Fun Things To Do in Sydney

Want to learn to paint, try your hand at pottery or make authentic Italian pasta from scratch? Enter your flow state at one of our hands-on workshops in Sydney and turn those creative dreams into a reality! Perfect for solo crafters, groups, and team-building activities, our laidback workshops are a wonderful way to try something new in a warm and welcoming environment. Whether you're looking for hen’s party ideas, birthday party ideas, or fun weekend activities, our beginner-friendly classes are some of the best things to do in Sydney. Choose from cooking classes, art classes, floristry courses and discover your new niche!

... Read more

As seen on:

We donate with every booking, to

ClassBento donates to Dementia Australia

Bee Magic Christmas Workshop for Kids

Bee Magic Christmas Workshop for Kids

5.0 (2)

5 to 12 years

Contact for details

Castle Cove

1 to 24 guests

$150

Christmas Wreath Making Class

Christmas Wreath Making Class

4k followers

Contact for details

North Sydney

1 to 12 guests

$218

Christmas Stocking Workshop

Christmas Stocking Workshop

Sold out - join waitlist

Rosebery

1 to 15 guests

$165

Festive Sip and Sew Workshop

Festive Sip and Sew Workshop

Sold out - join waitlist

Rosebery

1 to 20 guests

$69

Christmas Sewing Workshop for Festive Home Décor

Christmas Sewing Workshop for Festive Home Décor

4k followers

Sold out - join waitlist

North Sydney

1 to 15 guests

$69

Pottery Workshop: Make Your Beer Mug for Xmas

Pottery Workshop: Make Your Beer Mug for Xmas

Contact for details

Brookvale

1 to 30 guests

$90 - $195

Festive Felting: Crafting Handmade Christmas Gifts

Festive Felting: Crafting Handmade Christmas Gifts

4k followers

Contact for details

North Sydney

1 to 15 guests

$272

Summer Pilates Fusion Class

Summer Pilates Fusion Class

4k followers

Sold out - join waitlist

North Sydney

1 to 20 guests

$107

Summer Dance Fitness Class

Summer Dance Fitness Class

4k followers

Sold out - join waitlist

North Sydney

1 to 20 guests

$71

Evening Yoga Summer Flexibility Class

Evening Yoga Summer Flexibility Class

4k followers

Sold out - join waitlist

North Sydney

1 to 20 guests

$71

Summer Morning Yoga Class for All Levels

Summer Morning Yoga Class for All Levels

4k followers

Sold out - join waitlist

North Sydney

1 to 20 guests

$71

Summer Mat Pilates Workshop

Summer Mat Pilates Workshop

4k followers

Sold out - join waitlist

North Sydney

1 to 20 guests

$85

Easy Christmas Crochet Class

Easy Christmas Crochet Class

Contact for details

Roseville

1 to 8 guests

$149

Looking for more options? Please message us or call us on 0488 839 505, and we'll quickly organise a class for your group

Discover more

Art Classes Sydney

Beauty and Fragrance Classes Sydney

Cooking Classes Sydney

Craft Classes Sydney

Flowers and Plants Classes Sydney

Paint and Sip Classes Sydney

Pottery Classes Sydney

More Sydney activities ideas

5 Mother's Day Activities in Sydney to Take Mum in 2025

5 Mother's Day Activities in Sydney to Take Mum in 2025

By Tiffany Fung

Find the best Mother’s Day activities in Sydney and treat her to something special. From terrarium making to skincare pampering, there’s something ...

Everything You'll Learn at Sewing Courses Sydney

Everything You'll Learn at Sewing Courses Sydney

By Jana Lepojevic

Learn the art of sewing in Sydney! From beginners to advanced, discover how sewing courses can teach you to make clothes, embroidery and more.

How to Host a Magical Mother's Day Lunch in Sydney in 2025

How to Host a Magical Mother's Day Lunch in Sydney in 2025

By Annie Symmonds

If you're celebrating Mother's Day with a lunch this year, why not go a step further with cooking class experience gifts for Mum on Mother's Day ...

7 Best Pottery Painting Classes in Sydney

7 Best Pottery Painting Classes in Sydney

By Tiffany Fung

If you’re looking for a creative outlet in 2023, head to one of the best pottery painting classes in Sydney.

The Best Places to Try a Flower Arranging Class in Sydney

The Best Places to Try a Flower Arranging Class in Sydney

By Jana Lepojevic

Learn the art of floral design at the best places to try flower arranging courses in Sydney. Be taught by experts and get creative with vibrant ...

Romantic Sydney Dates Based on Your Love Language

Romantic Sydney Dates Based on Your Love Language

By Tiffany Fung

From quality time to physical touch, discover the most romantic date ideas in Sydney, based on your partner’s love language, and make date nights ...

Cocktail Classes in Sydney for Every Special Occasion

Cocktail Classes in Sydney for Every Special Occasion

By Tiffany Fung

Looking to celebrate a special event? Cocktail classes in Sydney create the perfect atmosphere for you to shake classic cocktails and bond with your ...

Discover Cocktail Making in Sydney

Discover Cocktail Making in Sydney

By ClassBento Team

Take your appreciation for boozy drinks to a whole new level with cocktail making classes in Sydney!

How to Throw a Crafty Winter Soiree in Sydney

How to Throw a Crafty Winter Soiree in Sydney

By Sam Bowden

With a long list of fun indoor activities, we're here to help you construct the best crafty winter soiree Sydney has ever seen!

5 Unique Sewing Classes in Sydney

5 Unique Sewing Classes in Sydney

By Tiffany Fung

If you’re looking for a fun, new hobby to try in 2023, discover sewing classes in Sydney! Stitch, sew and embroider ordinary fabric into amazing ...

Discover a New Hobby with Ceramic Painting Classes in Sydney

Discover a New Hobby with Ceramic Painting Classes in Sydney

By Tiffany Fung

If you’ve been wanting to try ceramic painting classes in Sydney, here’s your chance to. Step inside your pottery studio, pick up a paintbrush ...

Best Pottery Classes in Sydney to Try This Winter

Best Pottery Classes in Sydney to Try This Winter

By Sam Bowden

Beat the cold and head inside this winter with the best indoor pottery classes in Sydney! From wheel throwing to clay play, pottery classes will ...

Ultimate Party Ideas in Sydney

Ultimate Party Ideas in Sydney

By Grace Smith

This ultimate list of party ideas in Sydney will see you organising the best parties! From 30th birthdays to Christmas bashes, a workshop party has ...

7 Winter Crafts You Need to Try in Sydney

7 Winter Crafts You Need to Try in Sydney

By Sam Bowden

As winter sets in for 2022, here are 7 winter crafts to keep you cozy and warm inside as it gets colder outside.

Discover the Benefits of Adult Art Classes in Sydney for Yourself

Discover the Benefits of Adult Art Classes in Sydney for Yourself

By Jana Lepojevic

Discover the benefits of Sydney adult art classes for personal growth. Tap into your artistic potentional as you explore different mediums and t ...

What to Expect at Painting Courses in Sydney

What to Expect at Painting Courses in Sydney

By Tiffany Fung

New to the world of painting? Read our beginner guide to uncovering what painting courses in Sydney are really like!

Unleash Your Creativity with the Best Painting Classes in Sydney

Unleash Your Creativity with the Best Painting Classes in Sydney

By Tiffany Fung

Discover your inner artist with our guide to the best painting classes in Sydney. Ideal for beginners or seasoned painters seeking inspiration!

How to Shop for Every Type of Mum This Mothers Day

How to Shop for Every Type of Mum This Mothers Day

By Sam Bowden

Stuck for Mother's Day gift ideas in Sydney? Don't worry, we've put together a helpful guide to shopping for every type of Mum in 2025!

Best Party Ideas for Kids in Sydney

Best Party Ideas for Kids in Sydney

By Natalie Kemp

We’ve collected the best kids party ideas for 5 years old and under, no matter how big or small your budget and guest list...

5 Unique Drawing Classes in Sydney to Explore Your Creativity

5 Unique Drawing Classes in Sydney to Explore Your Creativity

By Kellie Maloney

Brush up on your drawing skills or add a creative twist to your next social event with these 5 unique drawing class in Sydney. Perfect for adults ...

5 Things You Didn't Know You Could do in Rosebery

5 Things You Didn't Know You Could do in Rosebery

By Kellie Maloney

From rolling out ricotta ravioli to painting porcelain ceramics, what it lacks in size, the leafy Sydney suburb of Rosebery makes up for in experiences. ...

Everything You Can Make at a Flower Arranging Course in Sydney

Everything You Can Make at a Flower Arranging Course in Sydney

By Jana Lepojevic

Learn all the wonderful arrangements you can make at a flower arranging course in Sydney. Design beautiful blooms, from beautiful bouquets to flower ...

9 Unique Jewellery Making Courses in Sydney to Try in 2025

9 Unique Jewellery Making Courses in Sydney to Try in 2025

By Tiffany Fung

Shape, roll and solder at these jewellery making courses in Sydney and learn how to craft personalised accessories you love!

5 Art Classes in Sydney to Help Spark Creativity

5 Art Classes in Sydney to Help Spark Creativity

By Tiffany Fung

Let your imagination run wild at art classes in Sydney. Whether you're a complete beginner or a keen painter, get ready to discover your inner c ...

Support Local Creatives at Art Classes Sydney

Support Local Creatives at Art Classes Sydney

By Tiffany Fung

Sydney's art classes invite you to explore untapped creativity! Engage in painting, resin art and more. Work with local artists and create masterpieces ...

Why Cocktail Classes Make the Best Date Activities in Sydney

Why Cocktail Classes Make the Best Date Activities in Sydney

By ClassBento Team

Not sure what to do when date night comes around? Why not try cocktail making with your date! Shake up your love life with these boozy date ideas ...

9 Reasons You'll Love Floristry Courses in Sydney

9 Reasons You'll Love Floristry Courses in Sydney

By Tiffany Fung

Looking for a creative mid-week activity? Here are 7 reasons why you should try floristry classes in Sydney and spend a relaxing evening surrounded ...

9 Best Pottery Classes in Sydney You'll Love

9 Best Pottery Classes in Sydney You'll Love

By Annie Symmonds

Discover 9 best pottery classes in Sydney you're guaranteed to love! From wheel throwing to clay and sip, there's something to suit everyone's i ...

Celebrate Your Next Event with Floristry Classes in Sydney

Celebrate Your Next Event with Floristry Classes in Sydney

By Jana Lepojevic

Elevate your next event with floristry classes in Sydney. Create flower crowns, bouquets and more to celebrate a hens, birthday, Valentine's or your ...

