WATERFRONT venue for Galas, Balls and Formals in manly, nsw

Host up to 300 guests at Manly’s newest waterfront destination for galas, balls and formals.

Set on the northern end of Sydney Harbour, Manly Wharf Events offers a refined and elegant backdrop for black-tie celebrations, fundraising galas, awards nights and formal soirées, all just a scenic ferry ride from Sydney CBD.

Designed to impress from first arrival to final toast, our spaces combine atmosphere, flexibility and impeccable hospitality, creating an experience that feels seamless, polished and memorable for you and your guests.

Our space can be tailored to suit a range of formal event styles, including charity and fundraising galas, black-tie balls, formal dinners, awards nights, presentation evenings, university formals and graduation celebrations, and cultural, civic and society events.

balls, galas & formals

300

Maximum capacity

20 minutes

From Sydney CBD

AV

In-house infrastructure

DINING worthy of a gala, ball or formal

Food and beverage plays a central role in shaping the tone of your gala. Our menus are thoughtfully curated to complement the flow of your event, from elegant pre-dinner moments through to the final course or late-night celebration.

Options for your gala, ball or formal include:

  • Seated dinners

  • Shared feasting or alternate-drop menus

  • Pre-dinner canapé and champagne receptions

  • Premium beverage packages or curated wine pairings

Every menu is designed to enhance the experience while maintaining a smooth flow throughout the evening.

STYLED for galas, balls or formals

Designed to reflect its harbourside location, the space balances refined detailing with an open, light-filled feel, creating an atmosphere that is elegant without feeling overdone.

For your gala, ball or formal, the waterfront backdrop and considered interior finishes provide a naturally elevated setting that requires minimal styling, while still allowing you to personalise the space to suit your vision.

Popular styling elements include:

  • Long-table or round-table gala dining

  • Staging for awards, presentations and speeches

  • Dance floors and live entertainment

  • Lighting and theming

The result is a setting that feels distinctly Sydney. Polished, welcoming and perfectly suited to memorable gala and formal events.

Extend the experience
at Manly Wharf

Located within the Manly Wharf precinct, your gala or formal can extend beyond the main celebration.

Guests can:

  • Arrive by ferry for a standout first impression

  • Enjoy sunset cocktails by the harbour

  • Move between spaces as the evening evolves

  • Continue celebrations within the precinct

  • Enjoy a vibrant destination-style event without leaving Sydney

This creates a destination-style experience that encourages guests to linger, connect and enjoy the waterfront long after the first drink is poured.

The details

  • Oval tables - 300 guests
    Long tables - 272 guests
    Cocktail - 300 guests

  • Lunch between 11am & 3pm

    Dinner from 6:30pm

    • Exclusive open-plan event space overlooking the picturesque Manly cove

    • On-site event coordination

    • On-site dining and post-event options

    • AV support

    • Fully furnished with linen, cutlery, glassware, round or long tables, stage and dance floor

    • Flexible layouts for dining, dancing & speeches

    • Private bar and outdoor terrace

    • Seamless guest arrival via ferry, foot or road.

ENQUIRE ABOUT GALAS, BALLS or EVENTS TODAY

We’d love to help bring your gala, ball or formal to life. Our dedicated Events Team is here to answer your questions, guide you through the planning process, and ensure every detail is perfect.

Please note, all catering and beverages are provided exclusively by our in-house team to ensure quality, safety, and compliance.