This year's Vivid Festival has injected $119 million into the NSW economy, with a record 2.58 million people attending the festival from NSW, interstate and around the world to view the largest lights festival in the Southern Hemisphere.
Vivid Sydney 2022 saw the largest opening weekend ever with 440,000 tourists coming to Sydney, while 2.1 million attendees had a sit-down or takeaway meal, providing a significant boost to local businesses.
Minister for Tourism Ben Franklin said the record-breaking attendance for Vivid Sydney 2022 was extraordinary and showed that Sydney had roared back to life after the pandemic.
"We have seen unprecedented attendance for Vivid Sydney 2022, which is wonderful to see and a clear sign Sydney is back bigger and better than ever," Mr Franklin said.
"The stats speak for themselves and reflect the significant contribution the festival makes to the city's economy with local hotels, bars, restaurants, tourism operators and small businesses all reaping the benefits.
"Almost 30 per cent of attendees came from outside Sydney, with a significant portion of visitors then travelling into regional NSW, generating $12.2 million to regional economies.
"World-class events like Vivid Sydney are all about helping to boost the NSW economy, create jobs and showcase why Sydney is the best place to live."
Vivid Sydney 2022 won 14 medals at the 2022 International Festival & Events Association Pinnacle Awards. The Pinnacle Awards recognise excellence in festival and event promotions and operations globally.
Vivid Sydney 2023 is set to offer even more for attendees with the addition of Vivid Food. Vivid Food will promote creativity, innovation and stimulate visitation to CBD restaurants and venues.
