The Vivid 2025 events you don't want to miss

New and improved, Vivid Sydney is just around the corner.

It’s that time of year again – Sydney’s favourite light show is back. Celebrating its 15th anniversary in 2025, Vivid Sydney is stepping things up with five new connecting zones stretching across Sydney Harbour and the CBD. Returning from 23 May to 14 June, the annual festival promises dazzling displays, epic music performances, thought-provoking ideas, mouth-watering food events and more.

Expect eight iconic Sydney landmarks to light up for the first time, too. Joining the Sydney Opera House, MCA and Customs House will be Challis House and the CTA building in Martin Place, the Museum of Sydney, The Bond in Barangaroo and Argyle Cut in The Rocks. From captivating installations to immersive experiences that will spark your imagination, there’s no shortage of reasons to get out and explore.

1. Embark on a Vivid Light Cruise

Where: Sydney Harbour, Sydney

Vivid Light Cruise for Vivid Sydney 2024 — See Vivid in all its glory for the water. (Image: Destination NSW)

One special way to admire the canvas of the city during Vivid is on a Sydney Harbour cruise with Captain Cook . Departing from Darling Harbour, your vessel will coast by key precincts like Barangaroo, The Rocks, Luna Park and Circular Quay. On select nights, guests can even catch dazzling firework displays from the water.

Take it to the next level by booking an onboard dining experience, from a six-course degustation on superyacht The Jackson to a family-friendly two-course seating as the lights turn on. With nightly offerings at a variety of price points, nobody has to miss out on a cruise during Vivid.

2. Laugh with Nick Offerman and Megan Mullally

Where: International Convention Centre, Darling Harbour

Nick Offerman and Megan Mullally for Vivid 2025 — Don’t miss Nick Offerman and Megan Mullally in conversation. (Image: Emily Shur)

Comedy’s favourite power couple will be attending Vivid this year with one sole purpose: to make you laugh as much as possible. For one night only (14 June), Unscripted & Unfiltered with Nick Offerman & Megan Mullally will offer guests a never-before-seen insight into the actors’ careers, collaborations, activism projects and more.

It will be the first time Nick and Megan – best known for their roles in Parks & Recreation and Will & Grace, respectively – will appear in a live, onstage in-conversation together, despite spending over a quarter of a century as a couple. Tickets are on sale now, but selling out fast!

3. Witness the Opera House light up

Where: Bennelong Point, Sydney

Vivid 2025 — The installation honours the late David McDiarmid and his works.

One of the most brilliant displays of technology and light takes form on the Opera House each year during Vivid. This year, the iconic Sydney landmark will be transformed by the late David McDiarmid’s Lighting of the Sails: Kiss of Light , to honour the 30th anniversary of his passing.

Textures and colour collide to create a patchwork canvas across the facade, touching on themes of truth, fear and memory through four key bodies of work. Over seven minutes, the animation will project ideas of equality, inclusion and freedom, as well as joy, curiosity and creative rebellion.

4. Visit Hawkins with Stranger Things: The Experience

Where: Luna Park, North Sydney

Stranger Things The Experience Vivid Sydney 2025 — Transport yourself into an episode of Stranger Things. (Image: Vivid Sydney)

Adding a splash of pop-culture nostalgia, Netflix’s global sensation Stranger Things will come to life at Luna Park this year. The theme park will transform into the town of Hawkins a la 1986, with the immersive and exciting Stranger Things: The Experience , guaranteed to thrill fans of all ages.

Designed exclusively by the show’s creators, the immersive experience features near-exact replicas of the show’s most iconic locations, as well as live actors, special effects and supernatural challenges. After saving Hawkins from the Upside Down, reward yourself with a cocktail at Mix-Tape, the attraction’s 80s-themed pop-up bar.

5. Have a boogie at Tumbalong Nights

Where: Tumbalong Park, Darling Harbour

Tumbalong Nights for Vivid Sydney — Tumbalong Nights is perfect for the whole family. (Image: Destination NSW)

Hosted in Darling Harbour’s Tumbalong Park, the aptly named Tumbalong Nights is the place to be for free and eclectic contemporary music. Artists from Australia and around the world, from global icons to emerging Aussie talents, will take to the stage to get your hips swaying from Thursday to Saturday. DJs keep the excitement high from Sunday to Wednesday, with children’s shows each Saturday afternoon.

The line-up is brimming with talent this year – Winston Surfshirt and Jerome Blazé will bring the funky jazz vibes, while soulful R&B is delivered in droves by Adrian Eagle and Jada Weazel – just to name a few. There will also be a series of powerful First Nations storytelling sessions, as well as a diverse array of languages and cultures.

