Legendary Sydney Club ARQ Returns After a Three-Year Hiatus

ARQ Sydney, one of the city’s longest-running nightlife hubs and a pillar for queer nightlife, is returning after a three-year-long hiatus. After endless months of silence and mystery, the LGBT+ temple confirmed it would be back on the clubbing map from December 16th with a multimillion-dollar refurb.

The electronic-fueled nightclub withdrew from the scene when pandemic restrictions wrecked the nightlife sector. Most Sydney clubs and bars rose from the COVID-19 slump, but ARQ didn’t reopen post restrictions.

With a better late than never motto, the 23-year-old Oxford Street club started teasing its rebirth on social media in mid-October. While past features like the spa and sauna will remain ARQ staples, there will be a fresh sound system, an arcade-style game room, and a cocktail lounge. 

On the opening night, party-goers will be in for an eclectic-meets-raunchy program of drag performances, DJ sets, aerialists, and pyrotechnics. 

According to QNews, ARQ owner Shadd Danesi said that he decided to reopen the club to reclaim its position “as the jewel in Oxford Street’s crown.” 

“The iconic legacy of ARQ lies within our team’s passion for the entertainment industry and the overwhelming support from the community, which we are endlessly thankful for.”