Vivid Sydney 2023 – A Flashback

An ensemble of a talented Australian cast aboard a Showboat Vivid Sydney cruise.
Showboat’s iconic ‘Voyage of Love’ cabaret show

From dazzling light installations to spectacular music performances, Vivid Sydney 2023 offered a feast for the senses from 26th May to June 17th. As one of the most anticipated events in Sydney's cultural calendar, this year’s festival brought together artists, musicians, and creators from all over the world to showcase their talent and transform the city into a breathtaking wonderland.

As night fell, the city sparkled to life, enchanting visitors with a breathtaking display of lights, music, ideas and food that ignited every sense. With so much to see and do, it was no easy task for locals and tourists alike to pick their favourites! Let’s take a stroll down the memory lane and revisit some of the brightest moments from Vivid Sydney 2023.

Vivid Lights - Luminous Light Installations

Once again, Vivid Sydney worked its magic! This year too the festival transformed the ’Harbour City’ into a breathtaking dreamscape, bringing its most iconic attractions to life with incredible art. The Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge became grand canvases for mesmerising light projections, showcasing stories that sparked the imagination and filled onlookers with wonder.

The biggest drone show in the Southern Hemisphere – “Written in the Stars'' took everyone on a magical journey of stars and constellations. This spellbinding event featured over 1,000 drones across six breathtaking shows that lit up the night sky over Circular Quay.

One of the ideal vantage points to view these mesmerising spectacles is, of course, a Vivid Sydney cruise.

A Vivid Sydney Cruise -The Ideal Vantage Point

For prime views of the Vivid Lights, nothing quite beats a Vivid Sydney cruise.

As always, Sydney Showboats pulled out all the stops to give our guests an unforgettable Vivid Sydney experience. Aboard our charming paddlewheeler with its grand theatre-dining saloon, cathedral windows, and wrap-around verandahs, guests enjoyed the best views of the spectacularVivid Lights on the harbour. And as if the stunning views weren't enough, guests were treated to our iconic cabaret show, the ‘Voyage of Love’ — the perfect match for the festival's vibrant spirit!

While soaking in the breathtaking views, guests indulged in a deluxe 3-course meal or sipped their favourite drinks from the licensed bar. A Showboat Vivid cruise was truly a must-do for anyone looking to soak up the magic of Vivid Sydney!

Vivid Music - Captivating Music And Performances

Everyone knows, Vivid Sydney isn't just about visual spectacles; it's a celebration of music and live performances too! People grooved to the beats of talented musicians and enjoyed some great concerts. Whether you're a fan of jazz, rock, or electronic music, the festival's diverse lineup had something to offer for everyone.

Highlights included-

  • DJs at the Good Line
  • Trevor Ashley/Vivid Sydney Supper Club
  • Cornelius + Nice Biscuit/ Tumbalong Nights

Vivid Ideas - Innovative Ideas And Talks

Vivid Ideas, an integral pillar of the festival, had invited visionaries, thought leaders, and creative minds from various fields to share their revolutionary ideas and insights. People engaged in intellectual conversations, gained fresh perspectives, and immersed themselves in a world of innovation and possibility.

The ‘Vivid Ideas Exchange’ curated 22 events for this year's festival theme – 'Vivid Sydney, Naturally', which aimed at challenging and questioning the conventional understanding of what was considered 'natural'. The diverse range of topics spanned from mental-well being to sexuality, from alterations to the human body to exploring alternative lifestyles and desires.

Highlights included –

  • How To Grow Well And Try Not to Die
  • Storytelling - It’s in our Nature
  • Monogamy - The Natural Way to Love?

Vivid Food - Delightful Culinary Experiences

With the introduction of the new pillar – Vivid Food, Vivid Sydney went on a culinary adventure with a delightful range of food and beverage options. From gourmet food markets that served delectable street food to pop-up bars that offered innovative cocktails, the festival provided the perfect opportunity to treat your palate while soaking in the festive atmosphere.

Highlights included –

  • Light Up Your Senses at The Pylon
  • The Taste and Sound of Sydney
  • Play with Your Dinner

Vivid Sydney 2023 was all about embracing the extraordinary. With its glowing landscapes, pulse-pounding music, artistic wonders, and vibrant culinary treats, the festival created a world of unforgettable experiences. Creativity knew no bounds, and neither did the fun!

For latest deals, offers & updates, follow us on: