This year's Vivid Sydney is set to be a dazzling and unique affair. On top of its famous precincts such as Circular Quay and the Royal Botanic Gardens it's opened up some new and exclusive sights of Sydney.
One in particular that has made waves through the channels is the abandoned railway tunnels beneath Wynyard Station. Coined Dark Spectrum this installation transforms these underground rooms into something akin to a dance floor, filling them with light and sound.
In total there are 12 precincts to explore, each with their own unique installations and characteristics:
Barangaroo
Carriageworks
University of Technology, Sydney (UTS)
Circular Quay and The Rocks
Darling Harbour
Darling Quarter
Darling Square
Royal Botanic Gardens
Sydney CBD and surrounds
Sydney Opera House
The Goods Line
Walsh Bay
Getting into Sydney: Best flights
If you currently live in another state or territory, May-June is a great time to fly into Sydney. In addition to experiencing the wonders of Vivid, you can also score cheaper accommodation and flights compared to the summer months.
Here are the cheapest flights into Sydney from each major airport:
Love Is In The Air: This spectacular drone show is the biggest in the Southern Hemisphere exploring themes of humanity, love and compassion. See it at Circular Quay on 8 June, 9 June and 15 June.
Lighting of the Sails. Always a highlight, this year the Sydney Opera House sails come to life dressed in the textural artworks of Julia Gutman.
Connection: Step into a technicolour, immersive forest of LED ropes and interactive posts designed by New Zealand artist Angus Muir. See it at Hickson Road Reserve.
Vivid House: 4 artworks converge in this 360° experience. Housed within a hidden cove you'll journey through nature from its mountain peaks to its infinite oceans. See it at The Cutaway.
Lightscape: Carving a 2.1km pathway through the The Royal Botanic Garden, Lightscape transforms the natural world into a wonderland of giant flowers, electrifying trees and glowing tunnels. This is a ticketed event that should take you 90 minutes to experience. See it at The Royal Botanic Garden.
The Last Ocean: This dynamic ice sheet shifts throughout the day, beginning as an iceberg of blue and white before being kicked up by your movements, stirring up the seas and changing its form. See it at Barangaroo.
Lightscape 2024: Is it worth it?
There was a lot of chatter last year about Lightscape at The Royal Botanic Garden. It marked the first time this precinct required payment to enter: $38 for adults and $128 for families of 4. Is the cost worth the experience?
Finder's former travel editor Stephanie Yip went in 2024 this is what she thought.
I went with my family of 3 and was completely in awe by the light displays and the musical accompaniments. Flowers bloomed above my head dancing to pop-music, a whale fluke up dived in a sea of mesmerising dots and neon lights drew a tree into reality.
As suggested, it took 90-minutes to complete the walk. This included a pit-stop for food.
On top of a unique experience, I loved how quiet the walk was. I never felt rushed or that I was clambering to get a good angle on an installation. The walk was easy and pram and mobility-aid friendly.
With a toddler this made for a relaxing Vivid night-out.
As for the price-tag? Considering the exhibit was free in previous years it's a hard pill to swallow.
To its credit it does feel as though there are more installations than usual, and they are to a larger scale. Then there's the musical curation, which is absolutely flawless.
It truly is a VIP and stress-free way to enjoy Vivid, particularly considering how crowded the event has become. If that's worth $40 to you, go for it.
Vivid experiences: Things to do at Vivid Sydney 2024
Want to do more at Vivid then the typical program of light walks and talks?
There are stacks of events and experiences from cruises and helicopter rides to feasts and tower walks so you can experience Vivid from a new perspective.
Creators, public figures and industry leaders are booked to discuss ideas that matter during the Vivid Sydney festival.
To date 60 talks and workshops have been scheduled featuring a rich assortment of artists, musicians and thought leaders. This year, the programme will explore human and physical nature.
Highlights include
SWF Great Debate: AI is Better Than the Real Thing. Team captains Annabel Crabb and David Marrwill will debate whether artificial intelligence is better than the real thing alongside teammates Matilda Boseley, Rhys Nicholson, Tracey Spicer and Toby Walsh. Adjudicated by Yumi Stynes.
On Aboriginalia & Archiving & Working with Racist Materials. A panel discussion of artists and historians speaking to their respective practices as they pertain to the handling of Aboriginalia and historic material contributing to the subjugation of First Peoples.
Public speaking course. This course will involve a deep dive into how you can present more effectively through simple yet powerful changes to your body language covering topics like speechwriting fundamentals, tips for thinking quickly on your feet and how to handle nerves.
More workshops and events to come. Bookings can be made via the Vivid Sydney website.
