What’s the best thing about the 2025 Vivid Sydney program? Our answer: over 75 per cent of the multi-arts festival is free. From incredible immersive installations to vibrant inner-city parties, there’s no shortage of activities to do on a budget of zero dollars.
This year, there are enough free Vivid attractions to justify not spending any money. Plenty of iconic gems are back, including the Lighting of the Sails and Vivid Fire Kitchen. There are also lots of newcomers to the bill too, such as The Lucid Dreams Collective in Martin Place (the whole area is a new addition, actually) and Bloom on the Argyle Cut Tunnel. You can make use of the free entry into a whole range of events with Hollywood Dreaming, from cinema to dance parties, and don’t miss out on free Wednesday night gigs at Metro Social.
We’ve created the most comprehensive guide to all 66 free things to do at Vivid Sydney, across each of the five zones and then categorised into the four Vivid pillars: lights, music, ideas and food. It’s never been easier to plan your perfect free Vivid night out!
Circular Quay and the Rocks
Lights:
1. King Dingo
Masterminded by Vincent Namatjira, King Dingo is a bold and irreverent projection on the façade of the Museum of Contemporary Art. It reimagines the history of Australia with vibrant visuals, as the audience is led through Australia’s colonial history through the eyes of the dingo, an important First Nations symbol. The work is a powerful piece of cultural reclamation, made striking through vibrant projections, incredible music and a playful sense of humour.
Where: Museum of Contemporary Art, Circular Quay Sydney NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
READ MORE: Vivid Sydney: Vincent Namatjira turns the MCA into a subversive rock concert
2. 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.
Where: Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
3. Bloom
Design studio Eggpicnic created Bloom, a dreamscape illuminating the Argyle Cut Tunnel. Gaze up as animated stars, fungi, birds and bioluminescent plants from around the world swirl and dance across the tunnel roof, lighting up the surroundings with stunning riots of colour.
Where: Argyle Cut, Argyle St, The Rocks NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
4. Error
Paul Vendel and Sandra de Wolf ask whether imperfections are inevitable, or if technology can correct human errors with their creation. Error consists of a swirling illuminated disc that pulses with random flashes of light. It reflects the chaos of the universe and technology, and likens our dreams to technological glitches – unpredictable but also the key to change and new discoveries.
Where: Hickson Road Reserve, Circular Quay, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: May 23-–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
5. Colour the City
For the whole of Vivid, the ASN Clock Tower will become a canvas for Sydneysiders. Along with submissions from Vivid’s 2025 charity partner, the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation, a team will select and showcase unique artworks from entrants. They will then be projected on the Clock Tower for all of Sydney to see.
Where: ASN Clock Tower, 1/5 Hickson Rd, The Rocks NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
6. Our Connected City
The entire foreshore of Sydney Harbour will be lit up with 150 searchlights, as the mirror-like waters of Circular Quay reflect them, creating a stunning canvas of light. The Harbour Bridge will come to life with moving lights and colourful illuminations, as will the AMP Tower, Barangaroo Towers and Luna Park, among 11 other participating buildings.
Where: Circular Quay and The Rocks, Circular Quay, Sydney NSW 2000
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
7. Vivid Lights on Sydney Harbour
Sydney’s ferries and boats become floating beacons on the harbour, as various vessels join the Vivid fun. 32 participating ferries will be lighting up the harbour, taking Vivid to different wharfs around Sydney.
Where: Circular Quay and The Rocks, Circular Quay, Sydney NSW 2000
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
8. Stem
Mr. Beam Studio invites you to step up to the flower microphone and watch as the dream you whisper is transformed into a stunning light projection, resembling an animated tree. Stem is a means of seeing transformation take place in real time, an extension of the act of dreaming.
Where: Cadmans Cottage, Circular Quay West Road, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
9. House of Romance: Dreams Collide
Australian duo Romance was Born make their Vivid debut this year, showcasing fashion, colour and couture with eclectic projections on Custom House.
