Everything You Need to Explore at Vivid Sydney 2024

The Ultimate Guide to Vivid Sydney 2024: Food, Lights, Music, Ideas, and More

Vivid Sydney 2024 Dates: 24 May to 15 June 2024

With over three weeks of festivities, there are ample opportunities to experience the magic of Vivid and immerse yourself in its captivating ambiance.

Vivid Sydney is much more than just a light festival; it’s a convergence of creativity and technology, where art installations, music performances, and culinary delights come together to create an electrifying atmosphere. As one of the world’s largest festivals of light, music, and ideas, Vivid Sydney attracts millions of attendees each year, eager to witness the city transformed into a mesmerizing spectacle of colour and sound.

Key Highlights:

• Vivid Sydney Light Walk: Embark on a journey through Sydney CBD’s illuminated landmarks with the Light Walk, featuring 60 captivating installations by talented artists. Looking for where to start? Visit the Vivid Sydney website to get the ultimate 8km light walk guide starting from Circular Quay.
• Love Is In The Air, Drone Show – Circular Quay:  Join us on the 8th, 9th, and 15th of June at 9:10 pm for a celebration of love that illuminates the night with over 700 drones setting the stage for a captivating display of love and unity at Vivid Sydney 2024.  Love Is In The Air takes centre stage at Circular Quay.
• Lighting of the Sails – Echo – Sydney Opera House:  Marvel at the transformation of the iconic Sydney Opera House sails as they come alive with Julia Gutman’s interpretation of Ovid’s myth of Narcissus.
• Hika Rakuyo Laser Show – Cockle Bay:  Experience Cockle Bay in a whole new light as reflective dark water, brilliant lasers, and projections converge to unveil Hika Rakuyo, a breathtaking homage to Japanese philosophy. Running continuosly from 6pm to 10:45pm daily.
• Dark Spectrum, A New Journey – Wynyard Tunnels: Embark on an underground odyssey in the Wynyard Tunnels, where 300 lasers, 500 lanterns, and 250 searchlights create a mesmerizing spectacle across eight chambers, accompanied by an epic soundtrack.  Access the event via Wynyard Park.
• Vivid Fire Kitchen – The Goods Line: Indulge your senses at The Goods Line with street food from around the world, cooked on an open flame by masterful pitmasters. The fiery sensation of Vivid Sydney Fire Kitchen returns, setting ablaze its new location at The Goods Line with an irresistible array of flame-seared street fare from across the globe.

Immersive Light Installations, Artworks and Food Experiences

Get ready for an exhilarating Vivid Sydney experience featuring an array of breathtaking projections, including 40-kilometer-long laser beams lighting up the night sky. Prepare for electrifying concerts headlined by Budjerah, Mos Def, and Air, promising unforgettable musical performances. Dive into thought-provoking panels that explore a range of topics, stimulating conversation and reflection. Plus, indulge in the revamped Vivid Food program, which includes the beloved Vivid Fire Kitchen in an exciting new location, promising a fresh culinary adventure for all.

Unique Attractions and Experiences

• Hika Rakuyo Laser Show: Cockle Bay. Nightly from 6pm – 10:45pm  Experience Cockle Bay in a whole new light as reflective dark water, brilliant lasers, and projections converge to unveil Hika Rakuyo, a breathtaking homage to Japanese philosophy. This captivating artwork celebrates the concept of Hika Rakuyo, using flowers and falling leaves as symbols of life’s fleeting beauty. Through an immersive eight-minute holographic light and laser show, witness the narrative of native Australian flowers blossoming against the backdrop of the bay’s dark waters. Don’t miss this awe-inspiring spectacle, a mesmerizing testament to the ephemeral nature of life and our enduring bond with the natural world.
• Love Is In The Air, Drone Show: Circular Quay   Join us on the 8th, 9th, and 15th of June at 9:10 pm for a celebration of love that illuminates the night with its radiant glow. Against the backdrop of the night sky, over 700 drones weave a mesmerizing tale of love, forming universal symbols and intricate patterns that evoke the essence of human connection. Concept and direction by Gill Minervini sets the stage for a captivating display of love and unity at Vivid Sydney 2024. Guided by drone technology from ATN and accompanied by the vibrant soundtrack curated by Peewee Ferris, Love Is In The Air takes centre stage at Circular Quay. Though weather conditions may influence start times, the spirit of love will prevail, casting its spell on all who gather to witness this unforgettable spectacle.

