Wild Things: Sydney Opera House Unleashes a World of Family Fun

Wild Things

The Sydney Opera House will come alive with imagination, creativity and play when Wild Things, its first-ever international kids festival, takes over the iconic venue from 26 September to 11 October 2026.

Created for children and grown-ups to enjoy together, Wild Things brings stories, performances, workshops, interactive installations and free outdoor experiences from Australia and around the world to one of Sydney's most recognisable landmarks.

A Free Outdoor Playground at the Opera House

The Forecourt will be transformed into a giant outdoor playground where families can explore, play and discover unexpected performances. Free experiences include SWING, Iwagumi Air Scape, Puzzle and Erth's Wild Rumpus, providing plenty of opportunities for children to become part of the action.

Iwagumi Air Scape by ENESS creates an enormous inflatable rock landscape that visitors can explore. Interactive sounds respond to movement, while after sunset the installation becomes a colourful illuminated experience, with the lights continuing until 10pm on most festival days.

Erth's Wild Rumpus introduces lifelike puppets of wild animals and dinosaurs to the Opera House, with encounters featuring creatures including koalas, elephants, possums and a mosasaur. The free experience runs from 26 September to 6 October.

International Stories and Creative Experiences

Wild Things

Wild Things extends beyond the Forecourt with a program of theatre, circus, workshops and performances designed for different age groups.

Young audiences can experience ZOOOM, Handa's Surprise, Waiting!, The Longest Nights, We Come From Far, Far Away, Volatile Ombré and other productions throughout the festival. The program includes experiences for babies and toddlers through to older children and families.

At the Centre for Creativity, Plasmotopia invites children aged five and over to create digital artworks inspired by the Great Barrier Reef using iPad and Apple Pencil. Their creations are then brought into augmented reality, creating an imaginative underwater world inside the Sydney Opera House.

For babies aged six to 18 months, Be Kind offers an intimate introduction to live performance, combining singing, luminous juggling and opportunities for babies to explore the stage after the performance.

A Creative School Holiday Experience

Wild Things is particularly suited to families looking for things to do in Sydney during the September and October school holidays. The combination of free outdoor activities and ticketed performances allows families to create their own festival day according to children's ages and interests.

Visitors can also take advantage of a ticket discount when booking for groups of four or more. Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

With Sydney Harbour providing the backdrop, Wild Things offers families a chance to discover the Sydney Opera House through play, creativity, international performance and hands-on experiences.

Plan Your Wild Things Visit

Wild Things

Wild Things runs from 26 September to 11 October 2026 at the Sydney Opera House. Families should check the official program for individual performance dates, ages, session times, ticket requirements and free-event details before visiting.

Sydney Opera House

Website: https://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/
Email: bookings@sydneyoperahouse.com
Phone: +61 2 9250 7777
Address: Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sydneyoperahouse/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sydneyoperahouse/?hl=en

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Sojourn Apartment Hotel Ghuznee: Stylish Apartment Accommodation in the Heart of Wellington

Sojourn Apartment Hotel Ghuznee

A Comfortable Wellington Retreat Near Cuba Street

Sojourn Apartment Hotel Ghuznee offers travellers a stylish and practical base in Wellington, combining apartment-style accommodation with the convenience of hotel services.

Located at 75 Ghuznee Street in Te Aro, the property is just 150 metres from the vibrant Cuba Street precinct, placing guests close to restaurants, entertainment and many of Wellington's attractions.

Sojourn Apartment Hotel Ghuznee was one of the exhibitors at MEETINGS 2026, connecting with business events professionals and showcasing its accommodation offering to the New Zealand business events industry.

75 Stylish Apartment Accommodation Options

Sojourn Ghuznee provides 75 accommodation options designed for different types of travellers, from solo visitors seeking an intimate and affordable studio to families, groups and colleagues requiring interconnected two-bedroom apartments.

The property combines modern design with a minimalist approach, creating comfortable spaces for overnight stays, business trips, weekend breaks and longer visits.

Rooms feature air conditioning, contemporary bathrooms, kitchenettes, comfortable beds, free Wi-Fi and Smart TVs. Selected accommodation also provides espresso machines and access to laundry facilities.

