Event Dates
From: Friday, May 22, 2026
To: Saturday, June 13, 2026
The world’s largest festival of light lights up the Sydney skies for three weeks, featuring spectacular displays and cultural events.
The world’s largest festival of light, music and ideas, Vivid Sydney takes place in Sydney each year during May with stunning light displays across the city’s most famous landmarks.
- More than 650,000 visitors attend the Vivid Sydney festival. So book your hotel early as the event sells out Sydney’s popular CBD district early.
The Festival
- Next Edition: Friday 22nd May 2026 – Saturday 13th June, 2026.
- Over 20+ nights Vivid Sydney will paint the Harbor City in the color and spectacle of Vivid Light, take over Sydney stages with Vivid Music’s electric performances and collaborations, and provide a global forum for thought-provoking debate and creative discussion at Vivid Ideas.
- Guests can also enjoy “Vivid Food” which will sit alongside Light, Music and Ideas.
- Visitors can also enjoy the thrilling 8km Light Walk, stretching from Circular Quay to Central Station.
- Discover the best places to stay and play with our Gay Sydney Guide.
What to Expect
- Light Installations: Iconic buildings and public spaces are illuminated with stunning light displays. Expect colorful projections, interactive installations, and large-scale artworks.
- Music Performances: The festival features performances by local and international artists across various genres in different venues.
- Ideas Exchange: Talks, workshops, and panels on creativity, innovation, and technology take place throughout the festival.
Highlights
- Sydney Opera House: The sails of this iconic structure are transformed with spectacular light projections, making it a must-see highlight.
- Circular Quay: This area hosts numerous light installations and is a great place to start your exploration of the festival.
- The Royal Botanic Garden: Walk through illuminated pathways and experience nature in a new light.
- Barangaroo Reserve: This waterfront park features unique art installations and offers stunning views of the city skyline.
- Vivid Music: Check out live performances at venues like the Sydney Opera House and surrounding bars and clubs.
- Check out the top hotels in downtown Sydney, close to the best gay bars and attractions.
Tips for a Successful Trip
- Plan Your Route: Download the festival map and plan your route to see the key installations without missing out.
- Dress Appropriately: May to June can be chilly in Sydney, so wear layers and comfortable shoes for walking.
- Use Public Transport: Skip the hassle of parking by using trains, ferries, or buses to get around. Special services may be available during the festival.
- Visit Early or Late: To avoid crowds, visit installations early in the evening or later at night.
Recommended hotels in Sydney
The following hotels are close to the Vivid Sydney light installations:
Meriton Suites, Pullman Sydney, Hotel Stellar, Rydges Sydney
Where to stay close to all the gay bars
Book now and pay on arrival.
The 888 boutique is one of the finest
in the city and offers great deals.
For further information and advice on
Vivid Sydney visit The Website
Most of the gay bars are in Oxford street so we have chosen Hotels close to all the gay bars in this area that have high reviews on booking.com
our hotel partner.
Address: 36 College Street, Darlinghurst NSW 2010, Australia
Address: 21 Little Albion Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010, Australia
Address: 28 Albion Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010, Australia
Address: 35-45 Wentworth Avenue, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Address: 16 Flinders Street, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
Address: 68 Darlinghurst Road, Potts Point, NSW 2011, Australia
Address: 117-125 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
Address: 273 Crown Street, Surry Hills, NSW 2010, Australia
Address: Level 1, The Oxford Hotel, 134 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst
Address: 231 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
Address: 280 Cleveland Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010, Australia
Address: 354 Bourke Street, Surry Hills, NSW 2010, Australia
Address: 133 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
Address: 2-4 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
Address: 383 Bourke Street, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
Address: 124 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
Address: 175 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
Address: Take a look at the website for when is on and were.
Address: 134 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australi
Address: 85–91 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
Address: 35 Erskineville Road, Erskineville, NSW 2043, Australia
Address: 265–267 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
Address: 2-4 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
Address: 157 King St, Newtown NSW 2042, Australia
Book with confidence. Get the best Prices from our partner Booking.com
We have chosen hotels in Sydney that keep you close to all the shops,restaurants & bars
Vivid Sydney Higlights
Sydney, has several neighborhoods known for their LGBTQ+ friendliness and vibrant culture. These areas are popular among the LGBTQ+ community and allies, offering a variety of entertainment, nightlife, and cultural experiences.
Next to Darlinghurst, Surry Hills offers trendy cafes, & a bohemian feel. Popular with LGBTQ+ travelers
Known for its alternative culture, street art, quirky shops, live music, and an inclusive vibe its a unique experience.

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