Vivid Music
Over 50 live shows are set to reach our ears for Vivid Sydney 2024.
Under Vivid Music is the original Vivid Live series. This is centred around the Sydney Opera House and is packed with stars including Arca, Air, Moon Safari, Underworld, Devonté Hynes, Snoh Aalegra and Yung Lean. All tickets can be purchased through Ticketek.
The wider Vivid Music explores Sydney, cropping everywhere, including Circular Quay, The Goods Line and Timbalong Park. Events can be ticketed or free.
Here's the full line-up for Vivid Music 2024:
Sydney Opera House
Air (performing Moon Safari)
Arca
Barkaa
Barney Kato presents Alien feat. Radioactive Man, Mark N, au4r33y & Magda Bytnerowicz
Bumpy
Club Mince
Cult Shφtta
Devonté Hynes with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra: Selected Classical Works
dstreet (with Mad Miran, Piezo and Kate Miller b2b Emelyne)
Elefant Traks: The Finale (with Hermitude, The Herd, OKENYO, Horrorshow, ANESU, The Last Kinection, Urthboy & more)
Fever Ray
Fred P
Jlin
jonatan leandoer96 x Frederik Valentin, Ecco2K, oqbqbo & Scandinavian Star, Aya Gloomy
K-Indie Music Fest (with Silica Gel + sunwoojunga)
Mallrat + Tiffi
Sounds of Afrobeats
Teenage Joans + Lola Scott
The Push
VIVID Kids (with Buuja Buuja Dance, The Beanies, Formidable Vegetable and The Quokkas)
Wildfire Manwuurk + Battlesnake
Machine Hall Precinct:
Black Milk
Club 4A
Deerhoof
Jen Cloher
Ngulmiya
No Fixed Address
The Grand Silky Ball
The Huxleys present Personality Crisis
Underscores
Windchill
Vivid Sydney food
A visit to one of Australia's acclaimed festivals requires a pit stop for dining. On the plus side there's a plethora of top-notch restaurants, cafes and food trucks that pave the Vivid pathway.
Some even offer special Vivid menus and deals to make the journey that much brighter.
Our picks of food options at Vivid
Vivid Sydney food stalls: Found at the Overseas Passenger Terminal, Circular Quay and Royal Botanic Gardens, these offer an affordable meal that's easy to eat while walking and are all part of the festival experience.
The American Express Vivid Constellation Lounge: Every year American Express cardholders (and one of their mates) are given a VIP space at Cruise Bar on level 3 of the Overseas Passenger Terminal. On top of sweeping harbour views they're treated to free live music. Available every night from 5:30–10:30pm. Details for 2024 have yet to be confirmed.
6HEAD: Commanding one of the best harbourside views for a food outlet, this steakhouse nestled in an 1839 heritage building will inject some history into your evening.
Sydney Harbour Cruise aboard MV Sydney 2000: While more than a handful cruises include meals the one to beat is the Penfolds Degustation dinner. Onboard you'll delight in a 6-course menu complete with Penfolds' gold collection of bin and vintage wines. Plus, you'll snag those stellar views from a premium spot. Book through RedBalloon.
Opera Bar: It's the best seat in the house, right under the lit-up sails and looks out overlooking the Harbour Bridge and Luna Park. Open from 11am until late.
Vivid Chef Series: Part of the new Vivid Food program, the Vivid Chef Series sees international chefs collaboate with local top chefs. The result? Unique and delicious fusion focused menus. Think baby popcorn with smoked misco and barbequed bamboo with Tascan kale. Seatings are available from 4-17 June 2024.
Vivid Fire Kitchen: Experience flame-seared street food from around the globe at The Goods Line with BBQ creations from renowned chefs Shalamar Lane, Christine Manfield, Mindy Woods, Jess Pryles, Oscar Solomon and more. Tandoor, teppanyaki and First Nations food are just some of the options on offer.
Where to stay during Vivid Sydney
Avoid the madness of Sydney transport and make the CBD your home base. There are some beautiful hotels in the city that usually have some great views of the lights too. Some, for example the Novotel Sydney Central is having a VIVID-themed package deal which includes a bottle of wine for the adults and soft drinks and glow sticks for the kids. Psst – it even has an illuminated ball pit in the lobby.
Visit early on Mondays and Tuesdays: As they're working days they tend to be the quietest and there's a greater chance you'll have that installation all to yourself.
Avoid the weekends, including Friday night: They're the peak days and are often swamped with the after-work crowds, families and visitors.
Bring your own food: While the call of neon-lit specials is high, the price tag is also. Budget-savvy Vivid visitors can bring their own food to the festival.
