If you’re in Sydney with your group during Vivid and are totally confused about what to do with them, you’re in the right place. Vivid turns the city into a living canvas of art, light and colour. Everywhere you go there are activities and experiences. The trick is to find out which ones are easy to do together and are actually fun for everyone!
So, here are some of the best group-friendly Vivid Sydney activities to try out:
Harbour Bridge Climb
If your group is up for something adventurous, then the Sydney Harbour Bridge climb is hard to beat! Climbing the bridge during Vivid is a completely different experience compared to the regular days. You get to see the entire city glowing with lights from above.
There are special Vivid Sydney Harbour Bridge Climbs that are designed for groups and are completely guided. You and your group will go up together with plenty of stops along the way to take in the view. It’s a bit of a splurge, but for groups looking to do something memorable, this is one of those “worth it” experiences.
Vivid Sydney Harbour Cruise
If climbing sounds out of your comfort zone, then a cruise on Sydney Harbour is a more relaxed way to enjoy the festival and see the stunning installations.
The harbour turns into a moving light show with boats, ferries and buildings contributing to the display. The Clearview Glass Boat Vivid Sydney cruises are highly recommended as the cruise offers a multi-course dinner and uninterrupted views of the lights without the crowds that you’d normally deal with on land. It’s perfect for groups because you can sit together, take photos, eat, drink and enjoy the ride. It’s simple, doesn’t require much effort, and is hassle-free!
Vivid Long Lunches
Now not everything during Vivid happens after sundown. Long lunches have grown extremely popular in recent years, earning their place in Vivid Foods. They are hosted at restaurants around the city, offering set menus and a nice slow dining experience.
It’s a good break and an excellent excuse to unwind, enjoy good food and company. Vivid long lunches usually happen in precincts like Circular Quay and Darling Harbour, giving you a good view of the installations and artwork.
Tumbalong Nights
If your group enjoys music and a lively atmosphere, you should definitely visit Tumbalong Park. This is where live music, food and people come together to celebrate the soul of Vivid.
There are performances every night throughout the Vivid season with a mix of international and local artists cranking up the energy. It’s very casual, with food stalls and games too. The best part? It’s free, which means you don’t need tickets – making it easy for groups to show up and just have fun! It’s also flexible, allowing people to come and go, which works well if your group splits up and meets again later.
Creative Workshops
For groups that want to try something outside the box, Vivid also hosts a range of creative workshops in Sydney. These can include things like light art sessions, photography classes or more hands-on experiences inspired by the year’s theme.
What makes this an awesome activity for groups is the “shared experience” element. Whether it’s pottery or art workshops, you’re all doing something together instead of just watching something. It’s a great way to bond, especially if your group has diverse interests. You walk away with a new skill and a fun memory instead of the usual sightseeing.
Vivid Sydney isn’t just about the lights; it’s about experiencing the city in a different way. And for groups, it works really well with the variety of activities and experiences. You can mix high-energy activities with relaxed ones or choose whichever fits your group’s vibe. Regardless, it’s a great way to experience the city and enjoy time with your friends, family and colleagues at the same time.