Apartment Comfort for Business and Leisure Travellers

Sojourn Apartment Hotel Ghuznee

For business travellers visiting Wellington, apartment-style accommodation provides useful flexibility. Kitchenette facilities allow guests to prepare simple meals and refreshments, while comfortable living spaces provide an alternative to a traditional hotel room.

For families and groups, the interconnected two-bedroom apartments can provide additional space while allowing travellers to stay together. The property also offers off-site parking, subject to conditions.

A Convenient Location for Exploring Wellington

The location in Wellington's Te Aro district makes Sojourn Ghuznee particularly convenient for travellers wanting to explore the city.

Cuba Street is nearby, while Wellington attractions including Te Papa, the waterfront and Weta Workshop are within easy reach of the hotel. Sojourn describes its Ghuznee property as a calm retreat close to the energy of central Wellington.

The combination of a central location, apartment facilities and hotel service makes Sojourn Ghuznee suitable for leisure travellers, corporate visitors and people attending events in Wellington.

A Business Events Accommodation Choice

Sojourn Apartment Hotel Ghuznee

As part of the Business Events Industry Aotearoa supplier network, Sojourn Apartment Hotel Ghuznee is listed by BEIA as a Wellington accommodation provider. It was also included among the exhibitors at MEETINGS 2026.

For business events organisers and corporate travel planners, its central Wellington location and range of apartment-style accommodation provide an option for delegates seeking more flexibility than a conventional hotel room.

Sojourn Apartment Hotel Ghuznee

Contact Person: Saurabh Doshi
Website: https://sojournhotels.co.nz/
Email: ghuznee@sojournhotels.co.nz
Phone: 04 499 4500
Address: 75 Ghuznee Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011, New Zealand
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sojournhotels/home/

For more travel, tourism and business events news from around the world, visit the daily online edition of The Holiday and Travel Magazine at https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/.

Los Angeles History 1900 to 1950: The City That Became the Entertainment Capital of the World

Angels Flight Railway.  Photo: Yuri Hasegawa

Between 1900 and 1950, Los Angeles underwent one of the most remarkable transformations in American history. From a rapidly growing regional city, Los Angeles developed into a global centre for film, culture, transport, sport, architecture and entertainment.

The first half of the twentieth century saw the arrival of Hollywood, the expansion of the Port of Los Angeles, the construction of iconic landmarks and the city's emergence as a major international destination.

1900 to 1913: A City on the Move

In 1900, Los Angeles had a population of 102,479 and ranked 36th among American cities. The new century brought rapid change. Angels Flight opened in 1901, carrying passengers up Bunker Hill, while the first Rose Bowl Game was played in 1902.

Japanese immigration contributed to the city's growing multicultural character, with Fugetsu-Do opening in Little Tokyo in 1903. In 1905, developer Abbot Kinney created canals beside the coast, establishing Venice of America.

The first fossils were excavated at the La Brea Tar Pits in 1906, while the Los Angeles Auto Show began in 1907.

In 1910, Hollywood voted to join Los Angeles, D.W. Griffith filmed in the city and the population had reached 319,198. By 1913, the Los Angeles Aqueduct was completed, bringing water from the Owens Valley, while the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County opened.

1914 to 1924: Hollywood Takes Centre Stage

"Dueling Dinos" at the Natural History Museum
Photo: Yuri Hasegawa

The next decade established Los Angeles as a centre of the motion picture industry. Beverly Hills became an independent city in 1914, while Universal Film Manufacturing Company opened near Cahuenga Pass in 1915.

Grand Central Market opened in 1917, and Frank Lloyd Wright designed Hollyhock House. Warner Bros. Studios followed in 1918, while the Los Angeles Philharmonic and UCLA were founded in 1919.

The 1920s brought even greater cultural fame. The Hollywood Bowl began presenting concerts in 1922, Grauman's Egyptian Theatre opened and the Rose Bowl Stadium was built. The Hollywood Sign appeared in 1923 as an advertisement for the Hollywoodland development.

By 1924, Los Angeles had passed the one-million population mark.

1925 to 1939: Icons of Los Angeles

Grand Central Market, Photo: GCM

Los Angeles continued developing its distinctive identity. The Central Library opened in 1925, while U.S. Highway 66 was designated in 1926, connecting Los Angeles with Chicago.

Grauman's Chinese Theatre opened in 1927, followed by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. The first Academy Awards ceremony took place at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel in 1928, the same year Los Angeles City Hall opened.

