About WeLove
WeLove isn’t a traditional seated theatre or concert hall, but an underground dance-party brand based in Sydney’s nightlife district. Born in the mid-2010s, WeLove transformed into a regular club-night experience, often hosted within Darlinghurst venues like the multi-level Burdekin Hotel (2–4 Oxford St) or Aura Nightclub (16 Flinders St). It feels more like a boutique club takeover than a fixed building. Events routinely draw a few hundred dance music fans (the Burdekin’s main floor holds about 255 people (burdekin.com.au) and a secondary “mini bar” upstairs another ~140 (burdekin.com.au)). What makes WeLove notable is its focus on high-quality techno and house music, a vibrant crowd, and a community-driven vibe. The interior spaces themselves are character-rich – for example, the Burdekin Hotel’s ground floor features high ceilings, laser lighting and big LED screens, with distinctive art murals by local artist Le Grizz on the supports (burdekin.com.au). Together with a top-grade audio rig (see Sound System below), this creates an immersive club atmosphere. Over the years WeLove has built a loyal following among Sydney’s electronic music scene; it’s known for unpretentious, inclusive dance parties that appeal to both local underground DJs and visiting international names. In fact, a recent event listing referred to the Burdekin Hotel as “Sydney’s most iconic venue” for this scene (ra.co), highlighting the brand’s integration into Darlinghurst nightlife. Even globally, WeLove has grown to mark milestones like a 10-year anniversary party in 2025. In short, WeLove stands out as a beloved weekly nightlife experience in Sydney – a place where love of music and dance brings together a diverse crowd under colourful lights.
Events and Programming
WeLove specializes in electronic dance events, typically on Friday nights (usually 9–10pm start) running late into the early morning (often until 4am (www.ticketfairy.com)). The programming centers on house, techno and tech-house music. Each night features a lineup of local and international DJs and live acts. For example, past shows have included global guests like Spain’s Toni Varga (of elrow fame) (ra.co), Classica and Ravi Luchesi, as well as local stalwarts like Nick Reverse (WeLove’s founder) and Lili Joy. Lineups are often arranged in two rooms or floors: a larger “Main Room” on the ground floor and a smaller upper room (e.g. Burdekin’s mini-bar level) hosting additional DJs. Special themed nights and collaborations are common – Halloween costume parties, label showcases (like the WeLove Recordings release), anniversary bashes, etc. Music styles stay in the underground realm: expect pounding tech-house and progressive beats rather than pop or rock. The crowd is generally energetic and fashionably casual, with a mix of long-time clubbers and new attendees. Attendance in 2023–2025 appears strong; many nights sell out or have long queues. Ticket prices are very reasonable by club standards (see Tickets section below), and door covers often follow the “early bird” model (cheaper for early arrivals). Keep an eye on WeLove’s social channels or local event pages, as weekly flyers list the lineup, door times and cashless entry details. All in all, you can expect a quality city-club experience: vibrant lights, pounding Void sound system, and a marathon set of dance music that keeps catching fans’ feet on the floor week after week.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for WeLove events are sold in advance through the promoters or event pages – there is no traditional box office at the venue. Typically, each event is promoted on online platforms or social media a few weeks ahead, with a link to buy tickets. Early-bird prices are often cheaper; for example, one December 2022 flyer advertised $10 entry before 11pm (ra.co). As the night advances, the cover fee usually rises (for instance, $15 before 11pm, $20 after 11pm, $25 after midnight at a recent event (ra.co)). In practice, attendees can often buy tickets up until the show starts (or even do “on-the-door” if the event isn’t sold out), subject to capacity. The venue itself (like the Burdekin Hotel) does not maintain its own box office; all sales are online or at partner outlets. The key tip is to purchase tickets early for popular lineups to guarantee entry and the lowest price. Follow the official WeLove Sydney pages or email lists, as ticket links show up there. Group pre-sale codes and VIP packages sometimes appear, but always use verified channels to avoid scalper sites. No tickets are sold by third-party street vendors. There are no formal seating tiers – tickets are general admission, though VIP areas (like booth sections on upper floors) may be available by arrangement for private parties. For budget-minded visitors, arriving early often gets the lowest cover; late arrivals pay more. And yes, ID is checked at the door (see Policies) before issuing any ticket or stamp.