Best Creative Party Ideas for Teens in Sydney

Best Creative Party Ideas for Teens in Sydney

By Sam Bowden

Chasing party ideas for teens in Sydney? ClassBento's range of workshops and activities are perfect for creating unforgettable party experiences ...

What to Expect at a Barista Course in Sydney

What to Expect at a Barista Course in Sydney

By Tiffany Fung

Level up your morning cup of joe at a barista course in Sydney! These hands-on workshops are the perfect place to learn how to make your own coffee ...

Best Family Activities in Sydney

Best Family Activities in Sydney

By Sam Bowden

Keen to spend a little quality time together? We've compiled a list of fun things to do with kids in Sydney! You're guaranteed to love these crafty ...

Discover Local Hidden Gems at Sydney Photography Workshops

Discover Local Hidden Gems at Sydney Photography Workshops

By Tiffany Fung

Be your own tourist at photography classes in Sydney and discover new, hidden gems to capture through your lens.

7 Benefits to Trying Out a Photography Course in Sydney (2025)

7 Benefits to Trying Out a Photography Course in Sydney (2025)

By Kellie Maloney

See your city through a whole new lens and reap the benefits of photography courses in Sydney!

Learn Photography in Sydney at 7 These Local Neighbourhoods (2025)

Learn Photography in Sydney at 7 These Local Neighbourhoods (2025)

By Kellie Maloney

See the suburbs of Sydney like never before with photography courses in Sydney where you can explore your local neighbourhood as well as hidden ...

30 Best Local Experiences in Sydney This Month

30 Best Local Experiences in Sydney This Month

By Sam Bowden

With so many things to do in Sydney, here's some of the best local experiences for you to enjoy during this month.

Learn to Draw Something You Love with These Sydney Activities

Learn to Draw Something You Love with These Sydney Activities

By Kellie Maloney

Explore drawing classes in Sydney and learn to create stunning portraits, pet sketches, and urban scenes. Perfect for beginners and experienced artists ...

7 Unique Cocktail Experiences in Sydney You Need to Know About

7 Unique Cocktail Experiences in Sydney You Need to Know About

By Sarah Hinds-Friedl

Start your night out with cocktail classes in Sydney and learn how to shake, muddle, stir from experienced bartenders. Fun, educational and tast ...

4 Best After School Craft Clubs in Sydney

4 Best After School Craft Clubs in Sydney

By Sam Bowden

ClassBento is lucky to work with some of the best after school craft clubs providers in the country. Here is just a couple of our stand outs!

11 Unique Cooking Class in Sydney

11 Unique Cooking Class in Sydney

By John Tabari

Join unique cooking classes in Sydney and add a dash of excitement and flavour to your week!

Try a Superfood Cocktail Making Class in Sydney This Weekend

Try a Superfood Cocktail Making Class in Sydney This Weekend

By Tiffany Fung

Master the art of mixology at cocktail making classes in Sydney and pick up the confidence and know-how to add a healthy superfood twist to your ...

Floristry Workshops Have Hidden Benefits (2025)

Floristry Workshops Have Hidden Benefits (2025)

By Sarah Hinds-Friedl

Discover the wellbeing benefits of being surrounded by flowers at floristry classes in Sydney!

Learn How to Make Macarons in Sydney

Learn How to Make Macarons in Sydney

By John Tabari

Learn how to make macarons at fun baking classes in Sydney. French or Parisian Macaron What people often refer to as a ‘Parisian’Learn how to make macarons at fun baking classes in Sydney. French or Parisian Macaron What people often refer to as a ‘Parisian’ or ‘French’ macaron is the traditional recipe. That is, two meringue biscuits on top of one another with a sweet filling. Usually ganache, buttercream, smooth cream or caramel. They are easy to make but you must adhere closely to the recipe, otherwise they could end up with an undesirable appearance or texture. To make any variation of the macaron, you should first acquaint yourself with the basic recipe or alternatively if you dare you could book a class with MakMak's macaron making class in sydney If not then read on! How to make macaron shells: Whisk egg whites until they form meringue. You will know you’re at this point when you lift the whisk out of the bowl and it leaves stiff peaks. Add any food colouring or flavour at this point. Process almonds in a blender until smooth. You can also combine powdered sugar in the blender too. Sift this mixture well to get rid of any clumps. Fold the sifted almond granules and powdered sugar into the meringue. Continue to fold until you achieve a shaving foam consistency. Using a piping bag, pipe the mixture in the desired size onto baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Leave around an inch between each shell. Tap the baking sheets firmly a couple of times to release any air bubbles. Leave to stand at room temperature for 30 minutes until the shells form a skin. Bake for 10-12 minutes at 325 F until they have risen and set. Let them cool before adding the filling. How to make a macaron buttercream filling: Cream butter until it’s smooth. Then mix in powdered sugar, vanilla and milk until fluffy. Using a piping bag, pipe the filling onto one shell and gently compress both shells together. Various fillings You may want to change up your fillings depending on the flavour of the macaron whether sweet, savoury or a fruity flavour. For instance for a savoury macaron a common substitution for buttercream is cream cheese, which you can also make from scratch. You could get really experimental and see how smooth peanut butter or lemon curd work. Anything that has a thick, pasty consistency could work. But be sure to steer clear of ingredients with high moisture contents such as whipped cream or ice cream, as these will dissolve the shells. Make sure you’re gentle when adding a filling; they are delicate and pressing too hard could crush them. Different Shapes If you think that you’re a pretty skilled baker, or have mastered the simple macaron, try experimenting with different shapes. MakMak’s CEO Carlos the “Mak” daddy of macrons can give you your first steps in creating some amazing macarons with his macaron making class. If you’re game you could make animals, flowers or even other food shapes with macarons. Similarly, another Toronto baker, Christopher Siu creates macaron characters, including some faces you might recognise. To make these macarons, follow the basic recipe. When it comes to piping out the mixture, you would need to pipe it into the desired shape. To achieve the desired colour, add food colouring in while you’re folding the dry ingredients into the egg whites. Be careful though, these treats may end up being too adorable to eat. Taste test more of the best baking classes in Sydney here. Bonus: Macaroons People often confuse macarons and macaroons, thinking that they’re the same thing. In fact, if you google ‘macaroon’ you will still see results for macarons. But macaroons are a coconut based sweet, which is chewy on the inside with a crisp exterior. They are quite different from the traditional French macaron. The Anglicised pronunciation of ‘macaron’ often lends to the confusion. Start by mixing sweetened condensed milk, shaved coconut flakes and vanilla extract until well combined. Then whisk egg whites and salt, the way you would to get meringue. Add the two mixtures together and fold. Scoop small dollops of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking tray. Then bake at 325 F for 25 minutes. For some extra sweetness, dip the bottom of the macaroons in melted chocolate and then refrigerate for 10 minutes. Let the chocolate set and enjoy. Macaron Troubleshooting Tips Anyone who has attempted to make macarons will know that they don’t always turn out well. In fact, they often turn out less than perfect, since the margin for error could occur at any time throughout the baking process. Here’s what to look for if your macarons aren’t quite up to the Ladurée standard: Peaks on the shell. This can happen when the dry ingredients were not sifted enough or the batter was under-mixed. Cracked shell. This happens when the batter is overmixed. Uneven Shell. The batter is too liquidy or under-beaten. Too Crispy. The shells were left in the oven too long. ...

