Vivid Sydney
26
May
17
Jun
Light, music and ideas

Vivid Sydney

Vivid Sydney will illuminate Darling Harbour with art, light, creativity and exploration.
When
Friday,
26 May 2023
Saturday,
17 Jun 2023

Vivid Sydney is Australia’s largest festival of light, music, ideas, and food. Held from 26 May – 17 June 2023, Vivid Sydney invites visitors to step outside the every day into nights full of wonder. This year’s theme, ‘Vivid Sydney, Naturally’, showcases the world’s brightest light artists, music makers, thought leaders and food creatives to ignite the city with their interpretation of what the natural world means to them.

Vivid Sydney will encourage you to observe awe-inspiring light art; tune in to heartfelt music performances; expand your universe through fascinating conversations; and taste the diversity of the city with all of your senses. Whether you're a photography enthusiast, art lover, or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure with the family, Vivid Sydney at Darling Harbour is a must-see event.

Plan ahead with our Vivid Sydney Light Walk Map and our guide to getting to Darling Harbour. 

LIGHTS

As the sun sets, across the city, Sydney will once again transform with lustrous light installations, and 3D projection artworks.Experience the mesmerizing magic of Vivid Sydney and ignite your senses with a dazzling spectacle of color, innovation, and imagination. Prepare for a feast of all the senses as some of Darling Harbour's iconic landmarks transform creating a playground of light.

Start your Vivid Sydney Light Walk at entry of Darling Square on Hay St, make your way through Tumbalong Boulevard and through Darling Quarter, where you'll find yourself at Cockle Bay Wharf to see the spectacular water display Elemental. 

Elemental

Combining 80 metre water shooters, flames, projection and pyro technics over Cockle Bay – this 10 minute water-show is an essential stop on the Vivid Light Walk. Catch the spectacular installation every night between 6pm and 11pm during Vivid Sydney.

MUSIC

Get ready to groove at Vivid Sydney's electrifying music program in Darling Harbour! The bullseye at the centre of Sydney's Darling Harbour, Tumbalong Park is your Vivid Sydney go-to for free and eclectic contemporary music, in the very heart of the Light Walk. Immerse yourself in a symphony of lights and beats, as world-class artists take the stage. Discover pulsating concerts, dazzling DJ sets, and breathtaking performances that will make your heart skip a beat. Join us for an unforgettable audio-visual spectacle at the heart of Sydney's vibrant entertainment scene. 

Tumbalong Nights

Every weekend from Friday 26 May to Saturday 17 June, Tumbalong Nights will light up Darling Harbour with an eclectic series of free concerts in the heart of the Light Walk for this year's Vivid Sydney. Catch 12 nights of live music, with some of the best acts from cult favourite Japanese producer and musician Cornelius, dream-pop musician Hatchie, rising Western Sydney star A.GIRL, RnB superstar Kaiit, plus London-based DJ and producer Esa Williams

 FREE for all, with an open invitation to dance!

 

Vivid Kids

Who said the adults should have all the fun? Round up the little ones and start your Light Walk journey in Tumbalong Park at 5pm each Saturday during the festival as the stage lights up with FREE children’s acts ahead of a night of live music.

Food Trucks

As you stroll through the illuminated streets, take a moment to savor the vibrant atmosphere of the Vivid Sydney festival! For those craving a quick bite to eat while exploring Darling Harbour's Light Walk, the delicious Food Trucks located beneath Pyrmont Bridge and Pier Street Overpass is the perfect way to fill those hungry bellies on your way! From authentic Italian cusiune, to delicious Gozleme, and irresistible desserts, these gourmet food trucks have something for every craving. And while you're here take a break in picturesque seating areas, surrounded by the twinkling lights of Vivid Sydney and the lively beats of live music!

Best restaurants & bars with Vivid Sydney views

Looking for things to do in Sydney? Enjoying a few drinks and soaking in the Vivid views at one of Darling Harbour’s best cocktail bars should be top of your list! To get your evening started we’ve concocted a list of the best restaurants and cocktail bars with stunning views of the show in Darling Harbour.

Getting to Darling Harbour

For more help getting around Darling Harbour, check out our Vivid Sydney Light Walk Map. And if you’re looking to expand your visit to Vivid Sydney, check out the incredible displays in The Rocks and Barangaroo.

Getting to Darling Harbour is easy, whether you’re walking, cycling, driving or catching public transport:

  • The train from the airport takes just 25 minutes. Get off at the Museum Station and walk less than 10 minutes
  • Light rail from the CBD leaves every 4 minutes. Get off at the Town Hall stop and walk less than 5 minutes
  • Cycling from the city takes less than 5 minutes. Take your bike over Pyrmont Bridge to see the ultimate view of Darling Harbour
  • Walking from the city takes just 10 minutes
  • Or there are several car parks throughout Darling Harbour if you’re driving.

For more help getting to Darling Harbour, check out our guide.