Such vivid memories of Sydney
One of the events my husband Renato and I eagerly anticipate each year in Sydney is the spectacular light show that takes place after Easter, called “Vivid Sydney.”
This year, our grandkids came along for the adventure, and it turned out to be so much fun. As we strolled through the city center, from Darling Harbour to Circular Quay, we were surrounded by the excitement of Sydneysiders and tourists alike, all buzzing with anticipation—all of us awaiting our turn to take photos in front of the displays.
What is Vivid Sydney?
In 2009, the local government wanted to brighten Sydney’s winter nights and organized a light show, which has blossomed into a global celebration of art, creativity, and community. The festival transforms the city into a vibrant canvas of light.
As we wandered from one mesmerizing light installation to the next, the kids were mesmerized by the stunning projections surrounding us.
The major locations for this year’s displays included Circular Quay, The Rocks, and Darling Harbour, where we marveled at innovative works from talented creators like Tundra, who designed a beautiful light garden, and the local artists from Luxxbox, whose interactive installations invited everyone to engage and play.
Light projections across iconic Sydney Opera House
Created by David McDiarmid for 2025, these projections featured vibrant colors and intricate patterns that captivated us.
Each installation was more enchanting than the last, turning the familiar landscape into a dreamlike world filled with color and creativity.
On another evening, we were invited by Ivan, Renato’s bff in Sydney who works at the Opera House, to catch a performance by Rayven Lanae, whose soulful voice resonated through the crowd.
As the sounds of her music began to fill the theater, the audience started to sing along with her. We have never felt so old. The crowd was mostly Gen Z and Gen Alphas. I found myself eventually dancing during the performance as well. The energy was contagious; everyone around us swayed to the rhythm, completely lost in the magic of the moment.
Two days later, we returned to the festival, this time eager to see Anohni and the Johnsons take the stage. As the lights dimmed and a hush fell over the crowd, the excitement was palpable. Anohni’s presence was both powerful and ethereal, and when she began to sing, her haunting melodies created a connection that filled the air with emotion.
The visuals that accompanied her performance showcased the vibrant underwater life of the Great Barrier Reef, reminding us all of its beauty and fragility.
Anohni’s performance also featured a cinematic portrait of the Great Barrier Reef, highlighting its incredible biodiversity and the dedicated scientists who work tirelessly to study and preserve this natural wonder.
It was a poignant reminder of our oceans’ fragility and the responsibility we share to protect them. Anohni’s lyrics painted vivid pictures of the ocean’s splendor, transforming her concert into a rallying cry for environmental awareness. We all swayed together, united by a sense of responsibility to advocate for the reef’s survival.
Reflecting on our evenings at Vivid Sydney, I realized that this festival was not just about the captivating lights, but also about the unforgettable moments we shared as a family. It was a beautiful blend of art, education, and fun that left a lasting impression on our hearts.
Vivid Sydney had truly transformed the city into a canvas of artistic expression, and sharing an experience with our grandkids made it all the more special.
