The Harbour City has awakened in colour and creativity tonight as Vivid Sydney 2025, Australia’s largest event, has officially begun for its 15th year. Under this year’s theme of Dream, a world-class curation of Light, Ideas, Music and Food await festival goers over 23 nights, until Saturday, 14 June.
This year, the festival comprises over 200 events across five unique zones around the city’s CBD, all designed to inspire wonder, expand thinking and give each visitor the opportunity to see Sydney in a new light.
Making Vivid Sydney more accessible than ever, over 75 per cent of this year’s program is free to enjoy, including the entire Vivid Light Walk, Martin Place also makes a welcome return to the festival footprint after a seven-year absence.
A testament to the international reputation of the festival, this year, the world’s biggest names in entertainment, food, and pop culture will feature, including Martha Stewart, Nigella Lawson, Nick Offerman and Megan Mullally, plus Portishead’s Beth Gibbons.
Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said, “Vivid Sydney is our city’s living legacy and the world’s focus will once again be on our beautiful Harbour City as it’s transformed into a canvas of innovative light installations, immersive experiences and cutting-edge artistry.
“The tireless efforts from the many talented artists, technicians, event organisers and behind-the-scenes support crew to bring this year’s Vivid Sydney to life has been extraordinary. I congratulate all of those who have contributed to shaping this year’s event into what will be an unmissable Sydney experience.”
Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said, “Sydney is ready to shine! As we mark 15 years, this world-class event continues to showcase the very best destinations and creative talent our city has to offer.
“Vivid Sydney continues to grow in scale and impact, drawing millions of visitors and reinforcing Sydney’s position as the premier destination in the Asia Pacific.
“With over 75 per cent of the program free to attend and the entire Vivid Light Walk open to everyone, it is one of the most accessible events in the country, and this year’s program has something for everyone.
“It’s a festival that unites communities, supports local businesses and boosts our visitor and night-time economies. We can’t wait to see the city light up tonight!”
Vivid Sydney Festival Director, Gill Minervini said, “This year, we invite you to dream, without limits, without borders, as you immerse yourself in our most diverse, interactive and ambitious program yet.
“Wander through glowing installations and projections that invite you to play, reflect and connect. Soak up genre-spanning sounds, from free gigs to global icons. Expand your thinking through bold, original conversations and exclusive experiences. Follow your senses as leading local and international chefs serve up flavours from every corner of the globe.
“As my final year as Festival Director, this one is extra special. It’s a celebration of creativity, technology, big ideas and, above all else, connection. A festival built on the dreams we share and the joy we create together. Let’s light up our city, and our collective imagination, for the next 23 unforgettable nights.”
Vivid Sydney 2025 kicked off at Overseas Passenger Terminal in Circular Quay for the annual First Light ceremony, featuring performances by NAISDA dancers that honoured Yolngu culture in Arnhem Land. The ceremony culminated at 6pm as Sydney Harbour burst to life with pyrotechnics, projections and installations illuminating the city’s world-famous buildings and landmarks followed by First Light Live, a free concert honouring the power and pride of First Nations music.