UCLA opened its Westwood campus in 1929. The following year, Los Angeles International Airport opened, while Olvera Street, the Greek Theatre and the Hollywood Pantages Theatre also emerged as important attractions.

Los Angeles hosted the 1932 Olympic Games, the Original Farmers Market opened in 1934 and Griffith Observatory opened in 1935. In 1939, Union Station opened, creating one of the city's most distinctive architectural landmarks.

1940 to 1950: A Global City Emerges

the first known music event at the Hollywood Bowl, ca.1920

The 1940s brought further transformation. The Arroyo Seco Parkway opened in 1940 as America's first controlled limited-access highway, helping establish the freeway culture for which Southern California would become famous.

During the Second World War, the Port of Los Angeles became a major shipbuilding centre and Los Angeles developed into a crucial manufacturing and aerospace hub. The Pacific Electric Railway reached its peak ridership in 1944.

Post-war Los Angeles continued expanding its influence. The Los Angeles Rams arrived in 1946, In-N-Out Burger opened in 1948 and by 1950 the city's population had reached 1,970,358, making Los Angeles the fourth-largest city in the United States.

Discover the Los Angeles of History

Hollywood Sign | Photo: Yuri Hasegawa

For today's traveller, exploring Los Angeles is an opportunity to walk through this extraordinary history. From Hollywood's legendary theatres and studios to Union Station, Griffith Observatory, the La Brea Tar Pits and the city's historic neighbourhoods, reminders of this transformative era remain throughout the metropolis.

The years from 1900 to 1950 created much of the Los Angeles identity recognised around the world today: a city where entertainment, culture, innovation, transport and diversity continue to shape an ever-changing destination.

Discover Los Angeles

Website: www.discoverlosangeles.com
Email: info@discoverlosangeles.com
Phone: +1 213 624 7300
Address: 633 West 5th Street, Los Angeles, California 90071, USA

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

LATAM Travel Misconceptions: Discover the Real Latin America

Colombia

Looking Beyond the Headlines

For many travellers, the first impression of Latin America may come from television news, social media or stories about backpacking adventures from decades ago. These impressions can create misconceptions about what it is really like to travel through this remarkable part of the world.

The reality is that Latin America is enormously diverse, with more than 20 countries offering different cultures, landscapes, cuisines, cities and travel experiences. A holiday in Argentina can be completely different from a journey through Colombia, Peru, Brazil, Chile or Costa Rica.

Is Latin America Safe for Tourists?

Safety is one of the most common concerns for first-time visitors. News reports about crime, political events or drug cartels can sometimes create an impression that the entire region is unsafe for tourists.

In reality, conditions vary considerably between countries and destinations. Like travelling in any major international city, visitors should take sensible precautions against opportunistic theft, particularly in crowded tourist areas and on public transport.

Researching the destination before departure, following local advice, securing valuables and choosing reputable accommodation and transport can all contribute to a more enjoyable journey.

Latin America Is Much More Than Beaches

Colombia

Another misconception is that Latin America is primarily a destination for beach holidays and tropical resorts. Travellers who are not interested in spending their entire holiday beside the sea may be surprised by the extraordinary range of alternatives.

Visitors can trek through the Andes, explore ancient archaeological sites, experience Amazon rainforest adventures, discover colonial cities, visit vineyards, explore deserts and glaciers, encounter extraordinary wildlife or experience the vibrant culture of some of the world's most exciting cities.

From mountains and rainforests to deserts, islands and historic towns, Latin America offers experiences for almost every type of traveller.

Why Can a Luxury Holiday Cost So Much?

Some visitors are surprised when they discover the price of luxury travel in Latin America. A high-end Latin American holiday can sometimes cost as much as a luxury European journey or African safari.

Remote luxury lodges and boutique hotels can be particularly expensive because transporting supplies, employing staff and maintaining sophisticated facilities in mountains, deserts, rainforests and other isolated locations can be challenging.

Limited numbers of premium rooms in sought-after destinations can also mean that travellers are competing for a relatively small supply of luxury accommodation.

The Joy of Discovering Somewhere Different

Colombia

Travelling to a familiar destination can feel reassuring because friends and family may already have visited. Latin America can initially seem less familiar, which is precisely what makes discovering it so rewarding.

Travellers can experience new flavours, languages, traditions, landscapes and ways of life while creating memories that are very different from a conventional European holiday.