Best Candle Making Aromatherapy Classes in Sydney

Best Candle Making Aromatherapy Classes in Sydney

By Julia Carr-Catzel

Experience the art of aromatherapy at the best candle making classes in Sydney! Create your own fragrant candles and discover their benefits with ...

Discover How to Take Good Photos with Your Smartphone in Sydney

Discover How to Take Good Photos with Your Smartphone in Sydney

By Annie Symmonds

Grab your smartphone and your walking shoes and learn how to take good photos on your smartphone at photography courses in Sydney!

Different Types of Pottery Classes in Sydney

Different Types of Pottery Classes in Sydney

By John Tabari

Searching for pottery classes in Sydney? From wheel throwing to clay hand building, find out which ceramic class is perfect for you!

Ladies Weekend Away Ideas

Ladies Weekend Away Ideas

By ClassBento Team

Heading away from Sydney and looking forward to a hens weekend away? These hens party activities in Sydney and surrounds will keep the fun going ...

Fun Things to do with Kids This Weekend in Sydney

Fun Things to do with Kids This Weekend in Sydney

By Sam Bowden

Hunting down kids activities in Sydney this weekend? We've got a range of workshops for you to check out as life after lockdown resumes.

Try Out a Photography Class in Sydney (2025)

Try Out a Photography Class in Sydney (2025)

By John Tabari

Try out a photography class in Sydney and learn how to take photos on manual mode or your smartphone while exploring Sydney.

Best Photography Classes in Sydney for Those Looking to Sharpen Their Eye

Best Photography Classes in Sydney for Those Looking to Sharpen Their Eye

By Sam Bowden

Continue growing your skills at photography courses in Sydney and gain confidence with your DSLR camera!

Why do a Barista Course in Sydney? (2025)

Why do a Barista Course in Sydney? (2025)

By ClassBento Team

Jump behind the espresso machine and make the perfect coffee with barista courses in Sydney, perfect for helping you save money and learn new barista ...

5 Sydney Experiences That Will Lift Your Mood

5 Sydney Experiences That Will Lift Your Mood

By Sam Bowden

Looking for Sydney experiences that will lift your spirits? From glassblowing to ramen-making, here are five cozy activities to do this weekend!

5 Creative School Excursion Ideas Sydney

5 Creative School Excursion Ideas Sydney

By ClassBento Team

Looking for an inspiring school excursion ideas in Sydney? Whether you're organising an event for high school students or even primary schoolLooking for an inspiring school excursion ideas in Sydney? Whether you're organising an event for high school students or even primary school learners, ClassBento has a class that makes learning fun. Give them a different perspective and broaden their horizons. Cultivate a love of learning in them. Our teachers are flexible, and happy to customise classes to suit your group – that could mean travelling to your venue, reducing the length of the class or customising its content, and tweaking pricing to suit your budget. And as a nice bonus – the adults (e.g. the accompanying teachers) will have a great time too. Every participant will get to keep whatever they make – perhaps a nice gift for the parents! Here are our favourite 5 ideas, ones that we wished we had as excursions when we were younger! Soap making or candle making – the kids will be too busy enjoying themselves to notice that they’re actually getting a valuable lesson in chemistry. Let them express their artistic selves as they select fragrances and the ingredients for their handmade products Terrarium making or Kokedama making – get closer to nature and learn about plants and gardens. The younger ones will love getting their hands stuck into the dirt and soil, and playing with the pebbles and other decorations to decorate their mini gardens – they’ll be exploring their creative side while doing so Screen printing – learn about how photo emulsions work, in a fun screen printing class. The kids can create their own designs, and use those to personalise totes, t-shirts, and more Pottery – don’t have pottery equipment at your school? Let our teachers show how one of mankind’s oldest inventions has evolved and remains relevant today Japanese calligraphy – learn about Japanese culture, and how to wield a traditional Japanese brush. Create beautiful and artistic characters Didn’t see any that ticks your boxes? Have a look at our full range of classes here ...

