What’s Open, Trading Hours And Activities

SYDNEY — Sydneysiders and visitors can look forward to a mix of family fun, outdoor adventures and selective shopping during the Easter long weekend 2026, which runs from Good Friday, April 3, to Easter Monday, April 6.

New South Wales treats Good Friday and Easter Sunday as restricted trading days, meaning most major retail stores, supermarkets and shopping centres must close. Easter Saturday operates under normal trading rules, while Easter Monday follows public holiday hours with many businesses open but often on reduced schedules.

Good Friday (April 3) Most large retailers, including Coles, Woolworths and Aldi stores across Sydney, remain closed. Westfield shopping centres and other major malls are shut for the day. Small exempt businesses such as pharmacies, petrol stations, convenience stores and some fruit and vegetable shops may open with limited hours. Many cafes and restaurants in tourist areas stay open, though some apply public holiday surcharges.

Easter Saturday (April 4) Trading returns to normal with no restrictions. Most supermarkets, department stores and shopping centres operate standard hours, typically 9am to 5pm or 6pm at Westfield locations and similar centres. This is often the busiest shopping day of the weekend.

Easter Sunday (April 5) Another restricted day in NSW. Major supermarkets and most Westfield centres close, though a small number of exempt or regional stores may trade. Some smaller independent retailers and tourist-focused outlets remain open. Dining options are widely available, especially near harbourside and beach precincts.

Easter Monday (April 6) Public holiday trading applies with fewer restrictions. Most supermarkets reopen, often from 8am to 8pm with some variations. Shopping centres typically open from around 9:30am or 10am to 4pm or 6pm. Check individual venues, as hours can differ.

Supermarkets and grocery stores

• Coles, Woolworths and Aldi: Closed Good Friday and largely closed Easter Sunday in metro Sydney; open normal or extended hours Easter Saturday and Monday.
• Smaller IGA or independent grocers may have more flexible hours on restricted days. Bottle shops face tighter rules, particularly on Good Friday when alcohol sales are heavily restricted unless served with a meal at licensed venues.

Cafes, restaurants and diningPlenty of options stay open across the long weekend, especially in popular areas such as the CBD, Darling Harbour, Bondi, Manly and Surry Hills. Chains like Bills, Black Star Pastry and many harbourside spots operate with adjusted hours and possible surcharges. Book ahead for popular venues, particularly on Good Friday and Easter Sunday.

Public transport Transport for NSW runs on a Sunday or public holiday timetable for Good Friday, Easter Sunday and Easter Monday, with fewer services than weekdays. Extra trains serve Sydney Olympic Park for the Royal Easter Show. Ferries and light rail generally follow holiday schedules. Travellers should check the Transport NSW app or website for real-time updates and allow extra time.

Major attractions and activities Many of Sydney’s top draws operate throughout the Easter long weekend, though crowds are expected and advance booking is recommended.

• Sydney Royal Easter Show: Runs from Thursday, April 2, to Monday, April 13, at Sydney Olympic Park. Gates open daily around 8:30am. Families can enjoy rides, showbags, animal displays, fireworks and entertainment. This is one of the biggest draws of the period.
• Sydney Family Easter Show at the Entertainment Quarter (Moore Park): Features rides, animals and activities from early April.
• Beaches and outdoors: Bondi, Manly, Coogee and other beaches remain open for swimming, surfing and walks. Coastal tracks and national parks are popular for hiking.
• Iconic experiences: Sydney Harbour Bridge climbs, Opera House tours, Taronga Zoo, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and Luna Park typically open with possible adjusted hours. Harbour cruises and ferry rides offer scenic alternatives.
• Easter egg hunts and family events: Venues such as The Grounds of Alexandria, Centennial Parklands and various gardens host egg hunts and seasonal activities, often on Good Friday through Easter Sunday.
• Markets and other events: Some local markets and Easter-themed fairs operate, though major retail centres are limited on restricted days.

Tips for the weekendPlan grocery shopping for Thursday or Easter Saturday to avoid shortages. Book tickets for major attractions and restaurants early, as demand spikes. Public holiday parking and traffic rules apply, with potential congestion near Olympic Park and harbourside spots. Weather in early April is usually mild and pleasant for outdoor activities, but check forecasts.

Essential services including hospitals, emergency services and selected pharmacies remain available. Many smaller cafes and takeaway outlets provide coffee and meals when big chains close.

The Easter long weekend offers a balance of relaxation and excitement in Sydney. Whether hunting for chocolate eggs at family events, exploring the Royal Easter Show or enjoying a harbourside walk, plenty of options exist despite retail restrictions on Good Friday and Easter Sunday.

For the latest updates, consult official websites for individual stores, attractions and Transport for NSW, as hours can change.