Sydney will shine in a kaleidoscope of colour, music and creativity for the next 23 nights after NSW Premier Mike Baird and Minister for Tourism and Major Events Stuart Ayres launched this year’s Vivid Sydney Festival.

“Vivid Sydney has established itself as the world’s largest festival of light, music and ideas and the NSW Government is proud to once again be hosting this event for the eighth time in 2016,” Mr Baird said.

“Sydney becomes a spectacular canvas of light and innovation during Vivid Sydney. It is a creative festival for a global audience and last year attracted a record 1.7 million domestic and international visitors.

“Indigenous art will be showcased at this year’s festival with a beautiful display of Australia’s ancient Songlines to be projected onto the sails of the Sydney Opera House.”

Songlines is an animation inspired by the ancient dreaming tracks that weave across the landscape and skies, featuring the work of six renowned Indigenous artists.

Mr Ayres said Vivid Sydney showcases NSW as a hub of innovation attracting the world’s leading creative minds, lighting artists and musicians.

“For 23 nights, the spotlight will be on Sydney as an incubator for light and creativity, music, engaging conversations and the exchange of new ideas. It’s a story told throughout the year but one that truly resonates during Vivid,” Mr Ayres said.
“This year’s Vivid Sydney is set to be our biggest and best yet as we light new corners of the city including Taronga Zoo and the harbourside of the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney.

“The festival has it all – cathedrals of light, giant illuminated animals and even a laser dragon. It’s a truly unmissable event and we look forward to welcoming visitors from around the world to Sydney for this incredible festival.”

Vivid Sydney is owned, managed and produced by the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency Destination NSW and runs from 27 May to 18 June.

Visit www.vividsydney.com for more information.