Vivid Sydney 2023 features more than 300 events, including dazzling art displays, 3D light projections and live performances.
The event this year focuses on connecting with nature and includes the launch of Vivid Food, which features pop-up eateries and four international chefs at work in city restaurants.
There is also the Vivid Sydney Light Walk that stretches 8.5km from the Opera House to Central Station, with 57 free light art installations and three-dimensional projections featuring 32 NSW-based artists.
For the first time, entering the Royal Botanic Gardens won't be free with adult tickets for internationally acclaimed multi-sensory Lightscape going for $44.
Vivid Music boasts a contemporary music program featuring 67 gigs and concerts at 14 venues from local and international acts.
US actress Jennifer Coolidge and English author Jeanette Winterson are two of the high-profile celebrities in Sydney for the event.
NSW Premier Chris Minns urged Sydneysiders to brave the cold and get to the festival to "see the best city in the world put on a show".
"Over the next few weeks. It's a wonderful opportunity to get out even in the cold weather and see this beautiful city at its absolute best," Mr Minns said on Friday.
"The live show that's going to be up in operation over the harbour over that period of time is going to be beamed around the world, but you want to see it firsthand."
Road closures will be in place in the CBD from 5pm, with people urged to leave the car at home and use public transport.
Vivid organisers say the festival, now in its 13th year, activates new parts of the city and features more diverse talent across more industries than ever before.
It runs until June 17.
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