6. Take a moment with Martha

Where: International Convention Centre, Darling Harbour

Martha Stewart for Vivid 2025 — Spend an evening with Martha Stewart at Vivid. (Image: Destination NSW)

Another global icon coming to Vivid this year is American sweetheart, Martha Stewart. The Emmy Award-winning television host and best-selling author will sit down with Benjamin Law for an Australian exclusive, discussing everything from her expansive career to her home life.

Don’t miss the opportunity to learn from the master of modern living herself, as she takes to the stage just once (28 May) at the International Convention Centre. It doesn’t matter if you’ve come for her magazines and books or TV shows and retail brands, you’ll hear about it all at In Conversation with Martha Stewart .

7. Wander the Light Walk

Where: Throughout Sydney

Vivid Sydney 2025 — Vincent Namatjira’s King Dingo lights up the MCA. (Image: Destination NSW/Vivid Sydney)

If you’ve attended in recent years, you’ll know that the festival introduced ticketed events, much to the dismay of many visitors. But in 2025, over 75 per cent of the festival’s program will return to being totally free – including Vivid’s iconic Light Walk!

Wander over, under and through a curated collection of stunning works, from Circular Quay and the Rocks, over to Barangaroo and through Darling Harbour. Don’t miss the premiere of Vincent Namatjira’s King Dingo , which will illuminate the Museum of Contemporary Art accompanied by an original score from Jeremy Whiskey.

8. Get spooked by Haus of Horror

Where: Town Hall, Sydney

Edward Scissorhands still for Vivid 2025 — Catch Tim Burton’s Edward Scissorhands in the former burial ground at Town Hall.

This year, the jump-scare experts at Haus of Horror are transforming the former burial ground at Sydney’s Town Hall into an eerie outdoor cinema . Fans of Tim Burton can look forward to viewing his 1990s cult classic, Edward Scissorhands, on 8 June. Or settle in for a super spooky screening of Poltergeist later in the night.

Feeling brave? The immersive experience goes beyond spooky screenings, mixing in a variety of immersive installations and live performers for good measure. You’ll have an hour and a half to thoroughly creep yourself out before settling in for your film of choice, if you make it that far…

9. Get a bird’s-eye view on a Bridge Climb

Where: BridgeClimb Sydney, The Rocks

The Sydney Harbour Bridge during Vivid — The Sydney Harbour Bridge offers unbelievable views of Vivid. (Image: Destination NSW)

Join BridgeClimb Sydney for the ultimate view of Vivid this year. A Vivid Sydney Climb is an unforgettable experience that offers guests the chance to ascend to the summit of the Sydney Harbour Bridge during the festival. You’ll see everything from the Sydney Opera House covered in a canvas of colours to The Rocks, Darling Harbour and beyond.

Your package includes a guided three-hour climb, a printed photo, certificate, cap and complimentary post-climb G&T (on weekends). Handy hint: the first climb that departs each afternoon is the best, timed to reach the summit as Vivid’s lights and installations are switched on for the evening.

10. Skate and snack at Neon Dreams

Where: Pier Street Underpass, Darling Harbour

Neon Dreams at Vivid 2025 — Roller-skate into the night at Neon Dreams. (Image: Destination NSW)

Step from the streets of Sydney into a mail plane from 1979, which will mysteriously appear beneath the Pier Street Underpass just for Vivid. Food and fun combine to create Neon Dreams , a roller-disco diner that is somehow retro and futuristic all at once – complete with plant-based burgers cooked up by vegan masterchef, Shannon Martinez.

After smashing a delicious feed, grab your skates – the roller rink awaits. Skate and boogie to your heart’s content as DJ Bob Gherkin mixes vinyl-only beats throughout the night, followed by a milkshake or cocktail whipped up by Trolly’d bar. Just be sure to grab a ticket before hitting the rink!

11. Go gig-hopping at Vivid LIVE

Where: Sydney Opera House, Circular Quay

Live music lovers are in for a month of rhythmic bliss, as more than 50 local and international artists perform at the Sydney Opera House as part of Vivid LIVE 2025 . The line-up is practically bursting with talent, dipping into genres, moods and sounds that cater to all kinds of auditory tastes.

If you’re a fan of classical music, don’t miss Sigur Rós with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra (23–25 May). Boogie into the night with indie-pop’s latest breakout star, Ravyn Lenae (25 May). Easygoing groovers will enjoy the soulful croon of folk master Marlon Williams (29 May). Plus so much more.

12. Spice it up at the Vivid Fire Kitchen

Where: The Goods Line, Ultimo

Vivid Fire Kitchen for Vivid Sydney — Vivid Fire Kitchen is a feast for the senses. (Image: Destination NSW)

Treat yourself to a meal (or two) of full-on flavour at the Vivid Fire Kitchen , where the open-flame grills won’t be the only thing that’s hot. This year’s featured chefs are bringing the heat under the theme of Fire & Spice, which celebrates the world’s most spice-driven cuisines.