Seating and Layout
WeLove events are primarily standing-room affairs with just a few fixed seats or bar stools. The layout depends on the venue used: most commonly, a large dance-floor area in front of the DJ booth plus a full-service bar. For instance, at Burdekin Hotel the ground-floor “Main Bar” has the DJ booth centered, a dancefloor in front, and bench/bar seating at the sides and back (burdekin.com.au). A long bar runs perpendicular to the booth, so attendees can perch on stools or sip drinks while watching. Upstairs (the “Mini Bar” level) is smaller and more intimate: it also has a stage and some bar stools, but mostly becomes an overflow or chill-out space during a packed event (burdekin.com.au). Whichever floor you hit, the best spots for a dance experience are on the ground floor near the speakers – expect void bass thumping all around. If you want a view of the DJ, the middle of the floor is ideal, though crowded; standing by a side balcony or stairs can give perspective without being in the crush. Avoid setting up shop right in front of a speaker stack if you have sensitive hearing (headphones or earplugs are wise). In general, there is no bad angle to dance – the club’s acoustics are designed for the open floor. (Note: despite mention of “seats,” these events aren’t like a theatre. Most patrons stay on their feet. Those who want to rest can grab a stool or lounge chair if available on the periphery.) In short, think of WeLove as a nightclub rather than a seated concert: best viewing is on the move at center floor, and the vibe is communal and dance-centric.
Getting There and Parking
WeLove’s Darlinghurst events take place in the heart of Oxford Street, a major artery in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs. The main location is 2–4 Oxford Street, near Flinders Street (the Burdekin Hotel parking lot and main entrance are there). Public transport is convenient: the closest train station is Kings Cross (on the Eastern Suburbs & Illawarra Line), about a 5–10 minute stroll south along Darlinghurst Road. Sydney City buses run frequently on Oxford Street and down nearby William and College Streets – for example, routes 311 and 333 (linking Bondi, city and the University precinct) stop right near the club. If arriving by train from the city, one can get off at Martin Place or Kings Cross and change to a cross-town bus heading toward Bondi via Oxford. Sydney’s new Metro (M1) also connects to town hubs not far off (Wynyard to St James station), though direct metro access to Oxford St is still under development. For drivers, street parking in Darlinghurst tends to have time limits (meters, usually 2hr/zone) and enforcement through the night, so it’s often better to use a nearby car park. Public lots within a 5–10 minute walk include Riley Street Car Park (70 Riley St, about a 5-min walk) which charges around $2.50/hr (en.parkopedia.com.au), as well as Wilson-operated garages on Market St or at the Pullman Sydney Hyde Park hotel (both under 10 min walk) (www.parkopedia.com.au). The Holiday Inn Potts Point on Liverpool St likewise has paid parking (+ short walk). Rideshares (Uber/Ola) and taxis are a popular choice for late-night events; recommended drop-off is on Flinders Street near the club’s Oxford Street corner. In any case, allow extra time if driving, since traffic near the city edge can be slow, especially on Friday evenings.
Inside the Venue
Expect to pass through ID/security before entering – WeLove venues are strictly 18+ and will want to check photo ID at the door. Security staff will pat you down or check bags, and large bags or weapons are prohibited. Once inside, the atmosphere is dark, pulsing with music and light. Electro sound fills the air (WeLove uses a top-tier Void sound system known for its deep bass (www.ticketfairy.com)), and lasers or LED fixtures sweep across the crowd (burdekin.com.au). The crowd tends to be energetic and friendly – there’s no red carpet dress-code, so casual clubwear is fine (jeans and comfortable shoes are common). You’ll find bartenders serving cocktails, beer and non-alcoholic drinks all night. The venue kitchen remains open on club nights: Burdekin’s menu offers pub fare and $10 “pizza pockets” that stay available late (burdekin.com.au), so hungry dancers can grab a bite without leaving the party. High-top tables or bar chairs line the edges for those taking breaks, but most guests circulate with drinks in hand. Toilets are located on each level; the main bar floor has facilities downstairs, while the upper floor’s restrooms are adjacent to the dance area (burdekin.com.au). There’s no formal coat check, so it’s best to carry only essentials. Wi-Fi is usually not provided, but mobile reception is decent (allowing e-tickets to be scanned on phones at entry). Lastly, don’t be surprised if the crowd packs tightly after peak hours – late into the night it can be wall-to-wall. The vibe is fun and inclusive (WeLove has a strong LGBTQ+ following, for example, Sydney WorldPride once launched from the same venue (burdekin.com.au)). All in all, the inside experience is that of a modern underground club: loud music, flashing lights, a dancefloor crowd, and friends grabbing drinks at the bar.
Nearby Amenities
Darlinghurst’s Oxford Street is famous for dining and nightlife. For pre-show dinner or drinks, you’re spoiled for choice within a few blocks. Greek cuisine is popular (Santorini on Oxford, under 5 min south, has classic mezes), as are Italian spots like Clove Lane or Cilantros (north on Oxford). Casual options abound: small Thai and Vietnamese eateries line nearby streets, or grab a quick bite at a rooftop bar on Elizabeth or William Streets. If you need coffee or brunch the next morning, cafés on Oxford or William Street are open from early. Bars are everywhere – just east, the Oxford Hotel (Annapurna’s by day, bar by night) and The Australian Heritage Hotel offer casual pub ambience, while closer, The Saint (Sydney’s queer bar) and Kittyhawk are LGBTQ-friendly cocktail bars. Late-night, central Oxford has kebab shops and pizza counters that stay open for post-gig snacks. For those staying overnight, hotels are plentiful: Meriton Suites on Kent Street (7-min walk) and Rydges on York Street (10 min) put you near the action; boutique options in Surry Hills or Potts Point are also a short drive or bus away. Kings Cross and CBD accommodations are an easy train/subway ride back if you need a room. If you arrive well before showtime, plan an extra hour to eat or relax at a café. Many fans make a night of it – dinner in the area, hit WeLove, then end up at one of the afterparties or city late-night pubs after the crowd spills out at 4am. Taxis line up on Oxford for late departures, and the nearby Rydges/Darling Quarter area has 24-hour food outlets and coffee shops for hungry night owls.