• Lighting of the Sails: Echo – Sydney Opera House  Marvel at the transformation of the iconic Sydney Opera House sails as they come alive with Julia Gutman’s interpretation of Ovid’s myth of Narcissus. Wrapped in a patchwork of denim, hessian, and stitched scraps, Lighting of the Sails: Echo invites us into the enigmatic world of Narcissus, reimagining Roman poet Ovid’s myth through Julia Gutman’s textural masterpiece. Through dance, music, and puppetry, Echo explores themes of vulnerability and strength, urging us to confront our shadows and embrace our complexities. This digital translation of Gutman’s patchworks blurs the lines between self and other, inviting introspection and reflection on the limitations of self-awareness. Echo is a captivating tale that lingers in the mind, challenging us to delve deeper into our own consciousness long after the lights have dimmed.

• Light Walk: Embark on a journey through the CBD’s illuminated landmarks with the Light Walk, featuring 60 captivating installations by talented artists. Looking for where to start? Visit the Vivid Sydney website to get the ultimate 8km light walk guide starting from Circular Quay.  Iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and CBD are transformed by stunning projections and laser displays. Explore the theme of “Humanity” as you weave through Circular Quay to The Goods Line, experiencing the city’s metamorphosis into a vibrant spectacle of light and colour. Indulge in delicious meals from the Vivid Sydney Food program, delve into illuminating Ideas experiences, or groove to live Music performances along the way. Begin at Circular Quay or join the Light Walk at any point along the route, with The Goods Line offering a perfect starting point to enjoy dinner at Vivid Fire Kitchen before immersing yourself in the luminous journey. Look out for the neon Future Natives sculptures guiding your path as you wander through this dazzling display of creativity and artistry.
• Dark Spectrum – A New Journey – Wynard Tunnels  Descend into the depths of the Wynyard Tunnels for a journey through time and space, where past and present converge in a captivating spectacle of light and colour. Lose yourself in a realm of illusion, illuminated by 300 kaleidoscopic lasers, 500 handcrafted lanterns, and over 250 searchlights. This subterranean odyssey, spanning a kilometre and comprising eight distinct chambers, offers a sensory feast where light, sound, and colour collide in a mesmerizing dance. Guided by an epic soundtrack pulsating with dance tracks and club hits, you’ll be drawn deeper into the immersive experience, crafted by acclaimed international trailblazers Sony Music, Culture Creative, and Mandylights exclusively for Vivid Sydney 2024. Rediscover the thrill of illumination, unlock the mysteries of Dark Spectrum: A New Journey, and emerge enlightened. Access Dark Spectrum via the entrance and box office in Wynyard Park, between York Street and Carrington Street, with exit at Cumberland Street in The Rocks. Please note that the box office and event site operate on a cashless basis for your convenience.
• Vivid Fire Kitchen: The Goods Line  Indulge your senses at The Goods Line with street food from around the world, cooked on an open flame by masterful pitmasters. The fiery sensation of Vivid Sydney Fire Kitchen returns, setting ablaze its new location at The Goods Line with an irresistible array of flame-seared street fare from across the globe. Experience the universal allure of BBQ as we gather the finest international and local pitmasters to showcase their craft. Embark on a culinary journey through fire-cooked delights from tandoor to teppanyaki, First Nations tucker to hearty sausages, tender brisket to charred eggplant, and aromatic satay. Each night promises a multicultural feast for the senses. But there’s more—immerse yourself in the art of fire cooking with live demonstrations by leading chefs, who will impart their expertise and secrets, unveiling the magic of cooking over an open flame. Join us under the starlit sky at The Goods Line to savour flavours from around the world, fostering a sense of culture, community, and connection as we gather around the fire, honouring a tradition that has brought people together throughout history.
• Nest: Barangaroo    Experience the serene beauty of the brolgas’ mating dance at Stargazer Lawn in Barangaroo, surrounded by Leila Jefferys’ stunning art installation.  Step into the Nest, a vast circular structure, and observe the ritualistic mating dance of these majestic birds, projected onto a transparent surface. Lose yourself in the hypnotic spectacle of these larger-than-life cranes, pondering our profound connection to nature and its inhabitants. Allow your imagination to soar while remaining grounded in the present moment.
• Window Dressing: University of Technology Sydney  Peer into the lives of others with Liesel Badorrek’s Window Dressing installation at the University of Technology Sydney, offering a unique glimpse into imagined realities. Immerse yourself in Reg Mombassa’s surreal Australian landscape at Customs House, accompanied by a free performance.

Vivid Music and Cultural Performances

Vivid Sydney 2024 promises an electrifying lineup of live performances, concerts, and DJ sets across diverse venues, ensuring an unforgettable musical experience. The CBD’s Machine Hall Precinct serves as the epicentre of Vivid Music, welcoming international headliners and local favourites to its reimagined 100-year-old substation. Highlights include performances by US indie rockers Deerhoof, hyperpop artist Underscores, and legendary First Nations band No Fixed Address.

