samikshya Adhikari,' offering a soulful musical experience for those looking to unwind with live performances.

With such a variety of events, today is the perfect time to explore everything Wollongong has to offer. Make sure to pack a picnic blanket for the cinema or arrive early at the night markets to secure the best street food spots.