A Festival Reimagined Inviting You To Dream: Vivid Sydney 2025 Program Revealed

Vivid 2025

A City Transformed by Light, Music, Ideas, and Food

Australia’s largest event will once again transform the Harbour City in 2025, from Friday, 23 May to Saturday, 14 June, inviting visitors and locals alike to immerse themselves in a dreamlike world of creativity and innovation. This year’s theme, "Dream," dares to explore the depths of imagination and inspiration through five interconnected zones across Sydney.

A Redesigned Festival Footprint

Celebrating its 15th year, Vivid Sydney has expanded to include Circular Quay and The Rocks, Barangaroo, Martin Place and CBD (returning for the first time since 2018), Darling Harbour, and The Goods Line and Inner City. Each of these vibrant zones will host events across the festival’s key pillars: Light, Music, Ideas, and Food.

A Feast for the Senses: Vivid Light, Music, Ideas, and Food

Vivid Light will illuminate Sydney like never before, featuring breathtaking projections and interactive installations. The Sydney Opera House will showcase "Kiss of Light (2025)," a stunning tribute to Australian artist David McDiarmid, while Vincent Namatjira’s "King Dingo" will take over the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia. Visitors can also experience world-leading animation and projection technology at Customs House with "House of Romance" by Romance Was Born.

Music lovers will revel in an extraordinary lineup at Vivid Music, with free concerts at Tumbalong Park, international sensations at Carriageworks, and unforgettable performances at Sydney Opera House, including Sigur Rós, Beth Gibbons of Portishead, and Marlon Williams.

Vivid Ideas promises a captivating lineup of thought leaders, including TIME Magazine’s Creative Director D.W. Pine and sleep scientist Professor Matthew Walker. Free talks, theatre performances, and cultural events will be held at Barangaroo Reserve and across the city.

Food enthusiasts will be treated to an exclusive dining experience curated by Nigella Lawson. The celebrated food writer and TV cook will design a unique menu for three Vivid Sydney Dinners at Muru Giligu in Martin Place. The Vivid Fire Kitchen will return to The Goods Line, and new culinary experiences will light up Sydney’s Hollywood Quarter with vibrant food trails and street parties.

New Experiences and Expanded Venues

Lunar Park in the Dark

This year’s festival boasts an array of firsts, including Stranger Things: The Experience at Luna Park, an immersive journey into the supernatural world of the hit Netflix series. Eight new buildings and landmarks will be illuminated, and the Vivid Light Walk remains entirely free to enjoy.

The city’s music scene will come alive with concerts at Metro Theatre and City Recital Hall, featuring diverse artists from around the globe. Additionally, Oxford Art Factory will welcome UK rap sensations Pete & Bas, while local music labels Bad Apples and NLV Records will celebrate milestone anniversaries with exclusive performances.

A Celebration of Creativity and Connection

Vivid Sydney Festival Director Gill Minervini highlights the universal and transformative power of dreams, which are at the heart of this year’s festival. With an expanded program of cutting-edge art, music, food, and ideas, Vivid Sydney 2025 invites visitors to embrace the magic of creativity in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.

Plan Your Vivid Sydney Experience

With over 75% of the program free to enjoy, this year’s festival offers something for everyone. Tickets for select events are on sale now. For full program details and bookings, visit www.vividsydney.com.