SMASH Sydney 2026
Australia's largest anime and manga convention, bringing Japanese culture to Sydney.
Event concluded
Convention tips
location
SMASH 2026 is at ICC Sydney Exhibition Centre in Darling Harbour. The venue is a 10-15 minute walk from Town Hall station or a short walk from Convention light rail stop on the L2/L3 line.
transit
Light rail (L2/L3) stops at Convention station, directly outside the ICC. Ferries also stop at Darling Harbour (Pyrmont Bay Wharf). Avoid driving as Darling Harbour parking is expensive.
food
Darling Harbour is packed with restaurants on the waterfront. Paddy's Markets in Haymarket (5-minute walk) has cheap food stalls. The Harbourside Shopping Centre adjacent to ICC has multiple dining options.
weather
Sydney in mid-July is the middle of winter: averages 12-16C (54-61F) with overcast days and some rain. Bring a warm layer for cosplay since the walk from transit stops is exposed.
hotels
Novotel Sydney on Darling Harbour, Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour, and Hyatt Regency Sydney are all within a 5-minute walk of the ICC. Cheaper options are in the Haymarket and CBD area, a short light rail ride away.
Weekend cost estimate
Estimated cost for attending SMASH Sydney 2026 in Sydney, AU. These are ballpark ranges based on convention size and typical venue-area pricing. Your actual costs will vary based on travel distance, hotel choice, and spending habits.
| Expense | Solo | Split with friend | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
Badge Prices go up closer to the event. Buy early. | AUD $30-$50 | AUD $30-$50 | AUD $30-$50 |
Hotel (1 night) Split rate assumes 2 people per room. | $100–$180 | $50–$90 | $100–$180 |
Food (2 days) Convention center meals run $12–$18 each. | $70 | $70 | $70 |
Artist alley and vendors Set a cash budget before the doors open. | $40–$100 | $40–$100 | $40–$100 |
Parking or transit Split if you carpool. Many venues have paid lots only. | $30 | $0–$30 | $30 |
| Total estimate | $270–$430 | $190–$310 | $270–$430 |
Plan your full budget with the convention budget calculator. Travel costs (gas, flights, tolls) are not included above.
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