Vivid Sydney is returning bigger and bolder in 2023, dishing up its most intriguing and opulent program yet. Returning from Friday 26 May until Saturday 17 June, this year's program is inspired by the master of all creators: mother nature.

Sponsored by charity partner World Wildlife Fund Australia, the program is set to centre on the theme of 'Vivid Sydney, Naturally' across all 300+ activations and events over their 23-day city-wide program.

What's new on this year's program?

Vivid is expanding its gastronomic offerings with its first-ever food program, featuring fire pit kitchens, fine dining experiences and the return of last year's sell-out Vivid Sydney Dinner at the Ivy ballroom.

Sydney will also play host to a myriad of local and international musicians like Flying Lotus, Thundercat, José González, Weyes Blood and Yaeji. There'll be some special one-off performances too, like homegrown jazz and funk bank Hiatus Kaiyote and New York City-based Dev Hynes who are both slated to play shows backed by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra at Concert Hall.

The Vivid Music program will spotlight First Nations and Australian voices this year, with a special tribute to the late Archie Roach AC.

What's returning for another year?

This year's program will see the return of Vivid Sydney Light Walk's signature Sydney Opera House Lighting of the Sails, which is set to include 50 light installations, 3D projection artworks and a special tribute to the illustrious 60-year career of Australian landscape artist John Olsen.

We'll see the return of Vivid's Ideas Exchange, spotlighting British author Jeanette Winterson, while drag extraordinaire Trevor Ashley is set to transform Mary's Underground into an intimate cabaret lounge once again for Vivid's Supper Club on Friday and Saturday nights.

When do tickets go on sale?

Tickets for this year's program will go on sale later this week on the Vivid Sydney website, so we suggest you clear your calendars early.