Winter Solstice with Sydney Philharmonia Choirs

Whether by accident or design, Elizabeth Bay House was built in direct alignment with the sun’s rays on the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year, creating a magnificent display as the sun rises over the horizon.

Arrive before first light for this once-a-year experience and welcome the day in an unforgettable way, as Sydney Philharmonia Choirs fill the house with an immersive choral performance inspired by the dawn chorus.

Deepen the experience with an engaging talk by Dr Andrew Jacob, curator and astronomer at Sydney Observatory, who will offer insights into the science, history and celestial significance of the solstice.

Warm up afterwards with a hot drink and delicious pastries!

Members get more: Members enjoy pre-sale access and a 20% members discount on tickets

The sofa in the morning room at Elizabeth Bay House
Museum stories

The finest house

In 1835 colonial secretary Alexander Macleay set about building the ultimate trophy house, a shimmering, classical styled jewel box, perched in rugged bushland on the northern side of present day Potts Point, high above Elizabeth Bay with majestic views across Sydney harbour and beyond

Sydney Observatory guide

A large number of the Observatory’s records, along with records relating to an earlier observatory based in Parramatta, are held in our Collection and provide an intriguing resource for the history of science in Australia.

7 Onslow Avenue, Elizabeth Bay NSW 2011

Elizabeth Bay House

7 Onslow Avenue, Elizabeth Bay NSW 2011Plan your visit
  • Sunday 21 June 6.30am–8.30am