About Vivid Sydney
Vivid Sydney is Australia's largest festival of Light, Music, and Ideas. The 2025 edition, themed "Dream", transformed Sydney's cityscape with immersive 3D light projections, stunning installations, live music, public talks, and culinary experiences.
The festival ran from May 23 to June 14, 2025, illuminating iconic precincts including Circular Quay, The Rocks, Barangaroo, and Darling Harbour—with the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge serving as spectacular canvases for the light art.
My Role
Date: 28 May 2025 Hours: 6 hours Location: Circular Quay, near Sydney Opera House
I volunteered through Casual Hands, the official volunteer coordination partner for Vivid Sydney. My role involved assisting festival-goers with information, directions, and ensuring everyone had a smooth and enjoyable experience.
What I Did
- Provided information to visitors about light installations, accessible viewing areas, and public facilities
- Helped guests navigate Circular Quay and directed them to key attractions
- Assisted with crowd management during peak hours
- Answered questions about transport options, event schedules, and general directions
- Represented Vivid Sydney as a friendly, welcoming presence
The Experience
It was a beautiful and unforgettable night. The colors from the light installations reflecting off the harbour, the Opera House lit up in vibrant projections—Sydney was transformed into a living artwork.
It was freezing cold, but the team spirit kept us going. Our team leader was exceptional—always checking on us and even providing food to keep everyone energized through the long shift.
There's something magical about being part of an event that brings so much joy to hundreds of thousands of visitors. Seeing families, tourists, and locals all gathering together, mesmerized by the lights, made every moment worthwhile.
Skills Developed
- Communication with diverse, international audiences
- Problem-solving under pressure in large crowd scenarios
- Teamwork in cold, fast-paced outdoor environments
- Visitor engagement and hospitality
- Event operations experience at a world-class festival
Contact & Organization
Volunteer Coordinator: Casual Hands Email: volunteer@casualhands.com.au
One-time Event: Vivid Sydney 2025 – 28 May 2025
