This page covers the topic of game day in sydney in the context of outdoor living in Australia.

For more on related topics, see the FAQ, the What we cover page, or browse the venues section for regional notes.

More context

Practical notes for AKP Images readers — game day in sydney. Write original copy for AKP Images, an independent, picture-led outdoor-living journal for Sydney and Australia (not a builder, franchise, installer or supplier, quotes and sells nothing, not affiliated with any carport, pergola or outdoor-structures company). Do not present the site as the organisation that used this domain before (an Australian carport and pergola franchise ()); do not invent dates, prices, names, credentials or awards. Reach us via the contact page.

Hosting game day outdoors: shade, shelter and space at home

For many Sydney households, game day is as much about the backyard as the stadium. Whether the match is a State of Origin night, a Saturday afternoon of footy or a summer Test, plenty of people watch from home with friends, and the outdoor area becomes the lounge room. How well that works depends largely on the structures and layout you already have.

Think about the time of day

Afternoon games in summer mean strong western sun, so a pergola with a solid or adjustable roof, or a verandah facing away from the late sun, makes a real difference to comfort and to screen glare. Winter night games are the opposite problem: cool air and dew. A covered deck with a windbreak on the prevailing side, plus outdoor-rated heating used according to the manufacturer's instructions, keeps guests outside longer.

Screens, power and weather

Setting up a television or projector outdoors works best under a roof that protects against rain and direct sun. Any permanent outdoor power points or lighting should be installed by a licensed electrician and rated for outdoor use. Portable screens should be kept well clear of pools and wet areas.

Space for a crowd

  • Seating: arrange chairs in a shallow arc facing the screen rather than in rows.
  • Food: keep the barbecue downwind of the viewing area and under cover if possible.
  • Movement: leave a clear path to the house and bathroom so people are not walking in front of the screen.
  • Neighbours: sound carries from open decks, so keep volume reasonable, especially for late finishes.

Heading to the ground instead

If you are going to a match in person, check the venue's official website for gate times, bag rules and ticketing, and plan public transport ahead, as services around major Sydney venues get busy before and after games. Sunscreen, a hat and water are sensible for day matches in open stands.

For more on choosing between pergolas, verandahs and decks for entertaining, see what we cover, or browse the gallery for ideas on covered outdoor spaces.