OUT AND ABOUT - VIVID SYDNEY

Earlier in the year we made a firm decision to take a trip into the city to experience the sights and sounds of Vivid. This spectacular event had been added to our 2024 bucket list, and we wanted to make a weekend out of it. We booked a charming hotel in The Rocks, one of Sydney's most historic and picturesque areas. This choice allowed us to be right at the doorstep of the festival's main attractions. We were also taking along our granddaughter, who had never before seen VIVID. 

After an easy drive into the city, we arrived at our hotel which was the Rendezvous   After settling in, we ventured out and our goal was to first walk across to the Opera House.  We made our way past the ferries and walked all around to the steps of the Opera house just as the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the city and signaling that the evening’s festivities would soon start.

We had about half an hour to walk back to the hotel to grab winter coats and hats ready for the cold temperatures of the night. We did it in record time and headed back out to find a good vantage point to countdown to 6.00pm and watch the Opera House light up.

As the clock struck 6.00pm the famous sails of the Opera House were transformed into a canvas of dazzling light projections.  From there, we wandered along the Circular Quay, where street performers and musicians added to the lively ambiance. 

The Rocks, with its cobblestone streets and historic buildings, provided a perfect backdrop for some of the festival’s most impressive installations. We explored interactive light sculptures that reacted to touch and movement, creating a playful and immersive experience. 

As we made our way towards the Harbour Bridge, we were treated to a spectacular light show that illuminated the structure in a kaleidoscope of colors. The reflections on the water added an extra layer of colour. 

We took a break and grabbed some dinner in the Orient Hotel, one of Sydney's most iconic pubs, and one of the oldest: serving fine food and drink since 1844. On the ground floor of the Orient, the Public Bar, and the courtyard beer garden are lovely spots to enjoy a nice meal, however, given the temperature and the fact that we had Layla with us we went upstairs to the 'Mrs Jones' dining area and terrace bar named after one of the hotel’s earliest licensees, Jane Jones. We enjoyed a leisurely dinner and then headed back out into the chilly cold night. 

After dinner we took a walk along the myriad of food stalls lining the walkways, offering a variety of culinary delights and refreshing beverages to indulge in as you take in the spectacle. Plus I couldn't resist buying Layal a ginormous Fairy Floss which we ended up sharing. 

After calling it a night around 11.00pm we got up the next morning and decided to grab breakfast at 'Pancakes at the Rocks' Cinnamon and Butter Icing was so yummy, so I highly recommend it. 

Being a lover of markets, one of the highlights was exploring the vibrant Rocks markets and stalls. The atmosphere in The Rocks was buzzing with energy, and we joined the throngs of people weaving through the historic laneways lined with colorful market stalls. From handmade crafts and unique jewelry to artisanal food products and eclectic art pieces, there was something to catch the eye at every turn. I couldn't resist doing a bit of shopping and picking up a few unique gifts.

All in all, it was a lovely weekend, filled with unforgettable experiences and cherished family time. If you haven't been to see Vivid before, it truly is a sight to behold. The festival transforms Sydney into a wonderland of light and art, offering a unique way to explore the city. Vivid show is on every year during May and June.