Where: Customs House, 31 Alfred Street, Sydney, NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
READ MORE: Vivid Sydney: ‘House of Romance’ is a true spectacle
10. Emergence
Emergence is a large-scale, audio-visual sculpture crafted from mirrored, tunnel-like trapezoid-shaped bricks, with multiple entry points. Once inside, you’ll be immersed in a mesmerising light show as you hear an original soundscape composed by the NYX Choir.
Where: First Fleet Park, The Rocks NSW 2000
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
11. Symphony of the Dreaming
The Museum of Sydney forecourt will be transformed into a light and sound experience for Symphony of the Dreaming, as visitors are invited to tap into the energy and vibrancy of the ancient First Nations stories. Created by Dharawal and Yuin artist Alison Page, this experience expresses the power of First Nations spirituality into an interplay of light, rhythm and energy.
Where: Museum of Sydney, Cnr Bridge St & Phillip St, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
12. Soleil Nuit
French creative company Le Pilote Productions has created an impressionist painting-like installation that invites visitors to marvel at the brilliance of the sun. Two back-to-back mirror-encrusted discs, one representing the Sun, the other Night, capture the duality of night and day, and of the human experience.
Where: Alfred Street, Alfred St, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
13. Sweet Dreams
Sweet Dreams by Spinifex Group are lighting up a Sydney Harbour Bridge Pylon with projections of shiny gumballs, pastel macarons, freshly-made popcorn. Catch a ferry to see this kaleidoscope of lollies come to life from the middle of the harbour.
Where: Sydney Harbour Bridge Pylons, Sydney Harbour Bridge, The Rocks NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
Music:
14. First Light: Live
After First Light comes First Light Live, a free concert in Circular Quay celebrating the power and pride of First Nations music. The lineup includes DJ RONA, guitarist-composer Jeremy Whiskey and rap duo Snotty Nose Rez Kids. This epic live show is the perfect way to kick off 23 days of Vivid festivities!
Where: Campbells Cove, 4 Circular Quay W, The Rocks NSW 2000.
When: May 23, 6:30pm–11pm.
Ideas:
15. First Light
First Light is the countdown to Lights On, the official start of Vivid. It begins with a moving celebration of First Nations culture and Calling Country and is set against the backdrop of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge at Campbells Cove. This powerful welcome ceremony will showcase the rich traditions of the Gadigal people and neighbouring nations through a display of special dance, song and language.
Where: Campbells Cove, 4 Circular Quay W, The Rocks NSW 2000.
When: May 23, 5:30pm–6pm.
Food:
16. Forecourt Food Village
Each night during Vivid, the Sydney Opera House Forecourt will transform into a foodie’s dream, championing Korean and Cuban cuisine. The temporary open-air food hub will feature just two options — so long, decision fatigue! When you’ve got the option of sizzling Seoul street food and bold Cuban flavours, what else do you need?
To top it off, Archie Rose, which is celebrating its tenth birthday, is showing up with its very own pop-up bar. Sydney’s favourite distillery will serve iconic local spirits, wines and a refreshing pre-batched Cuban Mojito. Entry is free.
Where: Sydney Opera House.
When: May 23–June 14, 5pm–10pm.
Barangaroo
Lights:
17. 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 metres tall, the LED structure resembles flames, creating that cosy campsite feeling that encourages stories and secret-sharing.
Where: Barangaroo Reserve, Walumil Lawns, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
18. 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.
Where: Stargazer Lawn, 27 Hickson Rd, Barangaroo NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
19. Fly to the Moon
Who 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. Visitors 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.
20. 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.
Where: Sea Wall Lawn, Barangaroo NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
21. Alchemy of Atmospheres
Slovenian lighting designer Janez Grošelj is transforming Nawi Garden in Barangaroo with a multi-sensory display of light, sound and fog. The piece explores the relationship between Earth and Venus, reminding us that Venus’ atmosphere (which is represented by the lightning-like installation) was once like our own, despite now being hostile and volatile.
Where: Nawi Cove, Hickson Rd, Barangaroo NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
22. Fantasmagoria
Fantasmagoria shows how books can take our minds out of this world and into another, much like dreams. Belgian Studio Dirty Monitor created this installation, celebrating the beauty, power and transportive nature of dreams, reading and storytelling through the stunning projection.
