Right now Sydney is awash with colour, allowing you to discover the harbour city in a new light, writes Renata Gortan. The expansive white sails of the Sydney Opera House have been transformed by a kaleidoscope of colour; building facades come alive with 3D light installations and music mingles with the scent of street food. Welcome to Vivid, Sydney’s festival of light, music, ideas and food which transforms the harbour city from late May to mid-June.
What started as a lights festival in 2009 to get people out and about in winter has grown into an event that transforms the city. While you can make like a flaneur and wander all night, you’ll get the most out of Vivid if you have an idea of where you’re going. Anchor your evening with two or three ticketed events and leave the rest of the night open to exploring.
Another rookie mistake is trying to fit it all into one night. The city is split into four main areas: Circular Quay, Darling Square, Barangaroo and the CBD. Each precinct provides a night’s entertainment , but if you want the highlights, follow the Light Walk.
The harbour is the obvious place to start. Sunset is around 5pm, and while most of the installations don’t get going until 6pm, Lightscape at the Royal Botanical Gardens - entrance is via the Sydney Opera House forecourt – starts at 5pm. Head here first to walk through glowing tunnels, under illuminated tree canopies and past giant flowers.
From there, it’s a five-minute walk to the InterContinenta.