There is no need to decide between a city break or a beach escape in Sydney as this iconic city offers world-famous beaches and exquisite natural landscapes alongside urban experiences. A visit to Sydney and New South Wales can be made all the more special when visiting during events like Vivid Sydney, Sydney’s New Year’s Eve and the Sydney Marathon. Below, we take a look at why you should incorporate one of these events into your New South Wales itinerary.
Vivid Sydney is an annual celebration which turns the city into an explosion of creativity; the very best artists, thinkers and musicians see Sydney as a canvas upon which to create artistic fusions that are innovative and inspiring. Last year saw over 200 installations and events across the city including captivating 3D light projections, live music and meaningful discussions.
From 26 May to 17 June 2023, Vivid Sydney will push boundaries even further. Vivid Light will feature a Light Walk which stretches some 8.5km — surely one of the best ways to see the city. Sydney’s urban landscape never looks more vibrant than during Vivid Light, when a kaleidoscope of colour turns iconic landmarks into a mirage. For 23 nights, Vivid Music connects Australia’s heritage through acts which celebrate the country’s rich culture and traditions. Vivid Ideas is a celebration of the power of collaboration through discussion. And, last but not least, experience Sydney’s colourful flavours with Vivid Food: a culinary celebration which brings together the best of Australia’s culinary capital.
There are also a number of incredible experiences on offer such Vivid BridgeClimb, Vivid Cruises or Wild Lights at Taronga Zoo! Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge and feel like you’ve conquered this world of light and colour as you get a phenomenal view from one of Sydney’s best vantage points. Or, for another unique perspective, step on board a luxury glass boat or catamaran and take in the sights from the water.
New Year’s Eve is a special time of year, giving us the opportunity to reflect and look ahead. And there is no place better to celebrate the start of the new year than Sydney with its fireworks display. Whether with your group of friends, significant other or family, there are plenty of vantage points to watch the world-famous fireworks and toast the New Year. Observatory Hill is a popular spot with a real community atmosphere. There are a number of other parks and green areas where you can set up a picnic and enjoy the view. Or, for those looking for a more exclusive location to watch the fireworks, you can buy tickets to access one of the small islands around the harbour, spend the evening on a harbour cruise or at the Sydney Opera House.
The Sydney Marathon is one of the most scenic races in the world. It crosses the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House and loops through the lush Centennial Parklands. The Sydney Marathon is the main event and with a 7-hour course cut off, this provides opportunities for runners of all abilities to complete a marathon at their own pace. There are also a number of other courses, for families and young children, a 3.5km race is a great way to get involved in the fun over a short distance. For those who are perhaps not seasoned runners but want to challenge themselves there is a 10 km course. And, before the grand 26 mile/42km marathon, there is a half marathon option to serve as an ideal midway point.
If you do decide to take on the big one, then nothing can match the sense of achievement of crossing the finish line after 26 miles and looking up at the iconic Sydney Opera House!
If you want to visit Sydney and take part in the ultimate challenge, then we have a fantastic Sydney Marathon offer for you!