Where: Bond Building, 52 Hickson Rd, Millers Point NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
23. Dream Scene
Children’s dreams come alive in this evolving dreamscape, as the wondrous and whimsical imaginations of young patient ambassadors from Sydney Children’s Hospital Foundation (this year’s Vivid Sydney charity partner) are showcased on an interactive mural. Dream Scene is a celebration of the boundless imagination that children are capable of.
Where: Tumbalong Park, 11 Harbour St, Sydney NSW 2000
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
24. Cygnus
A captivating gaggle of 12 life-like animatronic swans glide across the water of Nawi Cove. This hypnotic display reflects on the swan’s place in human imagination, as it appears in myths and folklore.
Where: Nawi Cove, Hickson Road, Barangaroo NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
25. An Act of Being
Bangarra Dance Theatre and Reconciliation Australia have collaborated to create An Act of Being, blending contemporary dance, physical theatre and technology to explore the ongoing impact of government policies on First Nations communities. The powerful projection marks the 25th anniversary of the People’s Walk for Reconciliation across the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Where: Barangaroo Reserve, Walumil Lawns, Barangaroo NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
26. Lumina Dream
Lumina Dreams features a garden of six teardrop-shaped sculptures, which respond in real-time to meteorological data. Each sculpture transforms weather data into a changing display and colours and lights, a live representation of the environment that surround you.
Where: Barangaroo Pennywinkle Lawn, Barangaroo NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
Ideas:
27. Firetalk
Firetalk celebrates the concept of fire bringing people together, as a source of inspiration, contemplation, and communion. This tradition is deeply rooted in First Nations culture, where storytelling by fire has passed on history, language and ancestral knowledge over time.
Wiradjuri poet and artist Jazz Money has curated an experience that honours this, taking place at the incredible installation Bon(d)fire. This special series of evenings will bring together contemporary First Nations writers, poets and songwriters to share stories, reflect on the past and speak to the present.
Where: Barangaroo Reserve, Walumil Lawns, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: Every Wednesday, 6:30pm–7pm.
28. Endling
Endling is an incredible solo performance by Australia’s leading physical theatre company, Legs on the Wall. A performer is alone in a display case, representing the last human being on earth. Projections, sound, narration, confined aerial and physical theatre combine to create an unsettling but thought-provoking performance.
Where: Walumil Lawns, Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
Food:
29. Food Park at Barangaroo
Mid-light walk, you can make a pit stop at this Barangaroo food hub, featuring warm churros at Bar Coco, Asian street food at Food Trap and glowing desserts at the immersive Blacklight Dessert Lab.
Where: Stargazer Lawn, 27 Hickson Rd, Barangaroo NSW 2000
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
Darling Harbour
Lights:
30. 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.
Where: Cockle Bay, 201 Sussex Street, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
31. 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.
32. The Cloud Swing
These Cloud Swings were first exhibited at Burning Man in 2019, and now they can be found in Darling Quarter Village Green. Sit on these installations and rock back and forth. You’ll feel on top of the world as the clouds light up, triggered by the movement of the swing.
Where: Darling Quarter Village Green, 25 Harbour Street, Darling Harbour NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
33. Telephone
Telephone, by Yannesi Siu, invites visitors to tap into a slower form of communication. Old-school UK telephone booths will be located in Darling Harbour, and visitors are encouraged to step in, ring the dream line and leave a voicemail to share a dream or leave a message.
Where: Chinese Garden of Friendship forecourt, Pier Street, Cnr Harbour St, Darling Harbour NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
34. 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 you 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.
35. Entwine
Toy Studio brings to life the entwinement of past, present and future, with three large discs, symbolising the power of our imagination and our ability to form new connections. Each intertwining disc features over 168 LED tubes, pulsing with light in gentle glimmers or sudden bursts.
Where: Tumbalong Boulevard, Darling Harbour, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
36. Symphony of Light
Symphony of Light is inspired by a slinky, mimicking its movements as neon green and blue light shoots through it. Touch sensors and responsive LEDs make this structure interactive, as the light changes with movements.
