This Friday evening Vivid Sydney 2023 light's-up with more than 300 events across its pillars of Light, Music, Ideas and Food. The largest festival in Australia, and a favourite for artists, visitors and locals, Vivid Sydney plays a key role in supporting the NSW visitor economy and promoting the creative industries, both nationally and internationally.
In 2023, the festival's creative direction is "Vivid Sydney, Naturally", focussing on our relationship with the natural environment. In 2023, Vivid Sydney features a new pillar, a dedicated Vivid Food program, which will sit alongside Light, Music and Ideas.
From 26 May to 17 June, the renowned Vivid Sydney Light Walk will stretch continuously for 8.5km linking the Sydney Opera House to Central Station with 57 free light art installations and 3D projections featuring 32 NSW based artists and collaborators. Vivid Music boasts a cutting-edge contemporary music program featuring 67 gigs and concerts at 14 venues across the CBD with performances from local and international acts.
Those interested in thought provoking talks, debate and workshops should register for Vivid Ideas which offers 38 events with 218 speakers including the popular Mike White and Jennifer Coolidge in Conversation at ICC Sydney and in Conversation with Jeannette Winterson at Sydney Town Hall. The new Vivid Food celebrates and profiles NSW produce, culinary talent and venues through collaborations with NSW chefs, producers and national and international talent. Vivid Food has 282 events this year at 18 venues.
For more information about the Vivid Sydney program and to purchase tickets.
A lot of planning has taken place behind the scenes, and the NSW Police Force will be present to ensure a safe environment to make sure everyone stays safe, and the NSW Police Force will provide a highly visible presence across the event footprint. With large crowds expected, especially on weekends, plan your visit ahead of time and be mindful of your own safety and that of those around you.
Get more information on planning your trip, service changes, additional public transport services and road closures during Vivid Sydney.
Road closures will be in place in the Sydney CBD from 5pm each night during Vivid Sydney from 26 May to 17 June, with more significant closures on weekends. Attendees and the non-event community is encouraged to plan ahead and allow extra time.
Get more information on road closures, special event clearways and real-time traffic conditions during Vivid Sydney.
The event, now in its 13th edition, is owned, managed and produced by Destination NSW, the NSW Government's tourism and major events agency.
Minister for Jobs and Tourism John Graham said:
"Come Friday, the bright lights of Vivid Sydney will once again transform our city, mesmerise, delight and inspire, and I encourage both visitors and Sydneysiders alike to take part in this year's festival."
"Since its inception in 2009 under former Labor Premier Nathan Rees, Vivid has showcased the vibrancy, buzzing nightlife and diverse creative talents of Sydney on the global stage and supercharged our visitor economy around experience tourism."
"I am pleased that Vivid is evolving as Sydney does - this year includes a fourth pillar, Vivid Food, and I look forward to sampling some of NSW's best produce, created by some of our finest culinary talent.
Vivid Sydney Festival Director Gill Minervini said
"Vivid Sydney has come of age and has evolved into a progressive and inclusive event that celebrates the best of our creative industries in 2023."
"We are truly proud of this year's festival. We have raised the bar on the size and scale of the events and activated new parts of the city. Our line-up features more diverse talent across more industries.
Transport for NSW Acting Chief Operations Officer Mark Hutchings said
"We are urging visitors to leave the car at home and catch extra public transport services to and from the event.
"Public transport is the best option to travel to and from Vivid Sydney and gives you the freedom to start, and end, your experience at different points along the light walk over a few nights," Mr Hutchings said.
"There will be plenty of extra bus, train and light rail services running each evening. Ferries will operate to an enhanced timetable, and we know they are always an incredibly popular way to take in the lights. Please be patient, expect long queues at ferry wharfs, and allow extra travel time, especially on weekends.
"The city is no place for cars during Vivid. Roads around The Rocks and Circular Quay will close each night from 5pm with more extensive closures in the Sydney CBD and around Darling Harbour on Friday nights and weekends."
