12 Jun 2024

Top 5 Things To Do in The Rocks During Vivid Sydney

The Rocks gets a glow-up this Vivid Sydney, May 24 to June 15. Here’s how to catch all the highlights.

1. The Rocks Markets

Step into a world of wonder at The Rocks Night Markets. As the historic laneways glow with vibrant lights, you'll discover a treasure trove of local artisan wares and mouth-watering eats. From handcrafted jewellery and locally made skincare to unique textiles and aromatic candles, every stall is a new adventure. Satisfy your cravings with crispy gozleme, creamy gelato, and African-inspired BBQ from beloved vendors like Pharaoh BBQ and That's Amore Street Pizza.

2. Light Walk

Embark on a mesmerising journey through The Rocks with the Vivid Sydney Light Walk. From 6pm each night, the area transforms into a spectacular display of light installations and projections celebrating the theme of 'Humanity.' Start at First Fleet Park with "Embrace," an interactive installation inspired by children's paper chains, symbolising the joy of human connection.

Don't miss "Lighting of the Sails: Echo" at the Sydney Opera House, where Julia Gutman's textural work comes alive through dance, music, and puppetry. At the MCA, "Sea, Sand and Stars" by Guan Wei takes you from deep space to Bondi Beach, illustrating the connection between the macro and micro, mystical and the everyday.

"Mutual States" explores the complexity of human emotion through expressive faces, while "Global Rainbow" casts a hopeful spectrum of light from the Sydney Tower Eye. "Our Connected City" brings the entire city to life, with colourful pulses of light traversing the Sydney Harbour Bridge, through The Rocks, and onto the Sydney Opera House forecourt. There’s more to explore so let your curiosity be your guide through it all.

3. Illuminating Flavours

Indulge in special Vivid-themed food and drink offers at The Rocks. Sip on light-up beer towers at Munich Brauhaus, enjoy bespoke cocktails at the Hickson House Cocktail Lab and sip on talisker tipples at The Glenmore as you savour iconic views from their famous rooftop. Each venue offers a unique twist on their menu to celebrate the festival, making your culinary experience as vibrant as the lights.

4. Have a night picnic

As night falls, grab some goodies from The Rocks Markets – maybe mouth-watering pizzas and aromatic paellas accompanied by soul-warming mulled wine -- and head to Dawes Point Park for a Night Picnic Under the Bridge. Snuggle up on comfy rugs and bean bags, warmed by provided toasty heaters, and enjoy breathtaking views. This idyllic spot offers a front-row seat to the Vivid Sydney Harbour lights. As if all that weren’t enough, free live music by local talent tops off an enchanting winter’s evening.

5. Attend a Conscious Connection Event

Connect with like-minded individuals at a Conscious Connection event during Vivid Sydney. These social gatherings are designed to foster meaningful conversations and new friendships over fun games and delicious snacks. Embrace the festival's theme of 'Humanity' through engaging activities that bring people together.
Events include the Games + Connection Night at Frank Mac's on Tuesday 4 June, or at The Glenmore on Wednesday 29 May and 12 June. Each event caters to different age groups, ensuring everyone has a chance to make new friends and enjoy the festivities.
For more details, visit Vivid Sydney in The Rocks.