Vivid Sydney 2024 - More Than Just Lights

The most popular Australian city will be all dazzling and shimmering very soon! That's right! Vivid Sydney, the annual light and sound fest, with its Light Walk, illuminated cruises on the harbour, projections on the Sydney Opera House and so much more, is around the corner. And it only gets bigger and better with each passing year! For those unversed, Vivid Sydney is the 'land down under's' largest festival that involves light, sounds, culture, and immersive experiences. The whole Vivid Sydney experience includes Vivid Light, Vivid Music, Vivid Ideas and even Vivid Food.

When Does Vivid Start in Sydney?

Vivid Sydney, the light, music, food, and creative show returns to Sydney from May 24 to June 15, 2024.

Where Are the Best Places to See Vivid Sydney?

Vivid Sydney transforms Sydney's cityscape into a vibrant kaleidoscope of lights. The festival unfolds across 11 distinct city zones, each offering its own unique charm. The heart of the action is, of course, in iconic locations like Circular Quay, The Rocks, and Barangaroo, where mesmerizing light installations and captivating projections capture hearts. Other locations include the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, the historic Wynyard Tunnels, and the vibrant Carriageworks arts precinct. But Vivid Sydney's reach goes beyond the traditional downtown core, offering memorable experiences in other areas as well, which are quite enthralling.

Vivid Sydney Map

The show map can be accessed on the official Vivid Sydney website. This map can help you plan your Vivid Sydney experience efficiently and navigate through the different areas, so you don't miss out on any of the mesmerising light artworks.

Vivid Attractions You Just Can't Miss!

Even though the entire city lights up, and there's some activity happening everywhere, there are some attractions that aren't worth missing if you are in Sydney for Vivid.

Vivid Darling Harbour Light Show

If you're ready for an amazing 10-minute spectacle, dive into "Elemental" at Darling Harbour. Every half hour from 6pm to 11pm, witness Cockle Bay transformed by a mesmerising dance of fire, water, earth, and air. Towering jets of water erupt 80 meters high, interlaced with flames, captivating lights, and even fireworks. Beyond its dazzling display, "Elemental" embarks on a journey through time, from the origins of our planet to the present day.

Feel the fire's warmth, the water's refreshing touch, the earth's enduring strength, and the air's gentle caress. Breath-taking music and lights accompany the show, leaving you breathless with wonder for the natural world.

Vivid Wynyard Tunnels

To spark your imagination, hidden tunnels beneath Wynyard Station are awakened, and transformed into a vibrant world of light and sound for Vivid Sydney. This "Dark Spectrum," promises a 900-square-meter journey through eight unique rooms, each using lasers, robots, and dazzling visuals to bring human emotions and experiences to life. Not afraid to be constricted into a small space? Enter a room with 150 interactive LED pipes. Craving pressure? 50 mirrored arches create an endless tunnel illusion. Yearning for connection? Strings of light and luminous plants respond to your movement in a mesmerising, alien-like landscape.

There's something for everyone! So, step off the beaten path and get into the luminous unknown at Wynyard.

The Rocks Vivid Sydney

Enter the dazzling world of sights, sounds and tastes at The Rocks Night Markets transformed by Vivid Sydney! Foodies and culture vultures, rejoice! Indulge in an unforgettable sensory adventure with live music, vibrant lights and a delicious array of cuisines. From sizzling African BBQ to fresh Vietnamese banh mi, tantalise your taste buds with unique offerings from local vendors. Don't forget to treat yourself to sweet delights from Gelato for the perfect ending.

But the feast doesn't stop there! Explore stalls brimming with handcrafted treasures - skincare, jewellery, fabrics and candles - all bathed in the magical glow of Vivid. Quench your thirst at pop-up bars, and let the free live music by local artists fill the air. Get swept away by the electrifying atmosphere and lose yourself in this vibrant market wonderland.

Keen to explore more of the Rocks? Embark on a Vivid Sydney Light & Photography Tour to capture more memories.

