Vivid Sydney can be a magical place for kids, allowing them to explore art, music and food, all while being inspired by the bright lights around them. We’ve found the best kid-friendly activities and attractions on offer at Vivid 2025, to help your youngsters get the most out of their experience.
This year, the festival action has been split between five zones: Circular Quay and the Rocks, Barangaroo, Darling Harbour, The Goods Line and Inner City and Martin Place. The key to a relaxed, stress-free evening when visiting with kids is to explore one zone per visit—don’t try to pack it all into one day, as their little legs will get tired. We’ve found the best kids-friends events in each zone, so you can plan your ideal family visit to Vivid Sydney 2025.
Martin Place
Despite its central location, Martin Place hasn’t featured in Vivid Sydney since 2018, but this year, its back. With its new position on the Metro now allowing for speedy travel to the bustling CBD, 2025 is its time to shine (literally).
READ MORE: 7 must-see Vivid Sydney 2025 events to book now.
1. The Lucid Dream Collective
Making their Vivid Sydney debut, Moment Factory is putting on an interactive light projection titled The Lucid Dream Collective, which explores dreams and fantasies through its representation of light, textures and faces.
Kids can step into the AI photo-booth, which will transform their faces with a “dream treatment” of their choice. They can then add this to the public projection, which will evolve into a collage of different dreams and faces.
Where: Martin Place and CBD, Martin Place, Sydney, NSW 2000.
When: May 23-June 14, 6pm-11pm.
Price: Free.
2. Flowers’ Power
Nine enormous cartoon-like flowers sprout up amongst the buildings of Martin Place, in a cacophony of dreamy light and neon blooms cast across the unassuming pavement. Using mirrors and shifting light beams, reflections and shadows transform the area into a field of wonder calling to be explored by youngsters.
Where: Martin Place, between Elizabeth Street and Macquarie Street, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: May 23-June 14, 6pm-11pm.
Price: Free.
3. State Library Unplugged
This is the perfect place to encourage your child to put down the screen and embrace creativity by reading, drawing, exploring and reflecting. The State Library of NSW will open its doors late every Friday, allowing a safe space for your child to explore their creative potential (or for you to get a moment of peace and quiet!)
The Mitchell Library Reading Room is the perfect place to slow down and escape the noise of the city. For those unable to sit still, the heritage galleries will have a range of puzzles, art materials and hands-on activities, offering a much-needed break from all screens.
Where: State Library of NSW, 1 Shakespeare Pl Sydney NSW 2000.
When: Every Friday, 6pm-9pm.
Price: Free (but you need to book tickets).
4. Chasing Dreams Tunnel
Continuing with the dynamic theme of “dreams”, kids can wander through the Chasing Dreams Tunnel, a passageway of fairy lights that responds to movement.
Created by acclaimed Bundjalung artist Dr Bronwyn Bancroft, this installation draws from her personal dreams and experiences, inviting participants to step inside and fully immerse themselves in the work.
Where: Martin Place East, Martin Place, Sydney, NSW 2000.
When: May 23-June 14, 6pm-11pm.
Price: Free.
5. Haus of Horror
The perfect adventure for horror-obsessed teens, Haus of Horror is located on a historic burial ground in the heart of Town Hall. Film screenings lined up include Tim Burton’s 1990 masterpiece Edward Scissorhands, alongside a variety of live performers, DJs and funky installations.
Poltergeist will play later that evening, if you have childcare arranged.
Where: Sydney Town Hall, 483 George Street, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: Edward Scissorhands showing: June 8, 4pm-7pm. Poltergeist: June 8, 8pm-11pm.
Price: From $49.
READ MORE: Carriageworks announces free First Nations festival for Vivid Sydney
Circular Quay and the Rocks
For the most iconic Vivid experiences, Circular Quay is the place to be. Home to some of the most famous light installations, this zone is always a highlight for Vivid visitors. A tip for families: try to arrive at off-peak times to avoid crowds, as this area is the most popular place to experience the light festival.
6. Lighting of the Sails: Kiss of Light by David McDiarmid
The Lighting of the Sails is Vivid’s most recognisable and iconic event, and this year the Sydney Opera House will be lit up in tribute to the Australian artist David McDiarmid. He played a pivotal role in shaping Australian visual culture in the late-90s, and the installation will be colourful and vibrant, reflecting the legacy that McDiarmid left.
Not only will this display be visually stunning, it’s also a great way to introduce kids to new artwork, the history of Sydney and the power of words.
Where: Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: May 23-June 14, 6pm-11pm.
Price: Free.
7. King Dingo
Masterminded by Vincent Namatjira, King Dingo is an educational and playful projection that will show at the Museum of Contemporary Art. It reimagines the history of Australia with vibrant visuals and is a great way to introduce First Nations perspectives to children. Start with a visit to the MCA—there’s a fun interactive family space on level three, where they often host free activities that are themed around the exhibitions on display at the time.