Where: IMAX forecourt, Tumbalong Boulevard, Darling Harbour, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
37. The Dream Herd
Ever counted sheep to help you fall asleep? This installation is a play on this nightly ritual, featuring a glowing cloud of fluffy white sheep which you can stand under and watch as lights flicker through them, prompted by interactive touchpoints.
Where: Cockle Bay, Cockle Bay Wharf shopping centre, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
38. Elysian Collection
Sydney-based Atelier Sisu explore the interconnection between art and architecture in their work, evident in the Elysian Collection, which is part mirage, part playground. The huge inflatable installation lights up Tumbalong Park, reminiscent of the otherworldly realm Elysian Fields, the God’s paradise in Ancient Greek mythology.
Where: Tumbalong Park, 11 Harbour St, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
39. Tunku and Ngaadi
With this stunning installation, the rooftop of the Australian National Maritime Museum transforms into a story of creation, loss and love. The tale of Tunku and Ngaadi has been passed down through generations, telling of the eternal connection between the moon and the earth. This beautiful and haunting tale was illustrated by Walbunja and Ngarigo artist Cheryl Davison and voiced by the Djinama Yilaga Choir.
Where: Australian National Maritime Museum, 2 Murray Street, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
40. Drawn in Light
Drawn in Light is a kinetic installation created by Amsterdam-based artist Ralk Westerhof. Inspired by a child’s mobile, Drawn in Light features universal symbols such as a house and a car, reminiscent of early childhood imaginations. The simplicity of this piece reminds us that dreams are not always grand or complex, but there’s always something powerful about them.
Where: Reflection Ponds, Darling Harbour, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
Music:
41. Tumbalong Nights
This program offers free live music every evening for 23 nights straight, 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.
Where: Tumbalong Park, 11 Harbour St, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: Saturdays, 5pm–6pm.
Food:
42. Food Park at Tumbalong Park
This mini food hub is perfect for refuelling visitors as they stroll through the Vivid Light Walk or walk around Tumbalong Park. Featuring a curated collection of food trucks and a lively bar, there will be Korean fried chicken from Birdman, Mexican flavours at Ash’s Nachos and Japanese doughtnuts from Mochii Mochii.
Where: Tumbalong Park, 11 Harbour St, Sydney NSW 2000
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
The Goods Line and Inner City
Lights:
43. 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.
44. Starscape Tunnel
This 40-metre tunnel is illuminated by dazzling, colour-changing stars. Reminiscent of the glow-in-the-dark decorations found on the ceiling of children’s bedrooms, over 700 stars feature in this captivating installation.
Where: Hay Street, Darling Harbour NSW 2000
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
45. While You Were Dreaming
Estée Lauder, the official partner of Vivid Sydney, has created this bold installation to explore the space between dreaming and waking. A five-metre-high sculptural face hides a world alive with light and movement behind a still and sleepy face.
Where: 35 Tumbalong Bvd, Haymarket NSW 2000
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
46. 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.
47. Quasar
UxU Studio have created a giant doughnut that seems almost hypnotic as light swirls through it. A black mirror sits at the centre, and light vanishes, yet your reflection remains. This black centre represents your place in the vast universe.
Where: The Goods Line, Ultimo NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
Ideas:
48. 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. This event is free but you must book tickets.
Where: Bon Marche Studio, UTS Building d, Level 1, 755 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2148.
When: June 3–June 5, various time slots from 6pm–8:30pm.
Food:
49. Vivid Fire Kitchen
Vivid Fire Kitchen isn’t free to taste, but you can wander past and watch chefs BBQ huge slabs of meat over open flames. Enjoy the drama of the live demonstrations as the chefs create food magic in front of captivated crowds, and take in the smoky flavours that fill the air.
Where: The Goods Line, Ultimo Pedestrian Network, Ultimo NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
50. Hollywood Dreaming: Butter Beats and Eats, Left Feels
The Left Feels crew are taking over Butter in Surry Hills for an evening of fried chicken, funky lights and funky, soulful beats. There’ll be sets from Colin Ho, Tee Mall and Annika to get you dancing while you enjoy Vivid cocktails and the best of Butter. Entry is free.
Where: Butter, 6 Hunt St, Surry Hills NSW 2010.
When: May 30, 8:30pm–11pm.