Catch the free events: The light installations aren't the only freebies going around. There are stacks of ideas and music events strewn throughout the city that are free to attend. Tumbalong Park in particular is hosting Vivid nights throughout the show.
Frequently asked questions about Vivid Sydney 2024
Is Vivid Sydney on in 2024? When is it?
Yes. Vivid Sydney will return in 2024 for 23 nights from 24 May – 15 June 2024.
Is Vivid Sydney free?
Yes, Vivid Sydney's displays are completely free to access. However, events such as Vivid Live performances, Vivid Ideas talks and Lightscape at the Royal Botanic Gardens are paid events. Extra experiences such as cruises and bridge climbs require an admission fee, too.
Can I get a refund?
No. Refunds are not available for purchased events.
Where is Vivid Sydney?
Vivid Sydney can be found in various precincts and locations across Sydney CBD. These are:
Barangaroo
Carriageworks
Central Station and The Goods Line
Circular Quay and The Rocks
Darling Harbour
Darling Quarter
Darling Square
Royal Botanic Gardens
Sydney CBD and surrounds
Sydney Opera House
University of Technology, Sydney (UTS)
Walsh Bay
What time does Vivid start?
The Vivid Sydney light displays turn on at 6pm each night during the festival and are turned off at midnight.
How long does Vivid last?
The festival runs for 22 days.
How does Vivid Sydney work?
Vivid Sydney is a free outdoor event held throughout the Sydney CBD. Essentially it's a giant open-air gallery. You can wander around and check out light-based displays and illuminations created by a range of artists between 6pm and midnight, when lights turn off.
There are guides available. Each attraction is signposted and explains what it is you're looking at and who created it.
Are there many road closures during Vivid?
Many roads leading towards Circular Quay and The Rocks will be closed or restricted during the event. Given those limitations and the road closures throughout the city, it's recommended to take public transport. There will be increased services available during the event and the ferries will be illuminated each night from 6pm.
Can I do a Vivid Sydney Harbour Bridge climb?
Yes. The twilight and night-time bridge climbs are available during Vivid.
Do you have any tips on how to photograph Vivid?
If night photography isn't your forte, it pays to read some online guides prior to attending the event. Unless you are taking photos in the distance, we would steer clear of night modes on your phone - the lights from the show will provide plenty of natural illumination.
Where should I park?
These are the closest parking lots to the attractions. However, public transport is advised as select roads close due to the event.
For Darling Harbour and Barangaroo access:
Secure Parking Hilton Sydney Car Park
Secure Parking Kent Street
Wilson Parking on Sussex Street
Wilson Parking on Kent Street
Secure Parking – Allianz Centre Car Park
Secure Parking on Shelley Street
Divvy Parking on Shelley Street
For Circular Quay access:
Divvy Parking on Macquarie Street
Wilson Parking 37 Pitt Street
Secure Parking – Aurora Place Car Park
Wilson Parking George Street
Secure Parking – 20 Bond Street Car Park
Wilson Parking Quay West
Are drones allowed?
The use of drones is prohibited in Sydney Harbour and the Sydney CBD. You also cannot fly over people or at night. If you're caught using a drone during the Vivid Festival you could face an on-the-spot fine of $1,375.
Available on activities like hot air balloon flights, skydiving, lunch cruises, passes to attractions including Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park, SkyPoint Observation Deck, SEA LIFE Aquarium, Madam Tussauds and more. Minimum spend of $300 is required. T&Cs apply.
Available on select dates on destinations including Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne, Perth and Hobart. Minimum spend of $300 required. Activities include hot air balloon flights, skydives and high teas. T&Cs apply.
Available when you spend a minimum of $250 on activities such as hot air balloon flights, rally driving, skydives, high teas and more. Destinations include Sydney, Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Melbourne, Perth and Hobart. T&Cs apply.
Deal
New Year's Eve Cruise in Sydney Harbour with buffet and bar from $950
Enjoy your New Year's Eve at Cruise in Sydney Harbour with a buffet and bar from $950 at RedBalloon. It includes a six-hour cruise on Sydney Harbour, a delicious five-course buffet dinner with seafood, a premium open bar including spirits, and more. T&Cs apply.
Available on activities including skydives, whale watching cruises, day tours and getaways. Must purchase 2 or more vouchers. Destinations include Gold Coast, Cairns, Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. T&Cs apply.
Available on selected accommodations in Cairns, Port Douglas, Gold Coast, Whitsundays, Darwin, Melbourne, Sydney, Queenstown, Adelaide and Dubbo. Limited time offer. T&Cs, exclusions apply.
Save on your Cairns relocation campervan rental when you book at JUCY for as low as $1 per day. Destinations include Brisbane and Sydney through JUCY Crib+. T&Cs apply.
