A FINAL FAREWELL: SYDNEY FISH MARKET CELEBRATES LAST 36-HOUR SEAFOOD MARATHON BEFORE THE BIG MOVE
- The beloved Christmas tradition returns for its 30th year, giving Sydneysiders a chance to farewell the historic site before the new Sydney Fish Market opens in January
- Doors open from 5:00am on Tuesday 23 until 5:00pm on Wednesday 24 December
- More than 100,000 visitors are expected to attend
- Plate up top quality, affordable Australian seafood this Christmas
Sydney, 23 December 2025
For the very last time in its current home, Sydney Fish Market is preparing to ignite the holiday spirit with its famous 36-Hour Seafood Marathon, an iconic Christmas tradition that has united families, fishmongers and food lovers for three unforgettable decades.
A wave of emotion surrounds this year’s marathon, as tens of thousands return to a place that holds some of their most cherished memories of Christmas, food, celebration and family. With more than 100,000 visitors expected and over 350 tonnes of seafood, including 120 tonnes of prawns and almost 70,000 dozen oysters, to be sold, this year’s marathon promises to be one for the history books as Sydneysiders bid farewell to the original site before the new Sydney Fish Market opens on 19 January 2026.
Sydneysiders will be able to shop for their favourite seafood around the clock, with doors open from 5:00am on Tuesday 23 December through to 5:00pm on Wednesday 24 December.
With over 100 different species available at the Market, there’s something to suit every taste and budget. Alongside classic Christmas favourites like prawns, oysters, and Lobster, Sydney Fish Market’s recommendations this year include Commercial Scallops, Coral Trout, Red Gurnard, and Octopus. Australia's home of seafood is ready to help hosts impress their guests with a showstopping, mouth-watering seafood spread this holiday season.
Sydney Fish Market CEO Daniel Jarosch reflected on the history of this iconic event: “As someone who has spent many years walking this bustling site myself, long before stepping into this role, I’ve seen firsthand how deeply this tradition sits in the heats of Sydneysiders.
“Knowing it’s our final marathon at this historic site makes it especially meaningful. I hope visitors pause to reflect on the memories they’ve created here, while picking up the perfect catch for their Christmas celebrations.”
Visitors can expect to find much more than just seafood at the Market’s retailers, with high quality fruit and vegetables, fresh bread, fine deli goods, and premium beer, wine and spirits all available on site – making Sydney Fish Market the ultimate one-stop-shop this Christmas.
For those looking to beat the crowds, pre-order and home delivery options are available on individual retailers’ websites.
For those looking for a last-minute Christmas gift, Sydney Fish Market has you covered. Pick up A Fish for All Seasons, a cookbook packed with recipes to inspire seafood feasts year-round, or Fishy Business, a fascinating look at the history of Australia’s iconic market. Both make perfect presents for food lovers and fans of Sydney Fish Market alike.
Keep an eye on Sydney Fish Market’s social media accounts and website for updates and information regarding the 36–Hour Seafood Marathon.
WHAT: Sydney Fish Market 36-Hour Seafood Marathon
WHEN: 5:00am on Tuesday, 23 December, through to 5:00pm on Wednesday 24 December
WHERE: Sydney Fish Market, Bank Street, Pyrmont, NSW 2009
HOW TO GET THERE:
Limited car parking will be available at Sydney Fish Market, with additional parking at Sydney Secondary College Blackwattle Bay Campus (opposite Sydney Fish Market on Bridge Road).
Visitors commuting by public transport can catch the 501 and 389 bus services, which regularly depart from the city. Visitors can also catch the Sydney Light Rail, which runs between Dulwich Hill and Central Station, to the Fish Market stop. For route and timetable information visit www.transportnsw.info
After the festive season, Sydney Fish Market moves to its new home. The state-of-the-art new Sydney Fish Market opens 19 January 2026 – a fresh chapter in its seafood story bringing together fresh produce, dining, retail, and immersive seafood experiences all under one roof.
For more information, visit www.sydneyfishmarket.com.au