The local’s guide to Vivid Sydney 2025

Vivid Sydney is set to return in 2025 with more colour, creativity, and culture than ever before.

Running from Friday 23 May to Saturday 14 June, this year’s program once again transforms the city into a glowing canvas of light installations, live music, thought-provoking talks, and immersive experiences.

If you’re planning to head into the city, here’s your guide to navigating the best of what Vivid has to offer.

Light up your night

At the heart of Vivid Sydney is its mesmerising light program, with iconic landmarks and hidden corners of the city bursting into luminous life after dark.

The Lighting of the Sails at the Sydney Opera House remains a must-see, with this year’s projection art an interplay of texture, colour, emotion, and concept, reflecting the artist’s punk, queer sensibility.

Wander through Circular Quay to discover large-scale installations and interactive artworks along the foreshore, then make your way through The Starscape Tunnel at Barangaroo – a crowd favourite featuring thousands of LED lights creating a shimmering, star-studded journey beneath the night sky.

At Neon Dreams, a 1979 mail plane has touched down at the Pier Street underpass in Darling Harbour, delivering a retro-futuristic roller disco diner. Step into a dreamscape of bold American flavours, vinyl-spun beats, roller skates, and wild-foraged botanical cocktails. It’s a nostalgic, family-friendly experience perfect for photos and fun memories.

Turn up the volume

Vivid Music brings another layer of energy to the city, with a line-up spanning intimate gigs to major headline acts. Expect a mix of local talent and international names across genres including indie, jazz, electronic and soul. Popular venues like Carriageworks, Powerhouse Museum, and Tumbalong Park will host live sets, DJ sessions, and curated music nights.

Look out for Pasifix, a celebration of contemporary Pacific sounds and culture, bringing vibrant rhythms and powerful performances to the heart of Tumbalong Park.

If you prefer something a little different, check out Fly to the Moon, an immersive music and light show experience that blends original score with space-themed visuals for a multisensory journey through the cosmos.

Expand your mind

Vivid Ideas dives into big conversations around creativity, innovation, and the future. From keynote speakers to panel discussions and workshops, it’s a chance to engage with changemakers and visionaries from around the world. Many of the talks are held at UTS, MCA, and the State Library, with topics this year exploring everything from climate action to the future of AI in art.

Top of the list is In Conversation with Martha Stewart, where the lifestyle icon shares her journey through entrepreneurship, creativity, and building a global brand.

Another thought-provoking session is Where Do Ideas Come From?, an exploration of the origin of creativity featuring thinkers, artists and innovators.

Feast your senses at Vivid Fire Kitchen

New in 2025, Vivid Fire Kitchen lights up The Goods Line with world-class pitmasters and chefs serving flame-cooked street food inspired by cuisines from around the world. With live demos, fire pits, and themed menus, it’s the perfect warm-up before diving into the light displays or catching a show.

Where to see the lights

You’ll find Vivid events spread across multiple precincts, each with their own unique style and showcase. Some of the key locations include:

Circular Quay & The Rocks: Home to the Opera House, Harbour Bridge lighting, and dozens of street-level installations

Barangaroo: A mix of light sculptures, immersive tunnels, and waterfront viewing spots

Darling Harbour: Featuring spectacular light and water shows set to music

Central Station & The Goods Line: Connecting light installations with food stalls and pop-up performances

Tips from a local

• Visit mid-week to avoid the heaviest crowds.
• Start at Barangaroo and walk towards Circular Quay for a natural build-up to the Opera House light show.
• Catch public transport – extra services run during Vivid and road closures are common.
• Bring comfy shoes and a jacket – you’ll be walking a lot and evenings can get chilly.
• Book ahead for music and talks as many of the popular sessions sell out early.

Make a night of it

Dining during Vivid is part of the experience. Local favourites like Opera Bar, Barangaroo House, and The Glenmore in The Rocks offer stunning views of the light shows alongside seasonal Vivid-themed menus. Or grab a bite from the food trucks and pop-up stalls dotted along the festival trail.

Whether you’re heading in for one night or soaking it all in across the three weeks, Vivid Sydney 2025 promises something for everyone. Let the city light up your night.

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