Make Vivid 2024 Your Must-See Event in Sydney

If you have yet to go to Sydney Harbour during Vivid, what are you waiting for?! The Vivid Festival of lights will soon be among us for 2024, and the lineup of visual effects keeps improving. From laser lights, drone shows, and 3D visual art displays to an array of food and drink stalls, Vivid has something for all groups of any size.

Vivid has been running in Sydney since 2009. This Festival of lights lasts 18 days, starting in late May and ending mid-June. During this time, Sydney’s iconic landmarks are transformed into a dazzling display of lights, music, and art. The Festival features interactive light installations, live music performances, and talks from leading creative minds. It’s the perfect way to see the Harbour in a whole new light (see what we did there).

The Festival’s highlight is the spectacular light show that illuminates Sydney’s skyline and landmarks. The show features 3D projections on buildings such as the Sydney Opera House and the Museum of Contemporary Art. You can also take a stroll along the harbourfront to admire the colourful light sculptures that line the waterfront. As someone who has seen the light displays in person, it is an incredible experience and must be seen in person.

If you’re looking for something more interactive, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained. You can participate in workshops led by local artists or join one of the many guided tours around the city. In addition, plenty of food stalls offer delicious treats from some of your favourite restaurants – perfect for fuelling up before continuing your adventure!

One of the best ways to take in all the lights is on a Vivid Sydney Harbour boat cruise. Jump on board some incredible boats and take in all the festival offers. You’ll take in all the landmarks lit up, and have some of the best vantage points to take pictures from the boat. You can search some of the best vivid cruises here, or if you’ve got a few more questions you need to be answered, find out everything you need to know about Vivid below.

What is Vivid Sydney?

Vivid Sydney is an annual outdoor lighting festival in Sydney, Australia. It is the largest event of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere and features interactive light installations, music performances, and ideas exchange.

Do you need tickets for Vivid?

No, the Vivid Festival of lights is a free event and can be viewed by walking down the streets of the Sydney CBD, Rocks or Darling Harbour. There are lots of free activities to join. You can get a breakdown of all the free events here.

Some concerts, Vivid boat cruises, experiences, and of course, food stalls will have a cost.

What are the dates to see Vivid in Sydney?

Vivid runs from late May to mid-June. In 2024, Vivid is running from the 24th May to 15th June. These 18 days have different events happening all throughout the Sydney CBD, and the Rocks, so you’ll have plenty of reasons to come back day after day to see something new!

When did Vivid start?

Vivid Sydney first started in 2009 and has become one of Australia’s most popular events. It is a celebration of light, music and ideas that brings together artists from around the world to create a unique experience for visitors.

When is the Vivid Drone show?

This year, the Vivid 2024 drone show runs across three nights in June. You’ll be able to see this spectacular visual experience take to the sky. You’ll watch as 700 drones light up and put on a performance to remember. If you want to catch the Vivid 2024 Drone show, they run on the 8th, 9th and 15th of June. These shows will typically start around 9pm and take flight over Circular Quay.

The Vivid drone performance is called Love Is In The Air. It is directed by Gill Minervini and the drones dance to the soundtrack by Peewee Ferris. Make sure to check for exact timing, and don’t miss out as these Vivid drone shows have quickly become a crowd favourite.

What is the Vivid Festival of lights about?

The Festival showcases a range of interactive light installations, music performances, talks and workshops that explore the intersection between art, technology and commerce.

As you walk through Sydney CBD or the rocks, you’ll be treated to some incredible shows. Everywhere you look there is something to see. Take in an interactive art display, or stop by to listen to some amazing live bands. There is something different on every street corner.

It was originally created to bring light to artists throughout Australia and drive visitors to the Sydney CBD during the cooler winter months.

Where can I find a map of all the Vivid installations?

You can find a detailed map of all the lights walks and activities happening this year for Vivid at the official website.

Once you’ve planned your walks and visit to Sydney during Vivid, don’t forget to look into a Vivid boat cruise. These cruises start from as low as $35 for a 90 minute or more boat cruise on the Harbour.

As you head out on a Vivid cruise for 2024, you’ll get the most amazing vantage point to take in this annual event. Starting in the city, you’ll head out onto the Harbour. You’ll see all the major attractions like the bridge, Opera House, Taronga Zoo and Luna Park, covered in a beautiful light art display in a way you’ve never seen before. Sounds bloody good, right? Get your Vivid boat cruise tickets here.