Vivid Sydney, Australia’s largest event, is set to illuminate the city from Friday, 23 May to Saturday, 14 June 2025, embracing the theme “Dream” and inviting audiences to explore the profound question: What’s in a dream?
For 23 electrifying nights, Sydney will transform into a creative wonderland, featuring breathtaking light installations, world-class music performances, thought-provoking discussions, and immersive culinary experiences. As the Southern Hemisphere’s premier multi-artform festival, Vivid Sydney 2025 marks its 15th edition, delivering an unmissable winter spectacle that attracts visitors from across the globe.
A Feast for the Senses: Lights, Art, and Immersive Installations
Over 75% of the festival’s programming—including the spectacular Vivid Light Walk—will be free for all to enjoy. This signature experience will showcase cutting-edge projection mapping and world-class animation, bringing Sydney’s iconic landmarks to life.
Some of the festival’s most anticipated light installations include:
- “Kiss of Light” – A radiant tribute to the late Australian artist David McDiarmid, illuminating the Sydney Opera House.
- “King Dingo” – A powerful projection by acclaimed artist Vincent Namatjira, displayed on the Museum of Contemporary Art.
- “House of Romance” – A dazzling fashion-inspired visual narrative by Romance Was Born, taking over Customs House.
Vivid Food: Culinary Stars Take Centre Stage
Vivid Sydney’s renowned culinary program returns with a star-studded lineup, including celebrity chef Nigella Lawson, who will curate three exclusive Vivid Sydney Dinners in the breathtaking Muru Giligu tunnel. “Having loved it for years, it is the hugest thrill to be part of the Vivid Food program,” Lawson expressed.
Festival favorites like Vivid Fire Kitchen and the Chef Series will also return, celebrating the diverse flavors of New South Wales cuisine with leading local and international chefs.
Inspiring Minds: Global Thought Leaders Take the Stage
The Ideas Program will feature a dynamic lineup of visionary speakers, including:
- D.W. Pine – Creative Director of TIME Magazine, exploring the intersection of design and storytelling.
- Professor Matthew Walker – A world-renowned sleep scientist, sharing insights into the power of dreams and rest.
Adding to the immersive experiences, Netflix’s “Stranger Things: The Experience” will make its Australian debut at Luna Park Sydney, offering fans a thrilling, interactive adventure designed by the show’s creators.
Unforgettable Music Performances
Vivid Sydney 2025 boasts an electrifying music lineup, with performances at the Sydney Opera House from:
- Anohni and The Johnsons
- Beth Gibbons of Portishead
- Icelandic icons Sigur Rós with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra
- Japanese Breakfast
For those seeking free live music, Tumbalong Nights will host an array of international and Australian artists, making the festival accessible to all.
A Must-See Festival in 2025
With its blend of spectacular lights, visionary art, thought-provoking ideas, and unforgettable entertainment, Vivid Sydney 2025 promises to be a world-class cultural experience unlike any other. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning fan, this year’s festival invites everyone to dream, explore, and be inspired.
“Vivid Sydney continues to find exciting new ways to bring colour, creativity and fun to our city,” said The Hon. John Graham, NSW Minister for Jobs and Tourism.
Vivid Sydney Festival Director Gill Minervini said the festival’s Dream theme is something that we all experience, and it can be interpreted in a myriad of ways.
“Dreaming is as old as time and as universal as life itself. Dreams can be prophetic, life changing and inspirational, as well as trivial, hilarious or terrifying. These interactions are evident in every aspect of Vivid Sydney’s program this year.
Vivid Sydney 2025: Official Partners Powering the Festival
Vivid Sydney 2025 proudly welcomes Samsung as a returning Major Partner, bringing an awe-inspiring light and water show to Cockle Bay Wharf.
Among the Official Partners, Estée Lauder returns for its second year, while Ausgrid will illuminate Tumbalong Nights, powering a vibrant lineup of live music performances.
Airbnb continues as Vivid Sydney’s Community Partner, supporting the volunteer program, while the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation joins as the Charity Partner for 2025, helping bring light and hope to young lives.
The post Australia Glows as Vivid Sydney 2025 Transforms the City from 23 May to 14 June with the Enchanting Theme ‘Dream’ appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