Available on select travel dates across Brisbane, Perth, Sydney, Melbourne, Gold Coast and more. Activities include day tours, zoo and animal interactions, tandem skydives, hot air balloon flights and jet boat rides.
Available on select stay dates in Adelaide, Sydney, Gold Coast, Brisbane, Melbourne and more. Sample stay is for a studio apartment in Mornington Peninsula. T&Cs apply.
Available for travel on select dates across Australia at Expedia. Destinations include Sydney, Sunshine Coast, Melbourne, Gold Coast, and more. T&Cs apply.
Available for booking from 1 January 2024 to 31 December 2027 at Motorhome Rental using the code. Pick-up locations are Sydney, Darwin, Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne, and Perth. T&Cs apply.
Available for booking from 1 January 2024 to 31 December 2027 at Motorhome Rental using the code. Pick-up locations are Sydney, Darwin, Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne, and Perth. T&Cs apply.
Available for booking from 1 January 2024 to 31 December 2025 at Motorhome Rental using the code. Pick-up locations are Sydney, Brisbane, Cairns, Hobart, Hobart Airport, Melbourne, and Perth. T&Cs apply.
Available on select travel dates until 2024, including Easter and school holidays. Activities include whale- and dolphin-watching and lunch and sunset cruises in Sydney, Cairns, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Perth and Melbourne. T&Cs apply.
Plus 10% off if you sign up for Oaks DISCOVERY loyalty program on select dates for a stay duration of 7 nights or more. Destinations include Broome, Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland, Queenstown and more.
Get up to 30% off on flights + up to 45kg baggage with Malaysia Airlines and Firefly flights. Domestic destinations include Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Darwin and Adelaide. International destination includes Malaysia, Japan, Singapore, and more. T&Cs apply.
Book a flight to the USA available for travel on select dates at Air New Zealand. Destinations include Los Angeles, New York, Hawaii, Houston, San Francisco, and Chicago. Sample fare departs from Sydney to Honolulu. Fares are subject to change without prior notice. T&Cs apply.
Available for travel on select dates and locations at TripAdvisor. Experience activities like land adventures, wine tours, water sports, and more T&Cs apply.
Available on select stay dates until December 2023 in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Darwin, Canberra and more. Sample rate is for a stay at Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort in Cairns.
Sign up for Expedia Rewards to become a member and get exclusive discounts on hotel stays. Destinations include Sydney, Cairns, Canberra, Sunshine Coast and Hobart. T&Cs apply.
Available on select dates at select KINTO locations around Australia including Melbourne, Adelaide, Cairns, Sydney, Hobart, Darwin and more. Distance fees apply.
Sign up with your email address and unlock Sneaky Saver deals. Activities include day tours, attraction passes and hop-on hop-off bus tours. Destinations include Sydney, Brisbane, the Gold Coast and Melbourne. T&Cs apply.
Available on purchases such as getaways, dining experiences, attraction passes, sightseeing cruise, cinema tickets and day tours. Destinations include Sydney, Perth, Canberra and Brisbane.
Available on select stay dates across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Hobart, Cairns, Adelaide and more. Sample fare is for a stay at The Hive Hostel. T&Cs apply.
Available on select stay dates with Express Deals. Destinations include Sydney, Adelaide, Byron Bay, Thredbo Village, Sunshine Coast, Jindabyne, Perth, the Gold Coast and more.
Available on select dates until 2024 on activities such as sightseeing tours, whale-watching cruises, helicopter tours, cruises, wine tours and more. Sample rate is for an audio walking tour.
Available on select dates in 2023 on sports activities such as racing, football and more. Sample price is for the netball division. Destinations include Adelaide, Hobart, Sydney and Perth.
Chris Jager is the lead shopping editor at Finder, specialising in consumer technology and hunting down the best deals. With over 15 years of experience as a full-time journalist, Chris has provided expertise to many leading technology publications, including PC World, Australian Gamepro, Good Gear Guide, ARN, IT News, PC Authority, CRN, GameSpy, Gizmodo, Business Insider, MSN, Kotaku, Lifehacker Australia, Sydney Morning Herald and The Age.
Before joining Finder, Chris was the editor of Lifehacker Australia for five years. He has a Bachelor of Communications in Journalism from the University of Western Sydney. Outside of Finder, you'll find him playing with retro 80s computers while juggling 3 TikTok-obsessed daughters. See full bio
Here's what you need to know about what's open during the Easter long weekend and a list of activities and events to keep you occupied over the 4-day weekend.
Here's our guide on what you can do in Sydney this Easter long weekend.
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