The greatest misconception may simply be that Latin America can be understood from a headline or a stereotype. The region is far too diverse for that.

A World of Travel Experiences

For tourists prepared to explore beyond the familiar, Latin America can provide extraordinary journeys. Whether the goal is adventure, culture, wildlife, food, history, relaxation or luxury, there are destinations capable of creating memorable experiences.

Rather than viewing Latin America as one destination, travellers can discover a collection of remarkably different countries and regions, each offering its own reasons to visit.

Travel Information

Travellers should check the official tourism website of their chosen Latin American destination before travelling for current information about attractions, entry requirements, local conditions and travel advice.

Latin America Tourism

Website: https://southamericatourism.com/destination/

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

China and Myanmar Unearth Bagan’s Ancient Secrets in New Thatbyinnyu Temple Excavations

China-Myanmar joint excavation research

Archaeologists from China and Myanmar are working together on new excavations around the historic Thatbyinnyu Temple in Bagan, uncovering clues that are helping researchers better understand one of Myanmar’s most important ancient cultural landscapes.

The joint archaeological project is part of continuing China-Myanmar cooperation to restore, conserve and study the heritage of the Bagan Ancient Cultural Heritage Area.

New Excavations Reveal Bagan’s Past

The latest China-Myanmar archaeological excavations began in July 2026 in areas to the south-west, south and west of Thatbyinnyu Temple.

Archaeologists are concentrating on the temple’s enclosure wall and entrance gate, with discoveries already providing new information about the original design and layout of the historic temple complex.

Excavations have revealed sections of brick walls, brick structures, sandstone foundations, brick flooring and roof tiles.

Together, these archaeological remains are helping researchers piece together how the temple precinct was originally arranged and how its buildings and surrounding structures were constructed.

Building on Earlier Archaeological Research

China-Myanmar joint excavation research

The current excavation programme builds on archaeological investigations undertaken in 2017 and 2023.

Researchers are examining the newly uncovered remains alongside earlier discoveries to develop a clearer understanding of the architectural history of Thatbyinnyu Temple.

Particular attention is being given to the enclosure walls, courtyard walls and possible additional entrance gates surrounding the temple.

The work demonstrates how archaeological research can contribute to the long-term conservation of historic monuments by documenting structures and architectural features before restoration work proceeds.

Restoring the Great Thatbyinnyu Temple

China and Myanmar have been cooperating on the restoration and conservation of the Great Thatbyinnyu Temple following damage caused by the 2016 earthquake.

The two countries signed a memorandum of minutes in 2017 and a memorandum of understanding in 2022 covering restoration and conservation activities.

Under the cooperation programme, Chinese and Myanmar experts are also jointly studying the temple’s surviving architectural remains.

The archaeological work is therefore closely connected with the broader effort to protect the temple and preserve Bagan’s cultural heritage for future generations.

Discovering Bagan’s Ancient Cultural Heritage

Great Thatbyinnyu Temple

Bagan is renowned for its extraordinary landscape of ancient Buddhist temples, pagodas and monuments spread across the central Myanmar plains.

The continuing excavation at Thatbyinnyu Temple offers another opportunity to discover more about the construction, development and organisation of the historic Bagan temple complex.

For visitors interested in archaeology, history, architecture and cultural tourism, the discoveries add another layer to the story of Bagan.

As China-Myanmar archaeological cooperation continues, further excavations could reveal additional evidence about the temple’s original form and the wider development of this remarkable ancient cultural heritage area.

Myanmar Ministry of Religious Affairs and Culture – Department of Archaeology and National Museum
Website: https://www.moculture.gov.mm/
Address: Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar

Bagan Ancient Cultural Heritage Area

Website: https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1588/

Location: Bagan, Nyaung-U Township, Mandalay Region, Myanmar

National Cultural Heritage Administration of China
Website: http://www.ncha.gov.cn/
Address: Beijing, China

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

HOST A DINNER WITH AUCKLAND’S HARBOUR FRONT AND CENTRE

Shed 10 

Few destinations can make a business event feel as memorable as Auckland, where the Waitematā Harbour provides a spectacular backdrop for evening celebrations. From historic wharves and waterfront restaurants to marina-side venues, Auckland offers distinctive settings for gala dinners, conference functions, awards nights and corporate events.