Minimise Your Food Waste with Pickling Cooking Class in Sydney

Minimise Your Food Waste with Pickling Cooking Class in Sydney

By Tiffany Fung

Discover how salt, vinegar and spices can be used to cut down food waste at pickling cooking classes in Sydney!

Cultural Cooking Classes in Sydney You Need to Know About

Cultural Cooking Classes in Sydney You Need to Know About

By Grace Smith

Dish up overflowing bowls of rustic Italian pasta or roll delicious sushi at cooking classes in Sydney, and learn about their different cultures ...

Top Dance Classes in Sydney

Top Dance Classes in Sydney

By ClassBento Team

If you've been daydreaming about stepping into a dance studio and unleashing your inner dancer, now is the perfect time to make it a reality!If you've been daydreaming about stepping into a dance studio and unleashing your inner dancer, now is the perfect time to make it a reality! Whether you're looking to improve your fitness, meet new people, or simply have a great time, dancing has something special to offer. Get ready to discover the joy and freedom of moving to the beat. There are so many Sydney dance classes for first timers to try, from beginners courses to more intermediate and advanced level classes. There are even fun dance classes for kids. So, if you’re just starting out, it’s only going to get more exciting and fun from here! If you're a little unsure about dipping your toes into the world of dance or haven't yet discovered which dance style speaks to you, we've got your back! In this guide, we will walk you through all the different types of dance classes that you can sign up for this year. From ballet to salsa, hip-hop to contemporary, there's something for everyone. We want you to explore your options and find the class that truly ignites your passion. Check out some of these courses: • nf!Beginner’s Dance Class with Rhiannon Blanche This one hour class will teach you the basics of Ballet, Jazz, Lyrical or Contemporary Dance, but don’t be intimidated. Rhiannon has a gift for making dance fun for all ages. The class can accommodate up to 18 students, and it’s recommended that you wear tight, flexible clothes and appropriate footwear (socks, ballet shoes, or Jazz shoes). The class is in Curl Curl, but Rhiannon can also travel up fo 30km to meet you where you’re most comfortable! • nf!Rumba Fit Dance Class If you’re looking for something more akin to an extreme workout class, head on over to Alexandria for a fun Rumba class. Rumba is a style of Colombian dance that pulls from Champeta, Reggaeton, Salsa, Merengue, Bachata, Cumbia, Africano, and Samba, and if you don’t know what any of those are, don’t worry about it. Just know that it’s upbeat, fast-paced, and lots and lots of fun. The class will start out with slowed-down instruction and then you’ll get a chance to show your stuff and work up a sweat. This one-hour class is available upon request or when classes are posted. • nf!Bollywood Dance Class with Garima Rawat If you’ve every watched a Bollywood film, you probably thought about how cool it would be to learn the dance moves. And now, in just one hour, you can! Garima will show you the steps and have you dancing along to Bollywood music in no time! Head on over to Dulwich Hill to start enjoying Bollywood films in a new way! • nf!Kpop Private Dance Class with Mitchel Yee Kpop is taking over the world with its captivating music and great dance moves. This one-on-one hour-long class is amazing for anyone from beginners to the more advanced who want to learn how to join the kpop craze. All that you need to do is show up with a water bottle, towel, and comfortable clothes because it will definitely be a workout. Mitchel generally holds his classes in Campsie but is willing to travel. Don’t miss out on this great workshop! • nf!Open Hiphop Dance Lessons with Jeffery Hu Hiphop may feel like one of those things that you’re either good at or not, but Jeffery is an expert at proving that idea wrong. His engaging and pressure-free hour-long workshops allow students to find their own movement through the traditional steps of hiphop. No prior experience required. This class takes place in Campsie or within 7km. • nf!Beginner Ballet, Tap and Contemporary Dance Workshop with Issy Wright Issy is all about helping you learn the foundations of dance in a wonderful, engaging class. From tap, lyrical, ballet or contemporary, you’ll learn the modern techniques of dance so that your dancing is always improving. This one and a half hour class takes place in North Sydney. • nf!Basic Steps for Latin Rhythms Dance Class with Fanny Moreno Head on over to Epping to spend an hour and a half learning how to dance to Latin music with Fanny. It’s a great, friendly atmosphere where you’ll learn the basic steps to a variety of Latin-based dance styles. Classes are generally small, with no more than 5 students. • nf!Salsa Dance Class with Connection Studios Last but not least, you’ll definitely want to check out this high-energy dance class with Connection Studios in Surry Hills. This class can get quite large, with up to 30 people, and that’s because it is two hours of pure fun. With all of these wonderful dance options available, there’s no better time to find your inner rhythm. You’ll have fun, you’ll get a good workout, and you’ll meet great people. Enjoy! ...

