The Ultimate Vantage Points for Vivid Sydney

Vivid Sydney transforms the city into a magical night-time wonderland, showcasing a spectacular cityscape that celebrates Sydney’s cultural nightlife. At this annual festival of creativity, innovation and technology, you will see mesmerising art displays, live musical performances, 3D light projections, thought-provoking talks and workshops conducted by some of the world’s greatest minds. The city of Sydney will be divided into several light precincts and Vivid venues where you can find and explore the artworks. You can also indulge in a number of night time experiences that will be on offer in the city during the festival. From the luxury Sydney Vivid cruises to an adventurous Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb, here are some options for you to explore. 

Go on a Vivid Light Walk

One of the best ways to get easily acquainted with the artworks and artists at Vivid Sydney is through a Light Walk. This year’s edition will feature over 50 installations and projections by more than 100 artists and collaborators. A light walk will show you the city in a whole new light, when the pleasure-seekers take over the night. Over the 12 years of this glorious festival, Vivid has grown to transform a total of eight city precincts including Circular Quay, The Rocks, The Royal Botanic Gardens, Barangaroo, Darling Harbour, Luna Park, Taronga Zoo and Chatswood. The epicentre of the festival surrounds three of these precincts namely Circular Quay, The Rocks and the Botanic Gardens. You may take a walk around this marvellous epicentre to start off your Vivid exploration; we can expect the 2021 walking trail to be similar to that of 2019. However, it might change depending on each year’s installations and exhibits. Download the Vivid Light Walk Map PDF for a clearer picture. 

Vivid Sydney at the Botanic Gardens

Circular Quay is usually one of the most crowded places to visit during Vivid Sydney. If you wish to keep yourself away from the crowds, you can head over to far more open spaces in the area such as the Botanic Gardens. This year, however, there will be strict crowd-control regulations in place due to the pandemic. 

Barangaroo

At Barangaroo, the contemporary architecture meets the vibrant cultural experiences in a stunning waterside location. If you’re looking for a place to dine out during the festival, Barangaroo is the best place to be. Explore the impressive array of artworks along Wulugul Walk—a spectacular foreshore promenade connecting Barangaroo with the picturesque 11km harbourside walk from Woolloomooloo to Anzac Bridge. Two major artworks that will be exhibited at Barangaroo this year are ChronoHarp and Corpi Celesti. A bonus suggestion for you: hop on board a Vivid cruise in 2021 to see all these in a different perspective. 

City and Surrounds

Vivid Sydney fills all of the city’s cultural venues with vibrant tunes and logic. Most venues are in close vicinity, making it easier for the public to explore the precincts. Make a memorable night of it by wandering through Sydney’s shopping heart, a cocktail or bubbles from any of the bars inside the Queen Victoria Building. Head down to Sydney’s City Recital Hall to hear the angelic tones of prominent artists. You can also visit the Vivid Ideas Exchange at Ultimo(located near the Central Station), hosted by the University of Technology. 

Luna Park

If you’re at Vivid Sydney, then Luna Park is a must-visit. The ultimate home of fun in the city will be illuminated by mesmerising colours and lights that will definitely put a smile on your face. The amusement park has a number of futuristic rides including Boomerang, Little Nipper, the SledgeHammer and many more. The famous Ferris Wheel will synchronise about 6500 LED lights with Vivid Sydney’s city display, making it a must-see attraction.