For event planners seeking a venue with a strong sense of place, these waterfront locations combine practical facilities with impressive harbour views and the unmistakable atmosphere of Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland.

Shed 10: Celebrate Auckland’s Maritime Heritage

Located on Queens Wharf, Shed 10 combines Auckland’s maritime history with a spacious waterfront setting. The former cargo shed retains its distinctive industrial character while providing an expansive space for major business events.

With capacity for up to 750 guests for a banquet and 1,000 for a cocktail event, Shed 10 is suited to large gala dinners, awards evenings and major conference celebrations.

The Maritime Room: Dining Beside Viaduct Harbour

The Maritime Room

For a more intimate waterfront experience, The Maritime Room overlooks Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour and features a sheltered deck where guests can gather for pre-dinner drinks.

Its polished interiors and waterfront location create an elegant environment for conference dinners, client entertaining and networking events. The venue can accommodate up to 260 guests for a banquet and 400 for cocktails.

Okahu Functions & Events: Harbour Views to Rangitoto

Okahu Functions & Events

Okahu Functions & Events provides sweeping views across the Waitematā Harbour towards the Auckland skyline and Rangitoto Island.

Located a short drive from central Auckland, the venue offers flexible event spaces for gala dinners, receptions and corporate hospitality. Up to 220 guests can be seated for a banquet, while cocktail events can accommodate up to 350 guests.

Orakei Bay: Where City Meets Nature

Ōrākei

Set beside the Ōrākei Basin, Orakei Bay provides a distinctive combination of water, greenery and city accessibility.

Light-filled spaces can be adapted for different event formats, allowing organisers to move from outdoor drinks to a formal seated dinner. The venue accommodates up to 200 guests for a banquet and 400 for cocktails.

Akarana Marine Sports Centre: Waterfront Events

Akarana Marine Sports Centre

At Akarana Marine Sports Centre, the harbour is part of the experience, with waterfront rooms and balconies overlooking Auckland’s eastern bays.

Just a short drive from the city centre, the venue provides flexibility between indoor and outdoor areas and can host banquet events for up to 200 guests or cocktail functions for up to 350.

Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron: Auckland’s Sailing Spirit

Few venues capture Auckland’s sailing culture like the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron at Westhaven.

Overlooking the marina and Waitematā Harbour, the Squadron offers several event spaces suitable for executive dinners, awards nights and gala functions. Capacity reaches 280 guests for a banquet and 400 for cocktails.

Make the Harbour Part of the Event

A waterfront dinner gives delegates more than a meal. Auckland’s harbour venues allow organisers to incorporate spectacular views, maritime heritage and the city’s sailing culture into the evening programme.

Whether planning a large conference gala, incentive dinner, networking function or corporate celebration, choosing a waterfront venue can make the Auckland destination itself part of the experience.

Auckland Convention Bureau

Okahu Functions & Events

Website: https://aucklandconventionbureau.com/
Email: info@aucklandnz.com
Phone: +64 9 365 0555
Address: Auckland, New Zealand

The Maritime Room

Website: https://www.maritimeroom.co.nz/
Phone: +64 9 379 8800
Address: 2-8 Quay Street, Auckland, New Zealand

Ōrākei Basin

Okahu Functions & Events

Website: https://www.okahubay.com/
Phone: +64 9 630 2233
Address: 56 Tamaki Drive, Orakei, Auckland, New Zealand

Orakei Bay

Website: https://www.orakeibay.co.nz/
Address: Orakei, Auckland, New Zealand

Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron

Website: https://rnzys.org.nz/
Phone: +64 9 360 6800
Address: 181 Westhaven Drive, Westhaven, Auckland, New Zealand

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Treehouse Lodge Peru: Sleep Among the Treetops of the Amazon

Treehouse Lodge Peru

For travellers searching for a truly unique hotel in Peru, Treehouse Lodge offers an experience that is far removed from an ordinary rainforest holiday. Located deep in the Peruvian Amazon near Iquitos, the lodge allows guests to sleep high above the jungle floor, surrounded by the sights, sounds and wildlife of one of the world's great natural environments.

This remarkable all-inclusive Amazon rainforest lodge is built around the idea of experiencing the jungle from above, with individual treehouses connected by elevated walkways through the rainforest canopy.