Learn to Make Japanese Sweets in Sydney

Learn to Make Japanese Sweets in Sydney

By ClassBento Team

A typical Japanese bakery will have wagashi. In fact, they won’t just have wagashi. Most likely, they will have many, many types of the bite-sizedA typical Japanese bakery will have wagashi. In fact, they won’t just have wagashi. Most likely, they will have many, many types of the bite-sized sweet Japanese treats. As you peruse your options, it will be difficult to pinpoint just one tantalizing option: there are small, soft green balls, dense, chocolate-like squares, intricately molded hard candies, and more, all delicious and delicate and exciting. Learn how to make them from scratch at Japanese cooking classes in Sydney. After deliberating for a long time between the wide selection, you may just have to sample more than one. Don’t worry if you don’t find your favourite treat on your first pass. Japanese sweets are available at virtually every Japanese establishment in Australia, including restaurants, department stores, food carts, and convenience stores (1). Make sure that you have an open mind and a cup of green tea with you as you begin your wagashi journey. To understand wagashi, you must first learn the ancient art of tea ceremony. You’ve probably heard of Japanese Tea Ceremony, a practice that automatically conjures up images of delicate tea sets, the precise and talented movements of a tea master, and the serene greenery of a tea garden. Historians have written a great deal about this highly structured and difficult-to-learn cultural practice, from its introduction to Japan in the 700’s to today’s tea ceremony revival in younger generations. Everyone can agree that tea ceremony holds a special place in Japan’s national identity, invoking pride in citizens and absolute awe in tourists. What you may not have heard, but will be excited to learn, is that tea ceremony has a sweet secret: Wagashi, or Japanese sweets. This facet of tea culture deals specifically with the sweet accompaniments to green tea, made up mostly of sweet bean pastes and rice flour. They come in an endless variety of colors, shapes, tastes and textures, and have become a cultural staple in their own right. Dessert-lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike are anxious to sign up for Japanese confectionery classes, in which students learn the preparation method and serving technique of the tasty morsels. Try making your own sweet treats with ClassBento's friendly and expert teachers, or dive deeper into a workshop that focuses on Japanese arts and culture. Once you’ve signed up for your beginner’s course, you may want to brush up on your Japanese tea history before your first class. Here are a few key things to remember about this special practice: • In the 14th century, tea ceremony was created by Zen Buddhists as a religious practice emphasizing the four integral notions of harmony, respect, purity and tranquility (2). Because of this, tea ceremony is a fundamentally spiritual practice and has retained sacred status for seven centuries. • The most important name associated with tea ceremony is Sen Rikyu (3), a tea master who set the standard for tea ceremony by codifying the entire process, from the technical process, to the utensils, to the setting. He is credited with developing the notions of wabi (a commitment to simple, everyday living) and sabi (an aesthetic tendency towards the old and worn.) The overall intention is to find beauty in ordinary objects. • Tea masters dedicate their entire lives to perfecting their craft, and a full tea ceremony can last up for four hours, with multiple renditions of green tea, a meal, sake tasting, and wagashi (4). Now that you have a foundational knowledge of the main show, let’s pivot to one of the key players of the ceremony: wagashi. Wagashi can be broken down into three separate categories - togashi, tenjin and nanban-gashi - each with its own taste and cultural history(5). • Togashi is the rarest form of Japanese confectionery and is made from the kneading of wheat flour or bean paste into various shapes. It is then deep-fried and has a long tradition of being served at aristocratic banquets. • Tenjin is the type most closely associated with tea ceremony as it was introduced with by the zen buddhists who popularized the custom. It is characterized by jellied and bun-like sweets, although traditional versions were more savory than sweet. • Nanban-gashi was radically different from other forms of wagashi when it was introduced by Portuguese immigrants in 1543. Unlike its savory relatives, this unique form utilized sweet ingredients and eggs, which were previously uncommon on the islands. If such distinctions are not enough, wagashi gets more complicated - and more exciting! For, the creation of Japanese sweets are not simply shaping sweetened bean paste into random shapes. Instead, each wagashi creates a balance of the senses which enhances its role as part of the Zen Buddhist’s tea ceremony(6): • Sight - each wagashi is perfectly crafted to be aesthetically pleasing and thought provoking • Taste - wagashi is a showcase of its natural ingredients, allowing the person tasting the treat to admire traditional Japanese crops such as beans and grains • Texture – the sweets come in a vast variety of textures, from soft to crispy to light to dense • Scent - a key aspect is subtlety - in fragrance, especially. Each morsel compliments the other scents of the ceremony, like the all-important green tea • Sound - wagashi invoke an auditory response as a result of its unique and significant labels. Many refer to natural elements or traditional poetic works When sifting through all of the information, you may feel a little bit overwhelmed. This is normal; tea ceremony and Japanese sweets boast of long and meaningful histories that are difficult for foreigners to understand. But wagashi can be a beautiful and accessible hobby, in which students learn about and gain an appreciation for an incredibly complex culture while also exploring the creative process of wagashi-making. As a student of wagashi, you can benefit just by learning the basics, or you can fully lean into the practice, tapping into an extensive and well-established tradition of sweet-making. Learn about the amazing health benefits of matcha here. References: (1) japan-guide.com (2) mightyleaf.com (3) britannica.com (4) shibuiswords.com (5) kikkoman.com (6) toraya-group.co.jp ...

Experience Candle Making Classes at Caroma in Sydney

Experience Candle Making Classes at Caroma in Sydney

By ClassBento Team

Last Saturday, ClassBento's expert soap making teacher, Elena Martarello, hosted a group of 30 students at Sydney's Caroma Flagship store ...

