Best of Vivid Sydney 2023 in a Platter

Vivid Sydney has long been recognized as one of the world's most spectacular light, music, and art festivals. The event brings together some of the most innovative and creative minds from around the globe, showcasing inspiring installations and immersive experiences that captivate and delight audiences of all ages. Vivid Sydney 2023 promises to be no exception, with an exciting lineup of breathtaking light shows, interactive art installations to world-class music performances and thought-provoking talks. Vantage points like the Opera House, Sydney Vivid cruises and more offer a fabulous spectator experience. Shaping up to be an event that is not to be missed, we'll explore some of the highlights of Vivid Sydney and what you can expect from this incredible festival. So, buckle up, and get ready to be transported to a world of wonder and imagination!

Vivid Light

The most attractive highlight for which tourists and Sydnersiders both flock to the foreshore is the Vivid Light. This year 11 Sydney CBD locations will light up with a kaleidoscopic display of lasers, art projections and lights. One of the best ways to view the Vivid lights is to embark onboard one of the Vivid dinner cruises. You are offered a waterfront dining experience with magnificent views of the Vivid attractions on Sydney Harbour.

Vivid Sydney opens with “First Light”, celebrating and honouring the First Nations people, culture and country. It happens at Campbells Cove in The Rocks, which features Gadigal storytelling projections on the pylons of Sydney Harbour Bridge

One of the most celebrated Australian artists, John Olsen will illuminate the Sydney Opera House sails with his vibrant paintings

The internationally acclaimed “Lightscape”, will transform the Royal Botanic Garden into an awe-striking, multi-sensory world of light, colour and sound

This year the massive 8.5km Vivid Sydney’s free Light Walk will cover Circular Quay, The Rocks, Barangaroo, Darling Harbour and more. Witness the city anew with 57 light attractions

Vivid Music

Sydney Opera House is in the spotlight when it comes to Vivid Music. This year they present live shows from over 45 artists.

Among the wildest gatherings in town, the music collective ‘Picnic’ treats everyone with their cutting-edge acts and avant-garde underground parties. The host of artists feature Peggy Gou, Young Marco, Moritz Von Oswald and more

In the acoustically enhanced Sydney Opera House Concert Hall, Chan Marshall also known as ‘Cat Power’ will recreate Bob Dylan’s legendary performance that he had rendered at Royal Albert Hall in 1966

Sway to 12 nights of free live music, with a lineup of artists like Hatchie, Egoism, Yothu Yindi, Ziggy Ramo, Sunshine, her 12-piece Disco Faith Choir and more. Tumbalong Nights at Tumbalong park is a must go eclectic contemporary live music fiesta in the very heart of the Light Walk, right at the centre of Sydney’s Darling Harbour .

Vivid Ideas

Gear up for thought-provoking debates, in-depth discussions and more. Vivid Ideas events are categorised into different series like Immersive Events series and Human Nature series.

Landscape photographer Glenn Mckimmin’s Vivid Sydney Photography Masterclass and “Pearls of Wisdom” curated by popular chef Alex Herbert are part of the Immersive Events series

“Queeries” will have about eight Australian LGBTIQ+ writers, comedians and artists come together, “Bloody Taboos”, gathers together a panel of taboo-breaking women featuring Elfy Scott, host Yumi Stynes and more. All fall under the Human Nature Series category

Vivid Food

This year, get all set to welcome the new addition to the festival–Vivid Food. Emerald City, well known as the culinary capital of Australia is home to the best of world-renowned restaurants, chefs, venues and more. Vivid Food is a celebration of food and culinary talent. Expect never seen before creativity from master chefs. Exceptional menus from famous guest chefs,multi-sensory dégustations and culinary pop-ups across the ‘Light Walk’, plus light installations and artworks across the city’s finest bars and restaurants.

Immerse yourself in three weeks of flame-fuelled fiesta. “Vivid Fire Kitchen” gathers together a selection of the city’s hottest dining concepts, entertainment and curated drinks

Welcome the return of the “Carriageworks Night Market”, a one-night event that showcases more than 50 of the city’s famous restaurants, bars and producers. Best local hospitality, food demonstrations with live entertainment and music will set the perfect ambience all night

While Vivid Sydney has always been a showcase of innovative and inspiring artistic creations, the festival has also been an important catalyst for the growth and development of a vibrant creative community. This year, from May 26 to 17 June 2023, be a part of a series of inspiring and educational events designed to uncover your creative spirit that will inspire you to unleash your creativity and make a difference in the world.