A Hotel High Above the Jungle

Treehouse Lodge Peru

Treehouse Lodge sits on the Yarapa River at the confluence of the Yarapa and Cumaceba rivers, near the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve. Its treehouses provide an unusual combination of adventure, comfort and immersion in nature.

Depending on the accommodation selected, guests can stay among the rainforest canopy with views of the surrounding jungle or river. Some treehouses are positioned several metres above the forest floor, providing a fascinating perspective over the Amazon.

Rather than waking to traffic or city noise, guests may hear birds calling through the canopy and, depending on conditions and location, spot wildlife moving through the surrounding trees.

The lodge has no Wi-Fi or mobile phone service, making it an ideal escape for travellers wanting to disconnect from everyday life and reconnect with nature.

An All-Inclusive Amazon Experience

Treehouse Lodge Peru

Treehouse Lodge makes exploring the rainforest straightforward by including excursions in its accommodation experience. Guests can choose from a range of activities designed to reveal different aspects of the Amazon environment.

Experiences can include wildlife excursions, canoe trips, kayaking, jungle exploration, village visits, fishing and nighttime searches for wildlife such as caimans.

A highlight is the elevated canopy experience, where raised walkways provide another perspective of the rainforest. The lodge currently promotes 18 included excursions, allowing guests to tailor their Amazon adventure to their interests.

The all-inclusive experience also includes transportation between Iquitos Airport and the lodge, three meals each day, bottled water and juice at breakfast, and an English- or Spanish-speaking guide.

Getting to Treehouse Lodge

Reaching this unusual Amazon rainforest hotel is part of the adventure. Travellers first fly to Iquitos, a city in the Peruvian Amazon that has no road connection to the outside world.

Treehouse Lodge then arranges the approximately two-and-a-half-hour transfer from Iquitos to the property, combining road and private river transport. Airport transfers are scheduled around arriving flights, so travellers should plan their flight carefully.

Explore Iquitos Before or After Your Stay

Treehouse Lodge Peru

A stay at Treehouse Lodge can easily be combined with time in Iquitos.

The city's historic Plaza de Armas is a good starting point for exploring its distinctive architecture and atmosphere. The famous Iron House, an unusual prefabricated iron building associated with the city's rubber boom, is another fascinating attraction.

Visitors can also enjoy Amazonian cuisine in Iquitos and explore the waterfront before heading deeper into the rainforest.

When to Visit Treehouse Lodge

June to October is an excellent period for travellers planning an Amazon adventure, although the rainforest offers different experiences throughout the year.

For anyone seeking a genuinely unique hotel stay, Treehouse Lodge combines treetop accommodation, wildlife encounters, river adventures and the tranquillity of the Amazon into an experience that is difficult to replicate anywhere else.

Treehouse Lodge

Website: www.treehouselodge.com
Email: bookings@treehouselodge.com
Phone: +1 801 210 9350
Address: Yarapa River Nauta, Loreto PE16300, Peru.

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Art & About Sydney 2026 Turns Oxford Street into a Free Celebration of Creativity

Art & About Sydney 2026

Sydney’s famous Oxford Street precinct will become a colourful cultural playground when Art & About Sydney 2026 takes place from Friday 23 to Sunday 25 October. Presented by the City of Sydney, the three-day program brings art, performance, dance, theatre, installations and community participation together across Oxford Street, Taylor Square and Darlinghurst.

Designed as a walkable cultural experience, Art & About Sydney invites visitors to discover creative works and performances within a compact precinct, with many activities completely free to attend. The 2026 program continues the event’s focus on temporarily reimagining Sydney’s public spaces through art and creativity.

A Disco Opening Night on Oxford Street

Art & About Sydney opens on Friday 23 October with a five-hour disco-themed celebration from 5pm to 10pm. The Progress Pride Crossing will become an outdoor dancefloor featuring DJs, live performances, drag artists, roving entertainment and interactive dance workshops.

The opening night program includes a waacking showcase by Dancekool, the Disco Never Dies workshop, live disco performances from Kaleidoscope Dreams and DJs including DJ Sheeba, DJ Adam Thomas and Aunty Johnny. Visitors can also encounter roller skaters, illuminated performers, giant bubbles and interactive activities.

Local businesses will also participate with special offers, outdoor dining and pop-up activations, adding to the atmosphere across Oxford Street and Taylor Square.

