The QVB, set in the heart of the city, is your gateway to Sydney’s vibrant offering. In this new series, Close Quarters, we’re showcasing the best events and must-see experiences happening each month, moments away from our iconic location. Plus, the QVB Car Park offers Early Bird, Hourly, Night and Weekend Parking, with discounts when you book online.

August is a beautiful time to explore Sydney, as the winter chill begins to lift and the city basks in crisp, sunny days. This month, don’t miss the Festival of Dangerous Ideas, taking over Carriageworks with Bad Feminist author Roxanne Gay among the weekend's 87 speakers and artists. Elsewhere, Sydney’s historic waterside precinct The Rocks is hosting free jazz performances every Thursday throughout winter.

With the last of the cold weather creating a moody atmosphere for after-dark activities, it's the ideal moment to venture out in the evenings. Here are our not-to-miss events.

Arj Barker At The State Theatre

Catch Australia’s funniest adopted Californian before he takes his new show, The Mind Field, across the country. Expect an hour of laughs traversing everything from New Zealand's biosecurity laws to the nature of love. If you’re looking for a night of deep thoughts and deep belly laughs under the sparkling chandeliers of the State Theatre, get your tickets here.

It Ends With Us advance screening at George Street Cinema

The movie adaptation of Colleen Hoover's bestselling novel It Ends With Us, a breakout hit on BookTok, has been one of the year's most anticipated films. Starring Blake Lively, the film is set to hit theatres on August 9. However, George Street Cinema is offering fans an exclusive opportunity to see it early with an advanced screening on August 7. Get your tickets here.

Lesley Dumbrell Thrum At The AGNSW

Explore an extraordinary exhibition featuring over 90 works by Sydney artist Lesley Dumbrell, showcasing five decades of her innovative career. This collection highlights her striking geometric abstraction, where vibrant colour and shape take centre stage. It is the first major state art museum survey of the octogenarian's work, offering a unique opportunity to witness the evolution of her art from paintings and works on paper to cutting-edge sculpture. Learn more here.