8 Environmentally Friendly Workshops in Sydney and Beyond

8 Environmentally Friendly Workshops in Sydney and Beyond

By Sierra Elise Joseph

Get back to the basics and start your journey toward sustainable living with these eight environmentally friendly workshops in Sydney and Melbou ...

Learn to Cook Traditional Japanese Food in Sydney

Learn to Cook Traditional Japanese Food in Sydney

By Julia Carr-Catzel

‘We are truly happy. We would like to continue passing on Japanese food culture to the generations to come and work harder to let people overseas‘We are truly happy. We would like to continue passing on Japanese food culture to the generations to come and work harder to let people overseas appreciate the benefits of washoku’ revelled the Japanese President Shinzo Abe, in late 2013. Japanese cuisine or ‘washoku’ had just earned a place on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list, seated between nations: France and Mexico, lauded for their culturally significant cuisines. In a country renowned for its harmonious relationship to food, the recognition arrived at a time when vast amounts of food waste suggested otherwise. Specifically, a whopping eight million tons of it. President of the National Assembly on the Preservation and Continuation of Washoku Culture, Isao Kumakura, attributed the waste to the seductive charm of convenience. The Japanese appeared to be swept up in soaring productivity of the 21st century, the fast-paced days saw the home delivery of noodle-dishes and bento box lunches, fad-food diets and restaurant distributed meals replacing home-cooked. This detachment from food, ruined the very foundation of washoku: valuing food and avoiding waste. The pace of progress has not slowed for anyone, least of all Japan, since 2013, though the movements of bodies such as the National Assembly, alongside grassroots action, have certainly helped revive the endangered washoku. Implementation of parent-child classes in diverse dietary education, provision of local dishes in school lunches and community events and the establishment of symposiums on Japan’s dietary culture, have encouraged locals to rediscover their identity. Rediscovering Washoku Over the course of history, the cultural influence of nations embarking upon Japanese shores has resulted in numerous culinary transformations. The arrival of European missionaries during the 16th century saw locals combine Spanish and Portuguese frying techniques. An experimentation with Chinese methods of cooking during this time resulted in tempura: a deep-fried dish typically focused on seafood and vegetables, popular in modern Japan. Japanese chefs incorporated increasingly more meat into their dishes, reflective of Western-style cooking during the 19th century. Soon enough, beef, deep-fried pork cutlets and curry dominated the food scene. Underlying it all: the traditional Japanese cuisine: washoku, valuing simplicity and health. Surrounded by seas where warm and cold currents converge, Japan is home to four thousand species of fish, including squid, octopus, and eel. Sea vegetables line the shores and well developed rice fields saw the birth of a culture of cultivation, dating two thousand years. A combination of Japan’s natural elements, constitute the basis of washoku. Sitting down for a traditional meal typically resembles: a bowl of rice, miso soup, pickled vegetables, fish or meat. Noodles often replace rice as a staple food, including udon, soba and ramen. Only the freshest and seasonal ingredients are served, in minimalist presentation. Japanese chefs aim to harness the natural flavour and texture of each ingredient, most commonly fish, requiring knife mastery specific to Japanese culinary arts. As children, locals are taught to balance plain-tasting rice with stronger side-tasting dishes, consuming a morsel of rice after each bite of side dish, savouring the taste and texture of every ingredient and achieve a balance of proteins, fats and carbohydrates. Umami is the core, essential element in washoku, translated from Japanese to ‘pleasant savoury taste’ coined by chemist: Kikunae Ikeda, back in 1908. Japanese cooking uses minimal ingredients, umami provides the flavour base for most dishes. The flavour is richest in fermented condiments such as ‘dashi’, a rich stock made from kelp, miso (fermented soybean paste) and soy sauce. Of the numerous styles of Japanese cooking, chakaiseki (also spelt as kaiseki): cuisine of the tea ceremony meal, honzen ryori: elaborate style of banquet cooking and kaiseki ryori: traditional multi-course dinner, Shojin ryori: the temple food of Zen Buddhists, values traditional cuisine in a deeply introspective approach, reflective of the Buddhist gratitude to nature, promoting harmony of mind, body and soul. Temple Food of Zen Buddhists Dating back to prehistoric times, the Japanese’ indigenous worldview has found profound religious meaning in its surrounding natural environment. Founder of Soto Zen, Japanese monk: Dogen Zenshi, asserted the belief that non-sentient beings shared the human ability to engage in discourse with the Buddhist Dharma, and were therefore not exempt from enlightenment. Dogen’s philosophical values extend to shojin ryori, one of many Japanese cuisines, though maintains the largest influence on food in the country. A common mantra of Zen Buddhism, spreading through 13th century Japan, was the belief in foods to provide balance, alignment to body, mind and spirit. Buddhist monks indulged in soybean-based foods, seasonal vegetables and wild mountain plants. Forbidden to slaughter animals for consumption, monks abstained from meat, fish or any animal product, believed to cloud the spirit and interfere with meditation. The ‘rule of five’ underlies shojin ryori meals, based on achieving nutritional balance and placing the body in balance with the seasons, by incorporating five colours and flavours into each meal. Common seasonal vegetables include: cucumber and tomato for refreshment in Summertime and root vegetables to warm the body in Winter. Buddhist monks preserve all components of local vegetables, including the tops and skins off carrots, radish leaves, out of respect for the natural environment. Knife Mastery Unique to Japanese cuisine is its cultural eating rituals and habits. Japanese chefs, who train for years, wield their artistic hands to create vigilantly prepared dishes, appealing to the senses as well as palate. Perhaps more reflective of an art form, than cooking, highly-skilled Japanese chefs dedicate laborious hours to rolling sushi with a bamboo rolling mats, grating daikon, grinding fresh sesame seeds, wielding clay cooking pots and simmering delicate fish with a wooden-drop lid (otoshi-buta). Mastering multiple knife techniques, chefs choose from an array of knives and cut entirely by hand: delicate slices of sashimi, wispy strands of daikon, flowers out of carrots and fish, beef and chicken into bite-sized pieces to be handled by chopsticks. Raw, simmered, fried, steamed, roasted or grilled, Japanese cuisine is presented on the plate with the utmost precision, the result of strenuous dedication, echoing a philosophy gratitudinous of the environment. Japanese Cuisine in Sydney Over the past few decades, Japanese cuisine has found a face in the international market. A boom in Japanese restaurants overseas, has attracting diverse audiences to sushi and noodle bars, to reap the benefits of the natural, nutritional dishes. Unfortunately, however, some of its authenticity has been lost along the journey. At the helm of Japanese eateries both small and large, chefs are often not of Japanese descent or properly trained in Japanese cuisine, and lean towards dishes that more closely resemble Chinese food, or take shortcuts and simply serve MSG-filled food. For an authentic Japanese culinary experience, Sydney-siders can opt for a professional-led class with ClassBento. Embark upon an appreciation of Japanese culture, begin a journey of health improvement, and choose from a range of classes with Yoshiko Takeuchi, who boasts over ten years cooking experience. Yoshiko has frequented some of Sydney’s top kitchens, specialising in Japanese vegetarian and vegan recipes, in a mission to promote a healthy and enriching lifestyle. Start with a beginner's course, or jump straight into in a Superfood Gyoza or Power of Miso cooking class. Learn how to make healthy alternatives to gyoza, miso and sushi minus the msg and deep-frying practices found in some restaurants. Form mounds of sushi rice, create nigiri and nori rolls whilst sipping on Japanese tea with other Japanese-food enthusiasts. Make tofu from soybeans, tempura or matcha green tea salt. Embrace the Buddhist lifestyle in a Shojin Ryori Vegetarian cooking class by Setsuko Yanagisawa and make mushroom tempura, lotus roots dishes, and much more, while relaxing your mind and spirit with tea and sake. Introduce yourself to a diverse range of Japanese ingredients, refine your skills and cleanse your body. Interested in making traditional Japanese sweets? Learn to make Japanese sweets in Sydney! ...