Carriageworks will host Yasiin Bey (Mos Def) for a two-night exploration of his music and activism, while the Sydney Opera House will feature Devonté Hynes with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, as well as celebrations of independent Aussie label Elefant Traks.

Vivid Live – The Musical Heartbeat of Sydney

Dance the night away at Darling Harbour’s Tumbalong Park, where free contemporary music performances will entertain audiences over 12 nights. This vibrant festival hub pulsates with energy as it hosts an exceptional lineup of international and local talent, treating audiences to unforgettable performances. From Thursday to Saturday evenings (and Sunday, June 9th), the stage comes alive with captivating live acts, while DJ sets keep the good vibes flowing on Sunday to Wednesday nights. Families can delight in the dedicated kids’ shows at Vivid Kids every Saturday evening at 5pm, ensuring fun for all ages. Explore the full lineup and prepare for an unforgettable journey into light, music, and magic at https://www.vividsydney.com/

Planning Your Visit

Vivid Sydney runs day and night, with the mesmerizing projections and Lights On spectacle illuminating the city between 6 pm and 11 pm. Prime viewing spots include the Sydney Opera House, The Rocks, Bradfield Park, and Darling Harbour.

For an optimal experience at Vivid Sydney, it’s essential to plan your visit strategically, especially considering the event’s popularity over its 23 nights. While Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday public holiday nights draw the largest crowds, families with young children may find quieter evenings during the week more accommodating, particularly earlier in the night.

Accommodations and Stay Tips

For those seeking to stay close to the action and energy of Vivid Sydney, Metro Hotels offers an array of conveniently located accommodations providing easy access to the festival’s events and installations. Situated in the heart of Sydney’s CBD, Metro Hotels Sydney CBD Hotels provide an ideal base for immersing yourself in the luminous festivities. From here, you can explore Vivid’s iconic landmarks and attractions with ease, ensuring you don’t miss a moment of the action. Alternatively, Metro Hotels Sydney Suburban Hotels offer a tranquil retreat away from the city centre, allowing you to experience the magic of Vivid while enjoying a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle. Whether you prefer the bustling atmosphere of the CBD or the serene surroundings of suburban Sydney, Metro Hotels ensures you’re never far from the excitement of Vivid Sydney.

Metro Hotels are excited to be part of the Vivid Sydney Local Business Program this year with a great range of Vivid Sydney Hot Deals at its locations across the city, from Darling Harbour to Ultimo and Central.

Transportation and Navigation Tips

Navigating transportation during Vivid is seamless with the extensive public transport network, offering additional services throughout the festival. With major road closures and parking restrictions, public transport is highly recommended. Ensure you have a valid Opal card or utilize contactless payment methods to streamline your journey.

Be mindful of changes to bus and light rail services due to road closures, and consider ferries as an alternative travel option, bearing in mind their popularity, especially on weekends. Major road closures commence from 5 pm each evening, lasting until 1 am, prompting motorists to avoid CBD travel and anticipate delays on detour routes.

For comprehensive details on each event, including dates, times, venues, and entry prices, consult the official website’s event program. Prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey into the brilliance of Vivid Sydney, filled with awe-inspiring displays and captivating experiences.

Vivid Sydney Family Friendly Guide

Immerse your little ones in the enchantment of Vivid Sydney at Darling Harbour! Tumbalong Park is set to become a magical playground, adorned with dazzling light displays and captivating entertainment tailored just for young adventurers.

Every Saturday at 5pm the Vivid Kids music program is on, where the stage ignites with FREE, family-friendly shows featuring talented performers and enchanting storytelling. Get ready to dance, sing, and create cherished memories with your loved ones as the night unfolds with vibrant energy throughout Darling Harbour. But the fun doesn’t end there! Explore the mesmerizing light installations, enjoy a scenic ferry ride, or indulge in delicious delights from harbourside restaurants. Vivid Sydney at Darling Harbour promises a complete experience for families. Dive into the magic and uncover even more dazzling experiences awaiting you. Explore the full lineup and prepare for a night to remember!

With these unique attractions and experiences, Vivid Sydney 2024 promises to be an unforgettable celebration of art, culture, and community. Whether you’re exploring the city’s landmarks bathed in light or indulging in culinary delights, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at this year’s festival. So, embrace the magic of Vivid and create lasting memories against the backdrop of Sydney’s illuminated skyline.

As the city comes alive with colour, sound, and creativity, let yourself be swept away by the brilliance of Vivid Sydney 2024.

Visit vividsydney.com for more event information.  Image Credits: Destination NSW