22 May - Accessibility at Vivid 2026

We read Vivid's accessibility guide for 2026. Here are the key features they promote for making their event accessible to everyone.

Sydney's Vivid light festival is traditionally known for being a busy, highly visual experience held at night. If you are living with low vision, this may make Vivid more challenging to navigate. But Vivid advertises its 2026 show as designed to be accessible and enjoyable for all, with a program including not only light exhibits, but music, minds, and food.

Here are some of the key accessibility features and tips from Vivid's accessibility guide.

1. Plan your travel around peak periods and know how traffic conditions and public transport will change. Peak periods for Vivid are usually from 7 pm to 10 pm, Sunday to Wednesday, around the Drone Shows. Leave early to avoid big crowds and allow time to find a good viewing spot.
2. Locate accessible viewing areas. Vivid has dedicated accessible viewing areas for different attractions across the festival, which provide less obstructed views in a calmer environment, marked on their Accessibility Map. If you are attending a Drone Show, you will need to book an accessible ticket at no extra cost to serve your seat.
3. Go beyond the lights. Vivid offers a rich range of experiences drawing on senses other than vision. Try attending a music performance, listening to a professional speaker, or enjoy fine dining with a celebrity chef. This year, Vivid is hosting many of these events during the day, which could be a good alternative if you experience reduced night vision.
4. Listen to the Light Walk using audio description. Audio description is available for each installation along the Vivid Light Walk, providing expertly written narration which brings the exhibit to life. You can access audio description on the Vivid website or by scanning the QR code next to each exhibit.
5. Advocate for yourself. Vivid volunteers will be stationed around the city for the entirety of the festival, identifiable by their bright pink jackets. If you require additional support, don’t hesitate to ask for it.

For more information about accessibility at Vivid 2026, and access their Accessibility Itinerary, Accessibility Map, and audio description, visit Vivid's access and inclusion page.