Amid the gloomy weather, Vivid Sydney 2025 is set to ignite the Harbour City from tonight until 14 June, marking its 15th year as a beacon of creativity and innovation.
The festivities kick off at 5:30pm at Campbells Cove in The Rocks with ‘First Light’, followed by the official ‘Lights On’ at 6pm and a free open-air concert, ‘First Light Live’, celebrating First Nations music.
This year, visitors can expect some exciting Vivid Sydney-firsts as the city transforms into a canvas of light, music, ideas and food, all united by the inspiring theme ‘Vivid Sydney, Dream’.
A major new addition is the expanded Vivid Light Walk, now connecting five distinct zones: Circular Quay and The Rocks, Barangaroo, the CBD and Martin Place (returning after a 7-year absence), Darling Harbour and The Goods Line, and Inner City.
Each zone promises unique experiences across all four festival pillars, making it arguably easier than ever to explore the magic.
And as usual, the whole Light Walk remains entirely free, ensuring everyone can soak up the spectacle. In fact, over 75% of the total program is free to attend, reinforcing Vivid Sydney’s commitment to accessibility.
“Vivid Sydney is our city’s living legacy and come 6pm tonight, the world’s focus will once again be on our beautiful Harbour City as it’s transformed into a canvas of innovative light installations, immersive experiences and cutting-edge artistry,” NSW Premier Chris Minns said.
“The tireless efforts from the many talented artists, technicians, event organisers and behind-the-scenes support crew to bring this year’s Vivid Sydney to life has been extraordinary.
“I congratulate all of those who have contributed to shaping this year’s event into what will be an unmissable Sydney experience.”
Beyond the lights
Vivid Ideas is also back with over 30 thought-provoking events, featuring big names like Martha Stewart and comedy duo Nick Offerman and Megan Mullally.
In addition, music lovers are in for a treat with over 100 live performances, including a free nightly program at Tumbalong Park in Darling Harbour, showcasing everything from Aussie pop to First Nations talent.
Elsewhere, Vivid Food continues to grow, with global names like Nigella Lawson leading events and the popular Vivid Fire Kitchen returning to The Goods Line for free cooking demonstrations.
“As we mark 15 years, this world-class event continues to showcase the very best destinations and creative talent our city has to offer,” NSW Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said.
“Vivid Sydney continues to grow in scale and impact, drawing in millions of visitors and reinforcing Sydney’s position as the premier destination in the Asia Pacific.
“With over 75 per cent of the program free to attend and the entire Vivid Light Walk open to everyone, it is one of the most accessible events in the country, and this year’s program has something for everyone.
“It’s a festival that unites communities, supports local businesses and boosts our visitor and night-time economies.”
Meanwhile, Minister of Music and the Night-time Economy John Graham hailed Vivid’s boost to the local economy, despite it largely being a free event.
“Vivid is a massive boost to Sydney’s night-time economy, with many of the 2.5 million visitors pouring into our restaurants, bars and live venues,” he remarked.
“As well as supporting the festival itself, the government has also been cutting red tape so our entertainment and hospitality operators can make the most of the big boost in visitors.
More lights, longer nights
To ensure festivalgoers can fully immerse themselves in the event, the NSW Government has extended trading hours until midnight on Sunday nights during the festival for eligible venues in key precincts.
Last year, Vivid Sydney attracted over 2.5 million attendees and generated an impressive $180 million in visitor expenditure, its second-biggest-ever windfall.
For more information, visit www.vividsydney.com.
