Sydney is set to light up the winter night sky as the city transforms into a wonderland of sculptures, light installations and bright ideas for the annual Vivid festival later this month.
Now in its ninth year and running over 23 consecutive nights from May 26, the world renowned-festival sees the city flick the switch to reveal its most famous features in new and breathtaking ways.
Among the destinations to be illuminated in stunning style is Darling Harbour, with George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill in prime position to watch the spectacle unfold. So here is the lowdown on Vivid 2017 and some of the amazing experiences on offer…
Shedding light on Vivid
Combining light installations with music events and ideas exchange forums, Vivid is the largest event of its kind in the world and takes place at precincts across the city, including Darling Harbour.
The annual festival sees thousands of people exploring Sydney by night to witness the wonder of the city at its best and brightest. Each evening, from 6pm until 11pm, the city’s best known features are transformed into art canvases courtesy of light installations, image projections and interactive media displays.
Artists are engaged from around Australia and the world to design unique lighting displays that transform buildings, gardens and famous features into the world’s largest outdoor art gallery.
Vivid locations
Vivid takes place across Sydney with precincts including Darling Harbour, Martin Place, The Opera House, The Rocks, Chatswood, Barangaroo, Taronga Zoo and The Royal Botanic Gardens. Each site offers unique displays, and breathtaking light spectacles.
Vivid Darling Harbour
This year Darling Harbour will take centre stage with the Magicians of the Mist display. Celebrating the power of creativity and innovation, the event combines huge light projections, fireworks, lasers, balls of flame, searchlights, music, and a giant fountain pumping 28 tonnes of water into the air every minute.
Meanwhile, the majestic rooftop of the National Maritime Museum will form the canvas for the Inspired by the Sea projection, evoking the sea’s majesty and mystery.
The Fred Hollows Foundation will also provide a unique insight into Vivid and vision with the interactive Gift of Sight tour. Visitors will be armed with a special flashlight allowing them to discover incredible artworks painted in invisible UV ink.
A vivid history
The Vivid Festival began in 2009 as a Smart light festival with images being projected onto the Sydney Opera House. Over the years it has grown to incorporate additional areas, music and ideas forums, attracting over 2.3 million over 23 nights in 2016.
Take in the sights at George’s
George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill will be open throughout the Vivid Festival, welcoming in weary sightseers for Mezze and drinks, or providing a hospitable base to enjoy dinner while witnessing the wonders of Vivid from the comfort of our Darling Harbour dining venue.
George’s is conveniently located on the Promenade at King’s Wharf, providing easy access and viewing to the spectacular sights of Vivid.
You can view our menu or make a reservation here, or see the Vivid website for all the details and locations for the event, including advice on transport.