51. Hollywood Dreaming: A Taste of HQ
On May 31, Surry Hills will transform into a one-night festival of street food and booze, celebrating Sydney’s favourite bars and restaurants. There will be appearances from incredible restaurants, including Kiln, Firedoor, Gildas, Nomad, Chin Chin, Brooklyn Boy Bagels, NEL and Poly, as well as popular bars The Rover, Tio’s, Butter, Alberto’s Lounge and Golden Age Bar. Entry is free.
Where: Hollywood Quarter, 2 Foster St, Surry Hills NSW 2010.
When: May 31, 5pm–10pm.
52. Hollywood Dreaming: Soda Factory
Soda Factory is putting the spotlight on local Aussie talent every Wednesday night of Vivid, showcasing different genres including soul, indie, rock and punk. Think live music, happy hours, signature cocktails and great food.
Where: The Soda Factory, 16 Wentworth Ave, Surry Hills NSW 2010.
When: Every Wednesday of Vivid, 6pm–12am
53. Hollywood Dreaming: Hollywood Hotel
Every Saturday night of Vivid, live bands and DJ collectives will be jamming and spinning at this old-school Sydney institution. The Vivid Sydney After Dark Lounge will be open from 8pm until late, and will feature specialty cocktails, as well as fried chicken from neighbours Butter (who are also hosting a Hollywood Dreaming event).
Where: Hollywood Hotel, Eddy Ave, Haymarket NSW 2000.
When: Every Saturday of Vivid, 8pm–12am.
54. Hollywood Dreaming: Neon Trail
Walk through the Hollywood Quarter and see the venues light up in neon with tributes to iconic film moments, projecting quotes, movie titles and tributes across all the venues. Vivid Sydney has described it as “Blade Runner meets Mulholland Drive meets a night out in Surry Hills.”
Where: Hollywood Quarters, Surry Hills, NSW 2010.
When: Every day of Vivid, 6pm–11pm.
READ MORE: Vivid Sydney to shut down Surry Hills with massive street parties
55. Hollywood Dreaming: Golden Age Cinema and Bar
Inspired by David Lynch, who is widely considered one of the greatest filmmakers of all time, this film-meets-music experience is a tribute to mystery, dreams and cult cinema by the master of surreal cinema. There will be live music, performance art and installations that evoke legendary Lynchian themes. Sip on a specialty cocktail as your enjoy the funky setting.
Where: Golden Age Cinema & Bar, 80 Commonwealth St, Surry Hills NSW 2010.
When: May 29, June 5 & 12, 8pm–10pm.
56. Hollywood Dreaming: Foy Lane Lights Up
On the final day of Vivid, say goodbye in style with a vibrant, one-night-only laneway party. This evening is produced by the Ace Hotel, who know how to host a buzzing event. There will be live DJs, light projections by the Arts-Matter team and a gallery of pieces by emerging artist Mia Kidis.
Where: Hollywood Quarter, Foy Lane, 57 Foy Lane, Sydney
When: June 14, 5pm–10pm
Martin Place
Light:
57. Chasing Dreams Tunnel
Continuing with the dynamic theme of “dreams”, visitors can wander through the Chasing Dreams Tunnel, a passageway of fairy lights that responds to movement.
Where: Martin Place East, Martin Place, Sydney, NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
58. Sound Walk
Sound Walk will transform the Pitt Street end of the famous city laneway Angel Place, illuminating it with light, sound and roving entertainment for one night only.
Where: City Recital Hall, 2 Angel Place, Sydney NSW 2000
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
59. 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 visitors.
Where: Martin Place, between Elizabeth Street and Macquarie Street, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
60. 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.
Where: Martin Place and CBD, Martin Place, Sydney, NSW 2000.
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
61. BioDream
BioDream is a psychedelic dreamscape that brings attention to the fleeting nature of existence. Projected onto the Commercial Traveller’s Association Building in Martin Place, Ample Projects, a Sydney-based collective of artists, were inspired by the disorientating experience of grief, the natural world and the symbolic power of water.