Indulge in street food from around the world, from slow-cooked barbecue and sustainable seafood to native ingredients and locally sourced produce. Don’t miss the free live cooking demonstrations either, where leading chefs may reveal a secret or two.

13. Spend a night at the Supper Club

Where: Mary’s Underground, Sydney

Vivid Sydney Supper Club for Vivid Sydney — Head to Mary’s Underground for the Vivid Sydney Supper Club. (Image: Destination NSW)

A recurring program favourite, the Vivid Sydney Supper Club is back for another year of world-class comedy, cabaret and more. The speakeasy-style bar will transform into a hidden haven of music, mischief and midnight snacks – with an incredible line-up to match.

If you’re a fan of Angela Bishop, Luke Carrol, Amber Lawrence or Mark Humphries (plus so many more), I’d be booking tickets now. Whether you pull on your country boots for Tamworth to Tennessee or dance the night away with Celebrating Eurovision, you’re in for an absolute treat.

14. Soak it all in from Bennelong Bar

Where: Sydney Opera House, Circular Quay

Vivid Sydney 2024 — Bennelong Bar provides front-row seats to Vivid.

With so many incredible events, it can all get a bit overwhelming. Sneak an hour or two of solace at the Sydney Opera House’s Bennelong Bar , where you can eat like a king against an illuminated city backdrop. A blend of art and architecture, it’s all about the experience here.

You’ll be in the safe hands of executive chef Peter Gilmore, who is whipping up four delicious snack offerings as part of a festival-specific package ($65 per person). You’ll also be treated to a bespoke cocktail named Dream Theatre, crafted with Full Circle Summer Berry gin, smoked white rum, purified guava and Vivid pearls.

Underpinned by grassroots hospitality and award-winning organic produce, the Central Coast’s gastronomy scene is thriving, with the region quickly becoming one of the best destinations in NSW for epicures.

Revered for its rugged natural splendour and laid-back seaside charm, NSW’s Central Coast has soared in popularity in recent years, becoming a top choice for an affordable slice of weekend escapism for Sydneysiders. Just a short 45-minute drive north of Sydney, it’s the kind of place that, no matter how many times you visit, leaves you with the sense that there’s always more to uncover. But while the ocean pools, bushwalks and beaches have (rightly) taken the spotlight, it’s the Central Coast food offerings which have been quietly simmering in the background.

From fresh-as-it-gets seafood and juicy organic citrus you can pluck yourself, through to regenerative farming and reputable farm-to-fork dining, this coastal gem has become an idyllic foodie mecca. Here are some of the best ways to immerse yourself in grassroots hospitality and gastronomic glory on the NSW Central Coast.

vegetables in a basket at Bells Garden at Bells At Killcare — From picking your own, to farm-to-table, discover the best Central Coast food experiences. (Image: Remy Brand)

Central Coast oyster experiences

From humble grub to opulent delicacy, oysters have ascended into a league of their own. Epicureans are fascinated by them – willing to pay upwards of $35 per dozen (double at some of Sydney’s reputable fine dining restaurants) – and ‘shuck bars’ seem to be popping up at every milestone celebration.

But it’s rare to find places that really draw back the curtain on how they’re farmed and why everyone is mad for these molluscs. The Central Coast , however, is home to several of these venues. With its pristine waters, mild climate and nutrient-rich estuaries, it’s the perfect breeding ground for oysters.

Learn about oyster farming and, importantly, how to shuck them at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours . Nestled on the Hawkesbury River at Mooney Mooney, Sheridan Beaumont and her team offer a hands-on foodie experience where you can feast on dozens of oysters (white tablecloth and all) while wading through the calm waters. You can even bring your own bottle of bubbles to wash them down.

guests in the water for an experience at Sydney Oyster Farm - Central Coast food — Learn tricks of the trade at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours. (Image: Remy Brand)

Elevate your oyster knowledge even further by heading north over the Hawkesbury River Bridge to the Hawkesbury River Oyster Shed . Tour their scenic oyster leases and saltwater paddocks by boat to uncover the distinct characteristics of the Sydney rock oyster and creamy Pacific oyster. They’ve also partnered with Broken Bay Pearl Farm to offer a one-of-a-kind oyster and pearl farming guided tour, showcasing the Central Coast’s very own pearl oyster, the Broken Bay ‘Akoya’. But if you’re simply in the mood to devour a dozen delectable oysters while soaking in the tranquil river views, pull up a chair at the shed. It’s friendly in every sense of the word: pets, families and BYO welcome.

shucking oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Taste freshly shucked oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm. (Image: James Horan)

Central Coast farms to pick your own fruit

While the Central Coast is known for its breathtaking 40 beaches and 80-kilometre coastline, its lush hinterland is equally impressive – abundant with orchards and agriculturally rich farmland. And when it comes to the simple joy of picking your own fruit, the Central Coast is a ripe playground.

