Local's guide: Vivid 2024

 

Vivid Sydney is returning for its fourteenth year to illuminate the Harbour City winter with an electrifying fusion of light, music, ideas and food.

From 24 May to 15 June 2024, join pioneering artists, musicians, thinkers and culinary experts as they converge under this year’s theme of "Vivid Sydney, Humanity", exploring what it means to be human.

Whether you’re a seasoned Vivid enthusiast or embarking on your first Vivid adventure, we’ve curated an essential guide to help you navigate this year’s’ most captivating light installations, enchanting music sets, enlightening speakers and delectable food stops. 

Must see light installations for VIVID 2024 

This year, the city will be adorned with over 30 incredible light installations waiting to be discovered. The majority of these installations will be nestled in vibrant locations such as Darling Harbour, Barangaroo, Circular Quay, and The Rocks. 

Hika Rakuyo

At Cockle Bay, Darling Harbour, don’t miss Hika Rakuyo - a fascinating eight-minute holographic light display celebrating the beauty of life through blooming flowers and falling leaves. Catch the show on repeat from 6pm until approximately 10:45pm.  

Nest

At Stargazer Lawn in Barangaroo, experience Nest, where the graceful dance of the Brolgas unfolds within an expansive circular structure, offering a captivating encounter with larger-than-life crane apparitions projected onto transparent surfaces. 

Love is in the Air

Meanwhile, at Circular Quay and The Rocks, be sure to gaze skyward for Love is in the Air, a romantic and colourful show of over 700 drones forming universal symbols of love in an array of spectacular formations. This free show is scheduled to be on 8, 9 and 15 June with exact times to be confirmed closer to the festival.  

Lighting of the Sails: Echo

Looking towards the Sydney Opera House, don't miss Lighting of the Sails: Echo where Julia Gutman's art brings the myth of Narcissus to life with fabric and technology, prompting viewers to reflect on identity and self-discovery in a captivating blend of old and new.

Looking for a new way to experience Vivid Sydney?

Embark on an extraordinary one-hour voyage with Fantasea Cruising and see Vivid in a whole new light. The friendly crew who live and breathe the Sydney Harbour every day, will take you on an unforgettable journey exploring the beautiful foreshore installations from Darling Harbour to Circular Quay. Save 10% when you book online with Fantasea Sydney Harbour cruises for Vivid. Don't miss out – secure your spot now! 

Top music spots at Vivid Sydney 2024

Tumbalong Nights

Head to Darling Harbour’s Tumbalong Park for Tumbalong Nights, featuring 12 nights of free music with local and international talent. On 25 May don't miss Jalbu Muna, a special night celebrating First Nations storytelling through music, curated by Deline Briscoe. Experience performances by Christine Anu, Kee’ahn, and Akala Newman, taking you on a journey from Gadigal land to Jirrbal Country. Plus, enjoy free kids’ music and dance workshops by Buuja Buuja Dance before the main event.

On top of all that, there will be an array of musical performances every night ranging from dreamy pop tunes to energetic street party vibes, ensuring there's something to keep everyone dancing well into the night. Here’s a quick summary of the daily schedules:

• Sunday to Wednesday nights: DJs keep the vibes going 
• Thursday to Saturday (and Sunday 9 June): Live music starts at 7:30pm 
• Saturdays: Kid shows from 5pm 

Carriageworks

At Carriageworks, you can catch Yasiin Bey, formerly known as Mos Def, as he performs a two-night tribute, featuring a tribute to MF DOOM on night one and celebrating the 15th anniversary of his album The Ecstatic on night two, promising an unforgettable exploration of his influential career. Finally, immerse yourself in the captivating sounds of Electric Fields, fresh from their Eurovision appearance, for a truly electrifying performance. 

There will be a mix of over 70 free and ticketed shows and musical performances on offer so be sure to check out the full line up for more details. 

Best places to eat at Vivid Sydney 2024

VividPlace Food Trail

For a culinary journey, head to the VividPlace Food Trail, nestled in Sydney Place and Bulletin Place laneways near Circular Quay, where you’ll find over 20 cafes, restaurants, and bars offering diverse dishes such as Mi Goreng toasties, gelato, and rare Japanese whisky. No reservations or tickets are required to explore the VividPlace Food Trail.  

Vivid Sydney Fire Kitchen

Hungry for some flamed-seared street food? A smorgasbord of choices awaits at Vivid Sydney Fire Kitchen on The Goods Line in Ultimo, with food trucks, markets and barbeque stands serving up Filipino, Spanish, Lebanese, Greek, Mexican dishes and more alongside indulgent treats from Messina Milk Bar, featuring their Vivid-exclusive warm Milo fudge sundae. 

If you're still craving more dining options and happen to be an My NRMA member, unlock exclusive discounts using your My NRMA app to discover nearby dining options in Sydney. Enjoy a generous 20% off your total bill at popular spots like Pancakes on the Rocks (Locations in Haymarket and The Rocks) and P'Nut Asian Kitchen. Plus, keep the little ones happy with a treat from Gelatissimo (locations in Darling Harbour and Circular Quay) and Baskin-Robbins, where members can indulge with an extra scoop of ice cream with every purchase. With these discounts, you can savour the flavours of Vivid Sydney while saving a little extra along the way. 

Top talks at Vivid Sydney 2024

Vivid Sydney is more than just lights and music, it's also a time to reflect on big ideas. Over the 23 days and nights, there will be a mix of free and ticketed talks, hands-on workshops and forums.  

For an intellectually stimulating experience, check out After The Fact at Barangaroo House. Engage with brilliant minds dissecting breaking news stories, offering insights, and sparking lively debates every weeknight. At The Harwood Building Courtyard, Haymarket, why not immerse yourself in a vision of a more sustainable future at A New Normal and explore innovative projects showcasing circularity, zero waste, and renewable energy, offering a glimpse into the possibilities for a greener Sydney.  

Looking for something a bit more light-hearted? Delve into the existential debate surrounding Artificial Intelligence at AI Will Destroy Humanity: A Future Science Debate in the grand setting of NSW Parliament House. Expect laughter, enlightenment, and spirited discussion as scientists, comedians, and journalists explore the future of AI in a thought-provoking manner.  There are plenty more thought-provoking talks and performances across Sydney CBD during Vivid, so be sure to check what's on and make it a fun and informative outing. 

 

Visiting from out of town? Plan your trip to Sydney

Accommodation: Nearby and central Sydney accommodation options, inclusive of member discount, so you can spend more money on dining out and enjoying Vivid Sydney’s attractions.

• Save 10% on one-night stays at TFE Hotels.

Car rental: Planning to zip around the city between or discover the many beaches? Members save 15% on daily rental rates with SIXT Australia.

My NRMA app: Find and save on your nearest fuel and dining and discover nearby NRMA member benefits on the My NRMA app.

For more information on Vivid Sydney and the full program, visit: vividsydney.com.

Image credits: Destination NSW