Vivid Sydney 2025 comes to spectacular close

After 23 nights of transforming Sydney into a canvas of light, sound, and imagination, Vivid Sydney 2025 has come to a spectacular close. From 23rd May to 14th June, this year's theme of 'Dream' illuminated some of  Sydney's iconic buildings and landmarks while also awakening the collective imagination of millions of visitors, both locally and abroad. 

While final attendance figures will not be confirmed until post-event analysis is complete, the NSW Government is encouraged by preliminary results – including Sydney’s highest May hotel occupancy rate since 2019 and nightly crowds nearing 200,000 on the festival’s first two Saturdays.

This year, the festival boasted more than 200 events spanning five connected zones: Circular Quay & The Rocks, Barangaroo, Martin Place & CBD (for the first time since 2018), Darling Harbour, and The Goods Line & Inner City. More than 75 per cent of events were free to attend, with the entire Vivid Light Walk open to all. 

NSW Minister for Tourism, Steve Kamper noted “Vivid Sydney captured imaginations and attracted millions of visitors from across Australia and around the globe, reinforcing Sydney’s reputation as a premier destination for cultural events.  

“More than just a light festival, Vivid Sydney creates unforgettable experiences that celebrate our city’s vibrant culture, innovative creative industries, rich culinary scene and thriving night-time economy. It brings Sydney alive after dark, supports thousands of jobs and delivers significant economic benefits to local businesses. Congratulations to everyone involved in making the 15th edition such an outstanding success.”    

Vivid Sydney Festival Director Gill Minervini added “as my final year as Festival Director, this one holds extraordinary meaning for me. Vivid Sydney 2025 has been a celebration of creativity, technology, bold ideas and, above all, human connection.  

“Visitors have responded positively to our reimagined footprint, exploring the festival zones across multiple nights. Sydney once again shone as the perfect canvas, and we thank everyone who came along with all the artists who created the magic.  

“Vivid Sydney proves that when we dream together, we create something truly extraordinary. That's what makes this festival truly special.”   

Motti and Smith Events Director Blake Smith shared “It was a fantastic experience working with Vivid Sydney to curate the food and beverage activations at both Barangaroo Reserve and Tumbalong Park. 

 “The foot traffic was exceptional throughout the festival, and the response to Blacklight Dessert Lab was a real highlight - festivalgoers couldn’t get enough of the glow-in-the-dark desserts!”  

Transport and Tourism Forum Chief Executive Margy Osmond enthused “It’s fantastic to see the roaring success of yet another incredibly curated Vivid Sydney. This festival not only makes Sydney shine, but it’s also a tremendous boost for the visitor economy and plays a huge role in showing off the icons and hidden gems alike.  

“The positive numbers and bumper crowds speak for themselves.”  

Accommodation Australia Chief Executive James Goodwin said "Vivid Sydney and major events like it, are crucial for hotels.  

"Over the last few years Vivid Sydney has turned what are usually a few quiet winter weekends into a boom period, with occupancy rates in Sydney regularly close to 90 per cent, which is a remarkable achievement."

 Service and Creative Skills Australia Chief EXecutive Natalie Turmine added “Vivid Sydney injects millions into the visitor and night-time economy, creating thousands of jobs across arts, retail, tourism, hospitality and event production.  

“With more visitors comes a higher demand for skilled staff in hotels, restaurants, transport and attractions, providing a powerful boost to the state’s workforce. From students gaining their first industry experience to seasoned professionals leading complex productions, Vivid Sydney fuels opportunities at every career stage and drives long-term employment growth.”  

Further data and insights on the festival’s economic and tourism impact will be released in the coming weeks along with expressions of interest and dates for Vivid Sydney 2026.

Images. Credit: Destination NSW