Where: CTA Building, MLC Centre, 19/29 Martin Pl, Sydney NSW 2000
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
62. Glyph
Glyph illuminates the path as you move from one Vivid activation to the next. Similar to hieroglyphics, glowing white LED sculptures bend into abstract, wire-like forms. Follow the signs and let Glyph lead you into the magic of Vivid.
Where: City CBD and Surrounds, Sydney NSW 2000
When: May 23–June 14, 6pm–11pm.
Music:
63. Metro AiR: Free Wednesday Night Gigs
Every Wednesday night of Vivid, Metro Social (a smaller venue within the larger Metro Theatre) will open its doors for free live music. This event is in partnership with Century Venues and Jack Daniel’s, and champions genre-bending artists, such as Divide & Dissolve, who will be performing on June 11. Although these events are free, a quick registration is required. (A quick registration is required).
Where: Metro Social, G2/624 George St, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: Every Wednesday through Vivid.
Ideas:
64. SFFTV: Sydney Film Festival in Martin Place
Sydney Film Festival will be taking over the amphitheatre of Vivid Sydney’s Martin Place zone, showing cinematic brilliance on a giant outdoor screen. Between 12pm and 1pm, 6:30pm and 7:30pm there will be a specially curated collection of short films. Throughout the day, there will also be sneak previews of Sydney Film Festival 2025 films and exclusive activations.
Where: Between Pitt and Castlereagh Streets, Martin Place, Sydney NSW 2000
When: June 4–June 14, 8am–10pm
65. State Library Unplugged
Cosy up with a good book or enjoy the puzzles and activities available at the State Library of NSW this Vivid. The iconic library will open its doors late every Friday, creating a safe space for you to explore your creative potential or for your kids to switch off from their screens.
Where: State Library of NSW, 1 Shakespeare Pl Sydney NSW 2000.
When: Every Friday, 6pm–9pm.
66. Art After Hours: Dreams
Art After Hours: Dreams is presented in partnership with the Art Gallery of NSW, taking place in conjunction with the 2025 Archibald Prize. The series will feature talks by leading chefs, art-making workshops and performances, inspired by socially engaged practice across food, ideas and music. Sessions include “Dreams from Afghanistan” performances, “Plate it Forward” demonstrations and “Dream Interpretations” talks.
Where: Art Gallery of New South Wales, Art Gallery Rd, Sydney NSW 2000
When: Every Wednesday during Vivid, 5pm–10pm
READ MORE: ‘It doesn’t get better than that’: The 2025 winners of the Archibald Wynne and Sulman Prize
FAQs
1. When is Vivid Sydney 2025 taking place?
Vivid Sydney 2025 starts on Friday, May 23 and runs up until Saturday, June 14.
2. What is the theme for Vivid Sydney 2025?
The theme for Vivid Sydney this year is simply “dream”, inviting visitors to explore your subconscious and surreal, otherworldly realms.
3. Is the Vivid Light Walk free
Although Vivid Sydney organisers copped some heat in previous years for charging an admission price for the bigger, more unique light installations, the Vivid Light Walk will be completely free for all this year. Every light installation that makes up the 8km Vivid Light Walk is free to view, to interact with, and to take photos of.
4. Are there fireworks for Vivid?
Yes! There will be fireworks on select nights throughout Vivid Sydney 2025. Book a Captain Cook Cruises trip to get front-row seats to the display that can only be seen from the water. The confirmed dates are:
Sunday, May 25
Wednesday, May 28
Thursday, May 29
Sunday, June 1
Wednesday, June 4
Thursday, June 5
Monday, June 9 (Public Holiday)
Wednesday, June 11
Thursday, June 12
For more information, visit vividsydney.com
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You're in luck if you're feeling the cost-of-living crunch but still want to see plenty of things during Vivid Sydney. Over 75% of the Vivid Sydney 2025 program is completely…
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Sydney Opera House has announced an open-air pop-up kitchen for the entire run of Vivid Sydney. Forecourt Food Village will feature Korean and Cuban food, as well as a bar…
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Sigur Ros, Beth Gibbons (Portishead) and Anohni & The Johnsons headline Vivid LIVE at Sydney Opera House this year. Over 50 big-name artists are set for cutting-edge performances at the…