Art, Light, Theatre and Interactive Experiences

Art & About Sydney 2026

Beyond the opening celebration, Art & About Sydney 2026 presents a diverse collection of experiences designed to encourage audiences to explore the precinct.

At Taylor Square, Luminous Passage by Thi Nguyen with Alana Fairchild uses interactive light to respond to visitors as they move through the installation, creating an evolving artwork shaped by the presence of the crowd.

At East Sydney Community and Arts Centre, Fuxico by Keila Terencio combines video, installation, handmade craft and local storytelling, while Ripples of Connection by Bindi Bindi Art presents contemporary Aboriginal artworks created by Wiradjuri artist Tay-la Shearley and Ngemba artist Chloe Eastwood.

Visitors can also discover theatre and performance, including Bavaria by Loose Canon Arts, which combines cabaret, opera, poetry and physical comedy in a contemporary reimagining of the Bluebeard story.

A Weekend to Explore Sydney Creatively

Art & About Sydney provides an opportunity to experience Darlinghurst and Oxford Street from a different perspective. Instead of visiting one gallery or theatre, audiences can walk between venues, public spaces and installations while discovering different forms of contemporary creativity.

Other program highlights include The Golden Mile Grotto, an immersive installation combining art, play and participation, and Crazing by Karli Evans, a theatrical work exploring generations of women’s stories.

With its combination of free events, public art, live entertainment and participatory experiences, Art & About Sydney 2026 offers visitors a reason to spend a weekend exploring one of Sydney’s best-known cultural precincts.

Plan Your Art & About Sydney Visit

Art & About Sydney 2026

Art & About Sydney 2026 runs from Friday 23 October to Sunday 25 October, with individual activities operating at different times and locations. Visitors should check the official program before travelling because some performances and workshops have specific session times.

Art & About Sydney / City of Sydney

Website: City of Sydney – Art & About Sydney
Email: artandabout@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au
Phone: 02 9265 9333
Address: Sydney Town Hall, 483 George Street, Sydney NSW 2000
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cityofsydney/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artandaboutsyd/

For the latest 2026 program and event details, visit the City of Sydney’s official What’s On listings.

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Standout Design Creates Memorable Exhibition Experiences Across New Zealand

Standout Design

Turning Exhibition Ideas into Memorable Experiences

Standout Design is helping businesses and organisations make a lasting impression through creative exhibition stands, brand activations, seasonal displays and experiential environments across New Zealand.

The Auckland-based exhibition and event design company was one of the exhibitors at MEETINGS 2026, where it connected with business events professionals, venues, tourism operators and event organisers while showcasing its approach to exhibition design, brand experiences and event displays.

With more than 20 years of experience, Standout Design has developed a reputation for bringing creative concepts to life and creating spaces that encourage people to stop, engage, interact and remember a brand.

Creative Exhibition Stands Designed to Stand Out

A successful exhibition stand needs to do more than display a company name. It needs to attract attention, encourage conversation and create an experience visitors remember.

Standout Design works with clients to transform exhibition stand ideas into tangible environments that combine creativity with practical functionality. Its work includes professional, high-end display stands, brand activations, seasonal displays and portable branding solutions.

The company describes its approach as creating displays and experiences that make people smile, spark conversations and leave a lasting impression.

From Concept to Installation

Standout Design

Standout Design provides an end-to-end exhibition service, taking care of the creative and practical elements involved in delivering a successful display.

Its services include ideation, design, project management, production, distribution and installation. This integrated approach allows businesses to work with one team from the initial concept through to the finished exhibition stand.

The company also uses modular stand-building equipment and LED technology as part of its exhibition and experiential design capabilities.

Exhibition Design Across New Zealand

Whether an event is being held in Auckland, elsewhere in New Zealand or overseas, Standout Design brings together creative vision and functional requirements to produce engaging exhibition environments.

Its experience extends across exhibitions, trade shows, brand activations, seasonal displays and other live experiences. The team works with businesses seeking custom exhibition stands and memorable brand environments that help them connect with their audiences.

Standout Design's work at MEETINGS 2026 highlighted the important role that creative exhibition design can play within New Zealand's business events industry.

A Team Focused on Making Brands Memorable

Standout Design

Founded by Susan Tapper in 1997, Standout Design has grown into a full-service experiential agency working across New Zealand and the Pacific. Its team includes exhibition designers, project managers, installation specialists and creative professionals.

