If you haven’t heard of this annual festival, let us give you the lowdown. It showcases light projections, music performances and inspiring idea exchanges over 23 days, which this year will be from the 26th of May to the 17th of June. You'll find these at locations across the harbour city, from iconic landmarks to Instagrammable gardens. But as there's just so much going on, we thought we'd help you by highlighting some of the best events for Vivid Sydney 2023.
Light
Throughout the Vivid festival in Sydney, you can expect large-scale light shows, as well as immersive installations, meaningful artworks and reality-bending experiences.
Unmissable, in two senses of the word, Vivid Sydney Opera House is going to be seriously cool this year.
Lighting of the Sails
What: Would Vivid Sydney ever be complete without this eye-catching piece? Every year, an internationally renowned artist creates something magical to be beamed onto the Sydney Opera House. And this time around, Curiious will bring to life John Olsen's vibrant paintings, which depict life, energy and the natural world.
Where: On the Sydney Opera House, which will be viewable from the harbour. Fancy a burger and a beer for afters? Then check out Surly's in Surry Hills.
When: You can see this light show at Vivid Sydney every day from 6pm to 11pm.
Waterlight Graffiti
What: From Antonin Fourneau comes Waterlight Graffiti in Barangaroo, where you can unleash your inner artist on the electronic blackboard. Armed with a brush, spray or stamp, create your masterpiece using water, which will then transform into light.
Where: The Cutaway, 1 Merriman Street, Barangaroo, NSW2000. Found nearby, The Orient Hotel is a slick rooftop spot for tasty grub and drinks afterwards.
When: Throughout the festival.
Dark Spectrum
What: Created in partnership with Sony Music, Culture Creative and Mandylights, Dark Spectrum is not to be missed. Found beneath the city, the immersive, multi-sensory experience takes you through a labyrinth of abandoned railway tunnels, where each room is associated with a different mood.
Where: Wynyard Station, 1001 York Street, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: Every day from 12pm to 9:15pm.
Music
Thanks to Vivid Sydney festival 2023, gigs are set to take place at incredible venues across the city. You can find everything from dance and punk to classical and folk, all from a range of huge names in the biz, as well as up-and-coming local talent. Please note that while some events are free, others require tickets.
If you're wondering what to see at Vivid Sydney this weekend, don't miss Thundercat.
Thundercat
What: An incredibly popular artist from LA, Thundercat is renowned for his blend of funk, jazz and RnB, which makes for a unique and ear-pleasing sound.
Where: Sydney Opera House.
When: You can find this music show at Vivid Sydney on the 4th of June from 4:30pm to 6:30pm. And if that's worked up an appetite, The Glenmore Hotel is just a short walk away.
Sleaford Mods
What: Hailing from Nottingham in the UK, Sleaford Mods bring a ferocious energy, blasting out punk riffs combined with electro beats.
Where: Sydney Opera House. Make sure you're fuelled up by popping to The Australia Heritage Hotel pre-show for elevated pub grub and tasty tipples.
When: 10th of June, 7.30pm to 11.30pm.
Vivid Sydney Supper Club
What: Wondering what to do in Vivid Sydney? On Friday and Saturday nights during the festival, Mary's Underground will transform into a cool cabaret club. Expect smooth jazz, burlesque beauties and big names in comedy gracing the stage for a suave, intimate evening.
Where: Mary's Underground.
When: Every weekend during Vivid Sydney, from 9pm to 1am.
Ideas
A huge part of Vivid Sydney is evoking change and sparking new ideas. And with that? They've curated a fantastic range of talks, workshops and Q&As.
Take a beautiful picture then tuck into scrumptious pasta plates at The North Spoon.
Vivid Sydney Photograph Masterclass
What: Get behind the lens at the Vivid Sydney Photograph Masterclass. Led by landscape photographer and Fuji X ambassador Glenn Mckimmin, this unique experience offers an invaluable chance to learn techniques from an experienced professional. You'll work from the southeast pylon of Sydney Harbour Bridge, where the public is usually prohibited to enter, to snap a stunning shot.
Where: Southeast Pylon, Sydney Harbour Bridge, The Rocks NSW 2000. Swing by The North Spoon afterwards for delicious pastas or burgers afterwards.
When: On the 29th of May, as well as the 5th and 12th of June, from 5:30pm to 7:30pm.
Feeling It: Music And Sound On Screen
What: At Feeling It: Music And Sound On Screen, Cameron Patrick, Head of Screen Composition, will perform a live scoring session for breathtaking footage from an AFTRS short film. You'll discover how different musical approaches can dramatically change the meaning of a scene.
Where: Level 2, 400 George Street, Sydney, NSW 2000.
When: Takes place on the 11th of June from 11am to 12:15pm.
Australian Museum X Vivid Ideas
What: Here, multi-disciplinary artists Jacob Boehme, ABC RN show host Rudi Bremer, Barkindji knowledge holder and healer David Boule and Barkindji artist Zena Cumpston will come together to discuss the future of the Marry Darling Basin. After the talk, explore the Museum's Barka: The Forgotten River exhibition to learn more.
Where: Australian Museum.
When: On the 14th of June between 5pm and 9pm. If you're in need of refreshments, 24/7 Sports Bar can be found a 10-minute walk away, serving up burgers, wings and the like.
Looking for more cool things to do in Sydney? Check out our guide here and sign up to our future newsletter.
