Youth Week is an opportunity for young people to express their ideas and views, act on issues that affect their lives, and create and enjoy activities and events.

This year it runs from 11 to 21 April and young people aged 12 to 24 are invited to get involved.

Here are some great events to check out in our area:

Free basketball at Perry Park

Thursday 11 April from 3pm to 6pm

Enjoy free entry to Perry Park recreation centre for a casual game of basketball. This event is for people aged 12 to 18 years.

Youth monthly community barbecue

Thursday 11 April from 3.30pm to 5.30pm

Get down to Redfern Community Centre and enjoy a free feed.

Centre 360 Youth Week event

Thursday 11 April from 4pm to 6pm

Make your way to Centre 360 hall in Paddington for an afternoon of interactive games, art and creativity spaces, prizes, live music and great food.

You’ll also get to listen to a panel discussion led by young people.

Youth Express

Friday 12 April from 1pm to 5pm

Head to Redfern Community Centre and enjoy an afternoon of free music, food and skate clinic and deck art sessions, the rise up silent disco and future fit workshops. Youth network service hubs will also be there on the day to answer any questions.

Created by young people for young people, Youth Express showcases the talents of local emerging performers and connects young people living, studying and working in our area.

Makerspace workshop: 3D print club 12-16 years

Monday 15 April from 10.30am to 1.30pm

Learn to create and print your very own 3D design. Experienced facilitators will be on hand to show you the ropes and discuss your ideas.

Bring an idea along on the day or brainstorm with the team when you get there.

Kids giving back Cook4Good workshop

Wednesday 17 April from 1pm to 3pm

Learn to cook a nutritious meal with help from a qualified chef. Once the meals are ready, charity partners will distribute them to young people experiencing homelessness and food scarcity.

If you’re aged 14 to 18 and work, live or visit the City of Sydney’s area, you’re invited to register for this free event.

Queer Youth Access Zone

Wednesday 17 April from 2.3pm to 4.30pm

Join an information session led by Centrelink. Young people of diverse sexualities and genders can receive answers to important questions around housing, food, employment and other essentials in a safe space.

Enjoy a free feed while you’re there.

Young Gamers take Customs House

Thursday 18 April from 5pm to 9pm.

Bring your friends and get set for a free night of gaming. From arcade machines to Mario Kart, a Ruins of Sydney Miniatures tournament and more, there’s something for everyone.

There’ll also be live music and DJs. This is a walk-in event. Registrations aren’t required.

3 x 3 basketball

Friday 19 April from 11am to 3pm

Grab your mates and register a team for our 3 on 3 basketball competition. Enjoy this free day of fun, food and entertainment for people aged 12 to 18. Registration is essential.

Australian Sports Program at Perry Park

Friday 19 April from 3pm to 6pm

Come and learn about Australian culture through sport. This unique day of learning includes theory and practical elements in a fun, inclusive and active environment.

You’ll get the change to play sports like AFL, cricket, netball, rugby league and more. The event is free to attend and lunch is provided.

Bronze Medalion at Victoria Park Pool

Saturday 20 April from 9.30am to 4pm

The Bronze Medallion develops knowledge, judgement and skills in rescue, personal survival and emergency care. It’s a mandatory qualification for many careers including teaching, emergency services, outdoor education and in the aquatics industry.

People aged 15 and above can receive this qualification for a discounted rate of just $65.

Discover more Youth Week events on What’s On.

If you’re organising an event of your own, make sure you upload it to What’s On. It's free and takes minutes to do.

Some of these events were organised by members of the City of Sydney Youth Civic Participation program. Applications to be part of the program open later in 2024. Keep an eye out for updates.