What Makes This Venue Special
WeLove thrives on its unique blend of club-energy and local charm. Architecturally, the venues (especially the Burdekin Hotel) mix gritty heritage with modern club tech: think exposed brick walls and hanging plants paired with lasers and Void speakers (burdekin.com.au). Culturally, WeLove has become a Sydney institution of sorts. It’s known for fostering a sense of community among dance-music fans, often bringing people out on a workday’s end to “dance together and share the love,” as their motto goes. Legendary moments do happen here – headline DJs make pilgrimages to play these rooms, and local up-and-comers cut their teeth on this dance floor. For example, the rooftop space of Burdekin (one of Sydney’s longest-running entertainment sites) even hosted the launch of Sydney WorldPride in 2023 (burdekin.com.au), underscoring how the venue (and by extension, WeLove events within it) sits at the heart of Sydney’s LGBTQ night culture. Fans love WeLove for its authenticity – it feels more like a homegrown underground party than a polished corporate club night. Regulars cite the high-quality sound and lighting (“best clubs in Sydney” as DJMag once praised) and the way each event is tagged with WeLove’s heart symbol and “WeLove… do you?” slogan, making attendees feel part of an exclusive scene. In short, what sets this venue and its events apart is the full package: a historic Darlinghurst location, cutting-edge dance production, and a devoted crowd that turns every Friday into an all-night celebration of music and love.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The main entrance is on a city street sidewalk, so there’s a step up of a few stairs if it’s a heritage pub building, but wheelchairs can reach the ground floor dance area without barriers. The Burdekin has an internal elevator (up to the first-floor “Mini Bar” and to the rooftop) (burdekin.com.au), so upper-level areas remain accessible by lift. Most restrooms include a stall wide enough for a wheelchair. Entry staff are accustomed to handling assistive needs. If you have limited mobility, arriving early is advised to navigate entry smoothly.
ID and Age Rules: Enforceable 18+ rule – bring a valid photo ID (Australian driver’s license, passport or proof of age card) for each person. No minors or under-18s allowed, so this isn’t a venue for family or teen outings.
What to Bring/Not Bring: Carry your essential items only: wallet, phone, keys. Large crammed bags or coolers are not allowed. You’ll go through a quick security check and metal-detector wand. Flash photography is frowned upon (discreet smartphone photos are usually fine, just be considerate). There’s no onsite coat-check, so don’t bring bulky coats – if needed, check with coatroom facilities (if any) or leave extras in your car/hotel. A small crossbody bag or bum bag is ideal. Wear comfortable shoes – Windows come off but not needed.
Dress Code: Generally casual/nightlife attire. Jeans with a nice top or tee and sneakers are perfect. You’ll fit right in. Don’t wear work uniforms or explicitly offensive clothing (as per any club). Some nights get crowded, so avoid very loose or dangling items. If in doubt, any smart casual club wear (clean jeans, checked shirts, or simple dress) works. Costumes are encouraged on special theme nights (like Halloween).
Arrival and Queues: Doors typically open by 9–10pm. If your desired event is popular, arrive as early as possible to avoid long queues. Early arrivers not only skip the line but often catch reduced cover charges. The line usually forms on Oxford Street outside the venue. After 1–2 am, the queue may speed up or re-entry might be restricted, so plan accordingly. Keep some cash aside for the cover charge if they’taking at-door payment, though most places have smart scanners now.
On the Dancefloor: The music here is loud and energetic. Consider earplugs if you’re sensitive. Hydrate – there are water taps or bottle shops nearby (Darlinghurst has several late-night bottle shops) if needed. Watch personal belongings on the floor – as with any busy club, it’s wise not to leave stuff unattended. The crowd is generally friendly and inclusive; look out for each other and respect personal space.
After the Event: The music usually winds down at 4 am. Late-night transport options can thin out, so book an Uber or taxi in advance if possible. Kings Cross still has some late-night trains, and the NightRide bus system (e.g. N10 from town to Bondi) covers late hours – check schedules. If driving, be aware that many meters run from morning through late night (midnight or 2am) in the area; use a paid lot or risk a fine.
Finally, bring a spirit of fun and respect: WeLove is known for a “share the love” vibe, so joining in the dancefloor community is part of the experience. Relax, enjoy the music, and this iconic Darlinghurst party will be a night to remember.