Where: Museum of Contemporary Art, Circular Quay Sydney NSW 2000.
When: May 23-June 14, 6pm-11pm.
Price: Free.
8. House of Romance: Dreams Collide
Australian duo Romance was Born make their Vivid debut this year, showcasing fashion, colour and couture with projections on Custom House. Bring your fashion-savvy child to nurture their creative inspiration—or just bring them along to see the eclectic projections and exciting visuals while you’re near Circular Quay.
Where: Customs House, 31 Alfred Street, Sydney, NSW 2000.
When: May 23-June 14, 6pm-11pm.
Price: Free.
9. Luna Park After Dark
Sydney’s favourite theme park is staying open after dark, inviting visitors to ride their glowing coasters and Ferris wheel under the stars. For Stranger Things-crazy kids, they can enjoy the new immersive adventure experience based on the cult Netflix show. Take a seat on the Byers’ couch and snap a pic, and feature in your own story alongside Eleven and the gang.
Where: Luna Park Sydney, 1 Olympic Drive, Milsons Point NSW 2061.
When: Fridays and Saturdays 6pm-10pm, as well as Sunday 8 June 6pm-10pm.
Price: From $60
Barangaroo
Another location now sitting conveniently on Sydney’s Metro Line, Barangaroo offers amazing waterfront views and plenty of immersive, interactive installations.
10. Bon(d)fire
Bon(d)fire comes from the Bangkok-based 27JUNE Studio and reimagines a traditional bonfire as a striking artwork. Standing at eight-metre tall, the LED structure resembles flames, creating that cosy campsite feeling that encourages stories and secret-sharing.
Storytelling stations surround the installation, and with every tale told, the bonfire grows brighter and more dynamic. Bring your children along to feel this warming sense of community.
Where: Barangaroo Reserve, Walumil Lawns, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: May 23-June 14, 6pm-11pm.
Price: Free.
11. SomniUs
A thousand suspended rods float above visitors in this installation that looks like twinkling icicles. As you move, rippling waves of light and sound pass through the rods. The shift in sound and light creates an exciting and immersive exhibition, perfect for young eyes as they contribute to the installation’s movements.
Where: Stargazer Lawn, 27 Hickson Rd, Barangaroo NSW 2000.
When: May 23-June 14, 6pm-11pm.
Price: Free.
12. Fly to the Moon
What child wouldn’t want to gently swing in a giant inflatable moon? Chinese artist and curator Yannesi Siu designed this installation with the moon as her muse, paying homage to its light and luminosity. Kids can become the “man in the moon” as they swing in this playful installation that sits on the waterfront of Barangaroo.
Where: Barangaroo Reserve, Walumil Lawns, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: Throughout Vivid, 6pm-11pm.
Price: Free.
13. Trispheric Garden
The Trispheric Garden acts as an audio-visual playground, inviting visitors to wander through the park and take in the changing light patterns and fluctuating sounds. As you walk past the mystical pillars, your perspective is thrown into flux as light is reflected and refracted.
Bring your children along to this symphony of light and sound, and explore the dream-like distortion of the senses.
Where: Sea Wall Lawn, Barangaroo NSW 2000.
When: May 23-June 14, 6pm-11pm.
Price: Free.
14. Dream Factory
Have a young thespian in your midst? They’ll love this hands-on workshop presented in partnership with Sydney Theatre Company. Backstage experts will lead activities, including demonstrations from prop designers and scenic artists, and youngsters will be given access to the behind-the-scenes magic of the theatrical world.
Where: Sydney Theatre Company, 15 Hickson Road, Dawes Point, NSW 2000.
When: Thursday May 29 and June 5 & 12, 5pm-6:30pm and 7pm-8:30pm.
Price: From $65.
Darling Harbour
Darling Harbour will be illuminated with fun, performances and attractions this year, playing host to the popular Tumbalong Nights and a host of other exciting installations. Make an evening of Vivid and dine at one of the delicious restaurants in Chinatown before you head over to the bustling Darling Harbour.
15. Tumbalong Nights
This program offers free live music every evening, with a line-up of global stars and local talent that’ll be bound to get you dancing. For families with younger children, there are designated kids’ shows on from 5pm-6pm every Saturday, perfect for getting your children to expend some energy while they dance along to family-friendly acts.
The family-friendly line-up includes PASIFIX, who celebrate Australia’s Pacific Island community with special cultural community performances. Whistle & Trick will bring a high-energy, interactive show, and the Vegetable Plot will serve up funky-fresh tunes.
Where: Tumbalong Park, 11 Harbour St, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: Saturdays, 5pm-6pm.
Price: Free.
READ MORE: 5 Vivid Sydney dance parties you don’t want to miss.
