What makes winter exciting in Sydney? Two words: Vivid Sydney. As one of the city’s biggest attractions, this fantastic celebration of Lights, Music, Ideas and Food draws millions of visitors from around the world.
From May 23 to June 14, this year’s Vivid Sydney Festival promises an unmissable lineup of incredible installations and star-studded performances. With so much to see and do, you’ll have plenty to choose from.
If you wish to enjoy Vivid Sydney to the fullest, we have some expert tips for you! Check them out:
Timing is everything! One of the biggest mistakes many visitors make is arriving at peak hours when the streets are already packed. Locals know that the best way to experience Vivid Sydney is to get there early, just as the lights switch on around 6 PM, or go later in the evening when the crowds thin out. The installations stay lit until 11 PM, so you’ve got plenty of time to explore.
Another pro tip is to visit on weekdays when it is comparatively less busy. If you can, pick a cloudy or slightly rainy evening. This deters some crowd, and the wet ground enhances the light reflections.
A well-structured itinerary is key to making the most of Vivid Sydney! Start by listing the events, concerts, talks and art installations you don’t want to miss and then map out your schedule accordingly. If you wish to attend ticketed events, be sure to book in advance. It’s also a good idea to sort out your transport and food stops ahead of the Vivid Sydney dates to avoid any last-minute hassle.
Our Vivid Sydney cruises are a total must-do! Seeing the Vivid Sydney lights from the stunning waters of Sydney Harbour is a one-of-a-kind experience you don’t want to miss out! The cruises promise breathtaking views and a unique perspective of the extravaganza. We have two options: an early and late departure cruise. Choose the option that works for you, and enjoy the most memorable spectator cruising experience of your life! Please note that our tickets sell out in no time, so book fast.
As a visitor to Sydney, you’re probably not planning to drive, and honestly, that’s for the best. The city becomes a maze of road closures, detours and expensive parking during Vivid Sydney. Navigating all that chaos is more stress than it’s worth. Even locals tend to leave their cars behind during the festival!
We highly recommend using public transport. Trains and buses are frequent and drop you right into the heart of all the action. Use the official Vivid Sydney map to navigate between zones with ease. Also, check transport schedules beforehand and note the last train or bus times to avoid being stranded.
Avoid packing too many things for your Vivid Sydney adventure. A small backpack with just the essentials will make your experience much smoother. With all the photos and videos you’ll be taking (trust us, you'll be clicking away like there's no tomorrow), your phone battery will drain quickly, so take a portable charger with you.
Carrying a water bottle is a sustainable way to stay hydrated throughout the experience. Avoid buying overpriced water bottles. If you have kids, pack some of their favourite snacks. Bring a raincoat or umbrella, just in case the weather turns.
No, we do not have snow, but Sydney definitely gets chilly at night during winter. So, layer up with warm clothes. Since you’ll be on your feet for hours, avoid wearing heels and go for comfortable shoes. A windproof jacket, gloves and a beanie might also be helpful on particularly cold nights.
By following these easy tips, you’ll experience the Vivid Sydney festival like a local, without any stress. So, are you ready to make the most of Sydney’s most-awaited winter festival?
