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| Lighting of the Sails: Kiss of Light by David McDiarmid |
Why wait for the weekend when Vivid Sydney transforms your weeknights into a vibrant escape? As the city comes alive with light, music, and creativity, there's no better way to shake off the workday than with a carefully curated night out. Whether you’ve got your work crew in tow or someone a little more special, these after-work itineraries blend must-see installations with the best places to eat, drink and unwind in the heart of the festival.
1) Circular Quay and The Rocks
This zone is where Sydney’s icons shine brightest — a dazzling blend of artistic innovation and harbour magic.
Where to start
Begin your evening at Dreamscapes at Aster, the rooftop bar at InterContinental Sydney. With panoramic views of the harbour lit up for Vivid, and three curated mystery meals (Sweet, Spicy or Adventurous), it’s a dreamy launchpad into the night.
What to see and do
Watch the sails of the Opera House come alive with Kiss of Light by David McDiarmid, a bold celebration of self-expression. At Customs House, step into House of Romance: Dreams Collide — a surreal fashion fantasy by Romance Was Born. Don’t miss King Dingo at the MCA, a vibrant, satirical reimagining of Australian history by Vincent Namatjira.
Catch a live set at Vivid LIVE in the Sydney Opera House, or duck into the speakeasy-style Vivid Sydney Supper Club at Mary’s Underground, where themed nights offer music, comedy and surprises.
Where to kick on
End your evening at Opera Bar with unbeatable harbour views and a cocktail, or slip into Maybe Sammy for a signature spritz and timeless charm.
2) Martin Place and CBD
The heart of the city pulses with innovation and luminous creativity, just steps from your desk.
Where to start
The Lucid Dream Collective
Kick things off at AALIA, where chef Paul Farag plates bold Middle Eastern flavours with finesse. It’s also home to Our Shared Dream (28 May), a one-night sustainable feast not to miss.
What to see and do
Be the face of The Lucid Dream Collective, an interactive AI-powered projection by Moment Factory. Walk through Chasing Dreams Tunnel and Flowers’ Power, immersive artworks that turn Martin Place into a surreal wonderland. Cinephiles can catch short films and festival previews at SFFTV, while music lovers can hear Tangerine Dream (11 June) or Soccer Mommy (12 June) at City Recital Hall.
Where to kick on
Finish strong at Centro 86, with over 100 tequilas, unique margaritas, and a fun, underground vibe.
3) The Goods Line & Inner City
A fiery fusion of performance, food and futuristic installations.
Where to start
Eye of the Beholder
Warm up at Vivid Fire Kitchen, where live-fire cooking and smoky street eats hit the spot. Or dine for a cause at Our Shared Dream by OzHarvest, featuring four-course meals made from rescued ingredients by top Aussie chefs.
What to see and do
Gaze into the surreal Eye of the Beholder at UTS, then stroll through the starlit Starscape Tunnel. Nearby, Fireplaces ignites the night with flame-based artistry. At Carriageworks, catch Echoes of the Block (5 June) or hip-hop legends Black Star (10 June) live. In Surry Hills, explore the Hollywood Dreaming precinct with pop-up bars, shows and the Neon Trail.
Where to kick on
The Hollywood Hotel is your go-to. Relax midweek or swing by on Saturday when it transforms into the Late Night Vivid Lounge.
4) Barangaroo
A waterfront escape blending light, movement and culture with fine food and storytelling.
Where to start
Settle into a’Mare for a perfectly mixed negroni and waterfront views to match the glowing lights around you.
What to see and do
Don’t miss An Act of Being, a moving digital dance piece by Bangarra Dance Theatre. Wander through SomniUs, a dreamlike light canopy that responds to your every move. At STC, go behind the scenes with Inside the Dream Factory, or immerse yourself in the water-themed sensory journey I Don’t Dream, I Float.
Each Wednesday, Firetalk gathers First Nations voices around a fire for powerful storytelling sessions. Or explore the limits of human endurance and imagination in the theatre piece Endling.
Where to kick on
Wrap up at Barangaroo Wine Bar — understated, elegant and just the right note to end your night.
5) Darling Harbour
An electric playground of light, music and interactivity by the water’s edge.
Where to start
Curiosity
Start the night with drinks at Helm Bar, where you’re close to all the action but just far enough to relax.
What to see and do
Walk on water — almost — at Samsung’s Space to Dream, a breathtaking installation combining projection, reflection and movement. Try out Curiosity, a playful set of giant seesaws that light up with motion. Then make your way to Tumbalong Nights, where live music, DJs and an eclectic mix of performers fill the air with sound and energy.
Where to kick on
End your night at PS40, one of Sydney’s most innovative cocktail bars. Their inventive drinks make the perfect nightcap for a luminous evening.
Don’t wait for the weekend. Clock out, head in, and let Vivid Sydney light up your night.
Plan your after-dark adventures now at:
www.vividsydney.com
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