For organisations planning an exhibition, conference, trade show or brand activation, Standout Design offers a complete pathway from the first creative idea to a finished space designed to attract attention and create meaningful visitor engagement.

Standout Design

Contact Person: Joe Downing, Sales Manager
Website: Standout Design
Email: joe@standoutdesign.co.nz
Phone: 09 302 8792
Mobile: 027 597 0090
Address: 55–57 Patiki Road, Rosebank, Auckland 1026, New Zealand
LinkedIn: Standout Design on LinkedIn

For more travel, tourism and business events news from around the world, visit the daily online edition of The Holiday and Travel Magazine at https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/.

The Best of Universal Studios Hollywood: 10 Must-See Attractions for an Unforgettable Los Angeles Visit

Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift

Universal Studios Hollywood is one of Los Angeles’ most exciting attractions, combining the magic of a working movie studio with thrilling theme park entertainment. From famous film sets and immersive themed lands to spectacular rides, families, couples and movie fans can enjoy a full day of entertainment.

Located in Los Angeles, Universal Studios Hollywood is the only authentic working movie studio and theme park of its kind, making it a distinctive attraction for visitors exploring Southern California.

Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift

One of the newest attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood is Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift, which opens on 16 September 2026.

The first high-speed outdoor roller coaster at Universal Studios Hollywood reaches speeds of up to 72 miles per hour and delivers forces of up to 3.6 Gs across 4,100 feet of aerial track.

The ride features an inverted dive loop, twisted pretzel loop and other high-speed elements. Vehicles inspired by the Fast & Furious films include a Dodge Charger, Mazda RX-7, Nissan Skyline GT-R and Toyota Supra.

The World-Famous Studio Tour

The World-Famous Studio Tour

The Studio Tour remains one of the signature experiences at Universal Studios Hollywood. Visitors can go behind the scenes of a real working movie studio and discover how film and television productions are created.

The experience combines studio history, filmmaking insights and exciting encounters that bring Hollywood entertainment to life.

Super Nintendo World

Super Nintendo World

Super Nintendo World transports visitors into the colourful world of Nintendo, providing an immersive experience for families and gaming fans.

The themed land features interactive experiences, distinctive environments and attractions inspired by popular Nintendo characters and games.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Visitors can step into the magical world of Harry Potter at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. The highly themed environment recreates the atmosphere of the Harry Potter universe with detailed architecture, entertainment and attractions. Visitors can also enjoy the area’s shops, dining and magical details, making it an immersive experience for both Harry Potter fans and first-time visitors.

Jurassic World – The Ride

Jurassic World - The Ride water drop

For dinosaur enthusiasts, Jurassic World – The Ride delivers an action-packed adventure inspired by the Jurassic World films. Guests encounter dinosaurs and spectacular effects before embarking on an exciting water-based ride.

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem

Families can join Gru, the Minions and their friends for an entertaining adventure at Despicable Me Minion Mayhem. The attraction combines humour, animation and immersive motion-based entertainment.

The Simpsons Ride

The Simpsons Ride

Springfield comes to life at The Simpsons Ride, where visitors join Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie in a colourful and humorous adventure inspired by the long-running animated series. The attraction combines exciting motion, impressive visual effects and plenty of classic Simpsons humour, making it an entertaining experience for fans of the iconic animated family.

Transformers: The Ride-3D

Transformers fans can join the Autobots in a high-energy 3D adventure featuring impressive visual effects, action and motion simulation.

WaterWorld

WaterWorld is one of the park’s major live-action attractions, combining stunts, explosions, special effects, water action and storytelling in a spectacular outdoor performance.

Hollywood Entertainment for All Ages

Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift

With its combination of movie magic, themed attractions, live entertainment and high-speed rides, Universal Studios Hollywood offers something for a wide range of visitors.

Whether exploring Los Angeles for the first time or returning to experience the newest attractions, a visit to Universal Studios Hollywood provides an opportunity to experience the entertainment industry in an attraction where Hollywood filmmaking and theme park excitement meet.

Universal Studios Hollywood

Website: https://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/web/en/us
Tickets: https://store.universalstudioshollywood.com/en/us/store/c/uh_ice_default_pb_tickets
Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, California 91608, USA
Phone: +1 800 864 8377
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/universalstudioshollywood/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/universalstudioshollywood/

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