Let There Be Light: Vivid Sydney 2025 Kicks Off in Spectacular Fashion

Sydney has officially switched on the lights—and the excitement is electric. Vivid Sydney 2025, the country’s largest festival of light, ideas, music, and food, has transformed the city into a living canvas for its 15th anniversary. From 23 May to 14 June, festivalgoers can experience over 200 events across five unique zones of the Harbour City.

This year’s theme, Dream, invites us to imagine without limits, play without boundaries, and immerse ourselves in a sensory wonderland.

Why Vivid Sydney 2025 Is a Must-See

Under the stars and amidst the glow of creative genius, this year’s festival celebrates artistry, culture, and connection like never before.

 Over 75% of the program is free, including the entire Vivid Light Walk, so you don’t need a ticket to witness Sydney’s dazzling transformation.

 Iconic landmarks come alive with world-class installations, including:

• The late David McDiarmid’s Kiss of Light illuminating the Sydney Opera House sails.
• Vincent Namatjira’s King Dingo lighting up the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia.
• Romance Was Born’s vibrant House of Romance taking over Customs House.
• Plus, new locations joining the spectacle, such as Admiralty House and The Bond at Barangaroo.

 Global icons and local legends headline the Vivid Music program. From Beth Gibbons (Portishead) and Sigur Rós with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, to dance parties at Oxford Art Factory and free gigs at Tumbalong Nights, the city will be pulsing with sound.

Vivid Food

• Nigella Lawson curating three exclusive dinners.
• Neon Dreams roller rink and plant-based diner pop-up.
• 
• Fire Kitchen at The Goods Line
• Street parties lighting up Surry Hills’ Hollywood Quarter.

 Vivid Ideas challenges and inspires, with speakers like Martha Stewart, Nick Offerman & Megan Mullally, D.W. Pine, and Jimmy Chin.

A Message from the Minds Behind the Magic

 “Vivid Sydney is our city’s living legacy,” said NSW Premier Chris Minns, celebrating the creativity and community spirit at the heart of the festival.

 Festival Director Gill Minervini, in her final year, invites everyone to “dream without limits, without borders—this festival is about the dreams we share and the joy we create together.”

First Light and Beyond

The festival kicked off with the First Light ceremony at Overseas Passenger Terminal, Circular Quay, where NAISDA dancers honoured Yolngu culture, followed by dazzling pyrotechnics and a free concert celebrating First Nations music.

Plan Your Visit

Vivid Sydney 2025 runs until Saturday, 14 June.
Full program and tickets: www.vividsydney.com

Don’t Miss Out

Whether you’re chasing glowing installations, captivating talks, delicious food, or unforgettable live music, Vivid Sydney 2025 has something for everyone. Grab your crew, lace up your comfiest shoes, and get ready to experience the magic of the Harbour City bathed in creativity and colour.

 Share your Vivid Sydney moments with #VividSydney2025 and show the world how you dream in light!