Creative After Work Activities in Sydney

Creative After Work Activities in Sydney

By ClassBento Team

After work drinks at the pub are great, but in an exciting young city like Sydney, there's lots more to do and explore in the evening hours especiallyAfter work drinks at the pub are great, but in an exciting young city like Sydney, there's lots more to do and explore in the evening hours especially if you're in need of rainy day activities in Sydney. Thanks to our local artists, who are willing to share their passion and expertise, we've got a huge variety of secret and less known things to do in Sydney this weekend. Creative workshops are lots of fun, relaxing, and can help you take a real mental break from the stresses of work and beyond, as well as encouraging you to maintain a better balance against digital addictions (aka a great way to start/stay on digital detox). Do something social - go out with some friends or your other half, or take the opportunity to build relationships with some colleagues or clients. Why not meet some like-minded friends-to-be (and maybe even a potential special someone)? Avoid getting stuck and wasting time in peak hour traffic. Take some time for yourself and zen out, and by the time you're done, all those commuters will be gone and you'll have a much smoother and easier time home. #travelhacks Our teachers are flexible and love to teach, so you're welcome to Request an after-hours workshop. Whether you're in Redfern, Marrickville, Rozelle or elsewhere, we'll have a creative class close to you. And if you'd like to spend some time after your usual work hours teaching and getting some additional income, we'd love to hear from you. Here are some of our favourites: Make a Kokedama or terrarium, in a beautiful Redfern floristry Draw a portrait, perhaps of someone you know (or keep it safe and do something more neutral), under the guidance of a professional illustrator Indulge in cheese, wine... and art of course, in a cozy Rozelle studio. Laugh, chat and create, with a talented artist Learn to make proper coffee in a barista or espresso class, or even jazz it up with a latte art class, with a world champion barista. Get physical and learn to juggle in one of Sydney's beautiful parks (perfect for those longer summer evenings). Take a photography class and develop both your technical skills as well as your artistic approach, with an experienced photographer (smartphones or DSLRs both welcome), in the gorgeous surroundings of The Rocks. It's a perfect time to hone your low-light / night photography skills in particular. ...

9 Reasons to Try Cooking Class in Sydney

9 Reasons to Try Cooking Class in Sydney

By John Tabari

Need a little convincing to try cooking classes in Sydney? From exploring different cultures to building confidence, here are 9 reasons to try cooking ...

Knife Painting Is Just Like Decorating a Cake

Knife Painting Is Just Like Decorating a Cake

By Sarah Hinds-Friedl

Discover this fun medium at painting classes in Sydney and create a textured art masterpiece!

Want to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint? Try Veganism

Want to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint? Try Veganism

By Cassandra Hawkings

Thinking about adopting a vegan diet? These vegan cooking classes in Sydney will teach you how to make easy vegan recipes at home!