16. Space to Dream
Cockle Bay Wharf will host three iridescent floating waterfalls, courtesy of Samsung Electronics Australia, who are transforming water and light into art at this year’s festival. Inspired by Galaxy AI, this installation invites you to consider the power of technology in creating illuminating art.
This installation is particularly exciting for children, as they’re encouraged to step into the ‘Dream Generator’, where they can have the surreal experience of walking on water and seeing their face in the artwork.
Where: Cockle Bay, 201 Sussex Street, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: May 23-June 14, 6pm-11pm.
Price: Free.
17. Curiosity
Sydney-based studio Amigo & Amigo are exploring that peculiar sense of curiosity that rocks you after an intense dream. They’ve placed a series of six seesaws in Tumbalong Park that are complete with lit-up eyes, inspired by the surrealist style of Joan Miró. As your children play on the seesaws, a unique collection of sounds will play, and lights will cascade across the illuminated park.
Where: Tumbalong Park, 11 Harbour St, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: May 23-June 14, 6pm-11pm.
Price: Free.
18. Kickit Team Tennis
For sporty families, Kickit Tennis is a must. Instead of your usual fluffy yellow tennis ball, you’ll play with a streak of light that will be hit back and forth across the field. Step on the interactive footpad to send the pulse of light across to your opposition, and work to score the winning point with your team.
Where: Darling Quarter Village Green, 25 Harbour Street, Darling Harbour NSW 2000.
When: May 23-June 14, 6pm-11pm.
Price: Free.
READ MORE: Take a kayak tour of Vivid Sydney at the Maritime Museum this year.
The Goods Line and Inner City
The Goods Line focuses on fire and technology—a change from the waterfalls of waterfront Darling Harbour. In this zone, you’ll find Vivid Fire Kitchen, a favourite of Vivid visitors every year.
19. Vivid Fire Kitchen
Watch chefs cook over open flames and introduce your kids to exciting new flavours and cuisines, with BBQ styles such as tandoor and teppanyaki. Enjoy the drama of the live demonstrations as the chefs create food magic in front of captivated crowds.
Where: The Goods Line, Ultimo Pedestrian Network, Ultimo NSW 2000.
When: May 23-June 14, 6pm-11pm.
Price: Free to watch.
READ MORE: Tongs at the ready for Vivid Sydney’s smokey 23-day Fire Kitchen
20. Eye of the Beholder
The Eye of the Beholder installation will be projected on the Frank Gehry building, where large human eyes blink and follow your movements. Stroll down the Goods Line and gaze at the building’s iconic windows as the playful animation illuminates them.
Where: Dr Chau Chak Wing Building (Frank Gehry), UTS Building CB08, Platform 14/28 Ultimo Road, Ultimo NSW 2007.
When: May 23-June 14, 6pm-11pm.
Price: Free.
21. I Dream of Reality
This is the perfect way to get video game-obsessed teens out to experience Vivid Sydney, as it immerses you in alternative realities crafted by researchers and artists at the University of Technology Sydney.
I Dream of Reality is a mind-bending exhibition which confronts urgent questions about climate, technology and human nature, as visitors interact with 3D humans and explore Australian landscapes. The exciting yet confronting world of virtual reality presents you with the opportunity to see life through different eyes.
Where: Bon Marche Studio, UTS Building d, Level 1, 755 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2148.
When: June 3–June 5, various timeslots from 6pm-8:30pm.
Price: Free (but you must book tickets).
22. Fireplaces
Fireplaces will pop up in a few different locations, including Ultimo, Barangaroo and Tumbalong Park. You’ll spot the giant fire pits, captivating fire sculptures and daring flame throwers and fire barrels from a mile off. Children will be mesmerised as the incredible flame-fuelled artistry is performed right before their eyes.
Where: The Goods Line and Inner City, Barangaroo and Vivid Fire Kitchen.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm-11pm.
Price: Free.
Vivid Sydney 2025
When is Vivid Sydney?
The annual festival returns to Sydney from Friday, May 23 until Saturday, June 14, 2025. Events take place every day, from morning until late, suiting all budgets, ages and interests.
Where will Vivid take place?
It is a citywide festival with events taking place at locations across Sydney, from the iconic Circular Quay and The Rocks to Barangaroo. There are five unique zones this year: Circular Quay and The Rocks, Barangaroo, Darling harbour, The Goods Line and Inner City, and Martin Place and CBD.
Is it free? How much are tickets?
More than 75 per cent of the program is free this year, including the Vivid Sydney Light Walk. There are a number of ticketed events, too, and many are selling out fast. You need to register at vividsydney.com in order to purchase a ticket.
How do I get to Vivid Sydney 2025?
There will be extra trains and buses operating during weekends to help visitors travel between locations. Extensive road closures and parking restrictions mean that public transport is the best way to travel around the city while the festival is on. You can used the Transport for NSW trip planner to plan your journeys, track real-time services and keep up-to-date with the latest travel news.
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