Vivid Sydney Carriageworks

Vivid Sydney literally comes to life at Carriageworks with a feast for the senses! Once here, get ready for a vibrant journey as Carriageworks transforms into something magical. Immerse yourself in a diverse programme of music and food, designed to tantalise your senses. Expect theatrical live shows and dazzling productions that will transport you to captivating worlds.

The beloved Carriageworks Night Market, curated by renowned sustainable chef Matt Stone, serves delicious bites from over 50 of Sydney's top restaurants, bars, and producers, all under one roof.

Barangaroo Vivid

Feeling drained after exploring the dazzling lights of Vivid? Take a break and recharge at The Streets of Barangaroo. They've got a delicious spread of specially crafted "Vivid" food and drinks waiting to tantalise your taste buds and fuel your energy. Dive into colourful creations inspired by the festival and get ready to be amazed with every bite and sip.

Vivid Sydney Circular Quay (Written in the Stars - Vivid Drone Show)

Travel on an incredible adventure across the starry expanse above. Our solar system awaits, with the Sun as our starting point and the mighty Jupiter as our ultimate destination. Buckle up for unexpected detours and encounters with fascinating celestial neighbours. For ages, humans have been drawn to the sky, seeking direction and wonder amidst the twinkling stars and faraway planets.

Ancient constellations serve as celestial maps, while modern minds, from astronomers to artists, search for meaning and inspiration in the cosmos. The vastness of space fuels the imaginations of creators and scientists, propelling them towards artistic and technological breakthroughs. Witness a dazzling spectacle unfold live from the vibrant city of Sydney! What untold stories will you discover written in the stars? No one knows yet.

Vivid Cruises Sydney

Want to experience Vivid Sydney in a unique way? Ditch the crowds and hop on an intimate catamaran cruise to explore Darling Harbour or Circular Quay! From dinner cruises to BYO options, there’s one for everyone. Traveling with a group? Consider a Vivid Jet Boat ride (it slows down for photos too!), a bar crawl, or for an unforgettable experience, a helicopter cruise; there are tonnes of options for every cruise lover.

Disco Peeps Silent Disco Walks

Silent Disco Party Walks are Sydney's hottest new craze. A trend that started at the dazzling Vivid Festival is now a weekly thing. These walks happen through awesome parts of Sydney, from the city centre to stunning beaches. The hosts are your party guides, keeping the energy high. There are specially made playlists with latest top tracks and classic favourites, guaranteed to get you grooving the whole way.

The hosts even lead dance battles and teach you some moves. A one-of-a-kind, electrifying experience is created for everyone, locals and visitors alike.

Take Back a Kaleidoscope of Memories

Irrespective of where and how you choose to witness the amazing festival of lights, as the final embers of the light installations fade and the last echoes of music dissipate, Vivid Sydney leaves an indelible mark on your memory. Especially with Pelago's diligently curated experiences, from the immersive wonder of interactive projections to the awe-inspiring scale of illuminated landmarks, you will enjoy the festival that paints the city in a tapestry of hues and emotions, leaving you yearning for the next chapter in this luminous story.

Commonly Asked Questions

Where is Vivid Sydney Festival held?

Vivid Sydney Festival is held throughout the city of Sydney, with major installations and projections concentrated around Circular Quay, The Rocks, Darling Harbour and Barangaroo.

What can I expect to see at Vivid Sydney Festival?

Vivid Sydney Festival is popular for its large-scale light installations, projections onto buildings and landmarks and outdoor artworks. You can also expect to find a variety of live music performances, talks, workshops and other events happening throughout the festival.

How much does it cost to attend Vivid Sydney Festival?

Many of the Vivid Sydney Festival events are free to attend, including most light installations and projections. However, some events, such as live music performances and talks, may require ticketed entry.

What are the best times to visit Vivid Sydney Festival?

The festival is open from dusk until midnight each night, so you can visit at any time that suits you.

Is Vivid Sydney Festival accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes! Many of the major installations and events are wheelchair accessible, and there are a number of accessibility features available, such as Auslan interpreters and audio descriptions.