Family-owned Meliora Farm at Peats Ridge is an orchard that blends conventional, biodynamic and organic philosophies. Third-generation farmer Tim Kemp and his wife Elise are dedicated to honouring the family legacy by growing a rich variety of oranges, lemons, limes, mandarins and avocados. In late May, roam the sustainable and nutrient-dense property during ‘Pick Your Own’ weekends.

Eastcoast Beverages is another bountiful citrus orchard boasting over 60 hectares of fruit. From June you can learn about the cultivation of high-quality ingredients – like lemons, limes, grapefruit and oranges – by touring both the farm and factory before setting out and picking your own straight from the source. You can also sample an array of citrus-inspired sweet and savoury treats at their on-site cafe, Bambino’s .

If it’s just juicy oranges you’re after, Cedar Farm in Dooralong is a must-visit. Located about 30 minutes north of Peats Ridge, it features 15 flourishing orchards and over 3000 orange trees – with take-home bags during the season (from July) at low prices. Not bad for a fruity weekend haul.

woman picking oranges at Oranges at Dooralong — Pick your own citrus fruits on the Central Coast. (Image: James Vodicka)

Organic dining

What makes the Central Coast hinterland so special is the unwavering respect the communities have for their cherished backyard. Locally owned and operated farms are all striving for more sustainable practices and methods to both enhance biodiversity and reduce environmental impact, each with a heartwarming food philosophy.

The Food Farm in Wyong Creek believes good food is worth both the work and the wait. Devoted to regenerative farming, first-generation ‘farmily’ Tim Eyes and Hannah Greenshields are recognised for their grass-fed, grass-finished beef and pasture-raised, gold medal-winning chickens. With an open gate policy, The Food Farm encourages visitors to swing by and try some of their slow-grown produce at their small ‘honesty’ farm shop. With no staff, you can pick up a few quality cuts of meat and pasteurised eggs, leaving the owing amount in cash or via eftpos.

Keeping the spirit of generational organic farming alive is Fanelli Organics . Nestled in the Central Coast’s scenic and sleepy Mangrove Mountain, founders Eden and Louise Fanelli own over 45 hectares of plentiful farmland and orchards that produce a huge range of organic fruit and vegetables, like purple Dutch carrots, blood oranges, broccoli and Tuscan kale. A true home-grown operation, Fanelli Organics shares its fresh produce with local restaurants and community markets, including the beloved markets at Like Minds Cafe at Avoca Beach every Wednesday afternoon.

farmers holding fresh produce picked at Fanelli Organics — See where your food comes from at Fanelli Organics.

Paddock-to-plate dining

High-quality ingredients go hand in hand with premium dining, and the Central Coast is home to several paddock-to-plate restaurants that showcase its diverse and rich agriculture. Paired with warm, grassroots hospitality, there are culinary triumphs, new menus and revered chefs constantly popping up, putting the local dining scene firmly on the map.

Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce. Nestled in thick bushland with wraparound verandahs, floral gardens and an idyllic dam, the gourmet homestead and bakehouse is unlike any restaurant on the Central Coast. Here, head chef Reece Collins and his team serve up an impressive breakfast and lunch menu that oozes rustic charm. Pull up a comfy armchair on the expansive deck, listen to birdsong, and tuck into flavoursome dishes like the farmhouse Benedict with honey-cured ham, lemon myrtle hollandaise and Warrigal gremolata, or the hearty beef brisket pie with confit garlic potato purée and rainbow chard.

woman writing in notebook next to a table of food at Saddles, Central Coast food — Taste country-style cooking at Saddles. (Image: Destination NSW)

Delivering a slice of sophistication and luxury to the shores and bushland of Bouddi Peninsula is Bells at Killcare . One of the few boutique resorts on the Central Coast, it’s known for its premium service and five-star suites, as well as its bountiful kitchen gardens that boast an orchard, olive trees, avocado trees, free-range hens and a honey bee hive.

Cameron Cansdell has returned to Bells at Killcare as head chef, bringing his expertise to the casual yet refined menus that feature a raw bar with Oscietra caviar, freshly shucked Sydney rock oysters and Moreton Bay bugs, all served alongside optional matched wines. Sample some of Australia’s best regional wines and standout dishes, like roasted Wollemi duck with grilled leeks, rocket, grilled grapes and 10-year-aged balsamic, or the shareworthy salt-crusted snapper with herb salad and salsa, before roaming the picturesque gardens, wine in hand.

cocktail at Bells At Killcare — Sample incredible wine, cocktails and dishes at Bells At Killcare. (Image: Nikki To)

Plan your next visit to the delicious Central Coast.

The 14 vivid events you don’t want to miss this year