The highly anticipated return of Vivid Sydney is just around the corner, with the festival set to light up the city for its 14th year from 26 May until 17 June, inclusive. This year's theme, Naturally, promises to be a spectacular celebration of the living world with over 300 attractions including light installations, music performances, talks, culinary celebrations and more. Make the most of your Vivid experience with our guide to the best things to see and do throughout the festival.

Image credit: Destination NSW

See the lights from new heights

1/11

Climbing the Harbour Bridge during Vivid is the ultimate way to experience Sydney from a new perspective. BridgeClimb runs nightly throughout the festival, with the first departure at 4pm timed perfectly for viewing the big "lights-on" moment at 6pm. The 1,332 steps climb is a three hour return trip and along the way you'll enjoy 360 degree views stretching from the harbour to the iconic city skyline.

Become a kid again

2/11

Novotel Sydney Central has teamed up with Sugar Republic to bring an exciting installation to the hotel lobby throughout Vivid. Open to the public, guests both big and small are encouraged to jump into the life-sized ball pit filled to the brim with colourful balls and neon lights. If you’re looking to extend your city break, the hotel is also offering a dedicated Vivid package complete with overnight accommodation, buffet breakfast and glow sticks for the kids.

Cruise with your favourite chef

3/11

Luxury superyacht The Jackson will host Chefs on the Harbour, offering bespoke menus curated by some of Australia’s top chefs with the glittering city as the backdrop. Nelly Robinson, the owner and executive chef of award-winning restaurant Nel, Khanh Ong, a fan-favourite from MasterChef Australia and First Nations chef, Mark Olive, host of popular TV shows, The Outback Cafe and The Chefs' Line, will deliver five-course degustation menus with more chefs to be announced.

Dine on the NSW coast

4/11

Be transported to the lush forests and wild coast of New South Wales in the immersive Vivid Experience at 6HEAD. This multi-sensory culinary experience combines gastronomy and theatrical storytelling via immersive light and soundscapes across two dining rooms. Guests can choose the set menu curated by chef Sean Hall or dine à la carte as they overlook the illuminated Sydney Harbour.

Swap the city for the suburban zoo

5/11

Head out of the city and into Taronga Zoo for Wild Lights, the after-dark event that transforms Australian wildlife into giant art sculptures. With over 100 lanterns – including new additions created by First Nations artist Nathan Peckham of Yurana Creative – illuminating a brand new night trail, you'll embark on a 90 minute adventure to meet some of the country's most iconic animals including the emu, possum, echidna and koala. The event runs from 26 May – 17 June, every Wednesday to Sunday. Guests can extend their visit and stay overnight at the luxurious Wildlife Retreat or go glamping at Roar and Snore.

Take a cocktail break

6/11

Located 32 levels above Sydney Harbour, rooftop bar Aster delivers front-row views of Sydney Harbour away from the bustling crowds below. Sit back and enjoy a three-course menu paired with expertly crafted cocktails while watching the colourful light projections dance across the Sydney Opera House.

Image credit: Estaban La Tessa

A show in the clouds

7/11

If you want to catch the incredible Written In The Stars drone show during Vivid, it's worth planning ahead to avoid the crowds. The display features 1,000 drones twirling over Circular Quay – the biggest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere – taking you on a journey through the solar system. The show will run over six dates between 28 May – 14 June, starting at 9:10pm. Perch yourself at one of the many bars in the area (try Hacienda or Opera Bar) or head to Mrs Macquarie’s Chair for a quieter view. Don’t forget to download the Cinewav app and tune-in to the accompanying audio.

Image credit: Glenn Mckimmin

Pre-plan and don’t miss out

8/11

Vivid’s ticketed calendar of events has pulled out all the stops in 2023. For music fans, A Bend in the River: A Tribute to Archie Roach on 9 June celebrates the legacy of the Australian musician. For photography enthusiasts, the masterclass from the south-east pylon of the Sydney Harbour Bridge is a great opportunity to learn from landscape photographer Glenn Mckimmin. Don't miss the chance to join creator, writer, and director of The White Lotus, Mike White, in conversation with actress and series star Jennifer Coolidge. Whichever event you choose, make sure to book your tickets early to avoid missing out on these unforgettable experiences.

Take to the harbour

9/11

Take an after-dark trip on a ferry during Vivid and you'll be dazzled by illuminated buildings and landmarks as you glide through the harbour. Simply tap on and off with a credit or debit card (you can even use your phone, if your card is connected) and your scenic tour is underway. Ferries depart from Circular Quay, Barangaroo and Taronga Zoo with 10 different ferry services running during Vivid Sydney, so you can easily find a route that suits you.

Image credit: © Geoff Lung

Wake up to front-row views of the Opera House

10/11

For the ultimate avoid-the-crowds experience, nothing beats curling up under a cosy duvet and ordering room service (think: slow-cooked beef cheek with roasted macadamias, drizzled in balsamic) with the Opera House just outside your window. From 26 May – 17 June, Four Seasons Sydney is offering a special Vivid package that comes with guaranteed harbour views, buffet breakfast and Vivid-themed amenities – and you’ll be footsteps away from all the main attractions. If you’re in the mood to party, pop on your dancing shoes and head to Grain Bar on a Friday or Saturday night during Vivid for glow face painting, champagne and live DJs.

Image credit: Alamy Stock Photo