An illumined trail of giant animal lanterns and captivating light installations is yours to discover at Taronga Zoo Sydney’s Lights for the Wild. As the largest festival of light, music and ideas in the Southern Hemisphere, Vivid Sydney and Taronga Zoo have an incredible experience awaiting Sydney-siders in 2023.
If you’ve never done Vivid at Taronga (or even if you’ve done it every year!), you don’t want to miss this unique opportunity to experience the zoo after dark in 2023. It is a truly magical experience, interwoven with a very powerful message about wildlife conservation and how we can all become a shining light for the wild.
What’s new in 2023?
This year, the Wild Lights experience will once again be elevated with the unveiling of a brand-new night trail with over 130 lanterns and lights, that will take you on a captivating adventure to meet some of your most iconic native species.
This after-dark event will transform Taronga into a wonderland of light and colour and an unforgettable and awe-inspiring experience for guests of all ages.
With a strong focus on caring for Country and driving change, this year’s Wild Lights will debut a variety of new breathtaking lanterns that shine a light on some of the country’s most iconic species and the landscapes they call home. These lanterns have been created by contemporary Aboriginal artist Nathan Peckham of YURANA CREATIVE and is a collaboration between precinct director Nicholas Tory and his technical and creative team at Ample Projects.
How long does the light walk take?
The light walk will take approximately 1 to 1.5 hours at a comfortable pace. The path is clearly marked out and structured, and there are volunteers along the way to keep you on track and answer any questions. Check out these tips on keeping your child safe at Vivid.
If you’ve got a toddler, definitely take the pram! As much as they might like to walk, late nights and tired legs can all get a bit too much, so it’s good to have the option. And even if they don’t go in it much, they’re always handing for storing essentials!
What should you wear?
Go for comfort, not style (or combine the two, if you’re clever like that!). Wear flat shoes and warm clothes – layers are always a good idea.
What about dinner?
The normal food and beverage outlets are open, as well as additional Vivid-only food and beverage pop-ups. These locations will be marked on the Vivid Sydney at Taronga Zoo map which can be collected upon arrival. Otherwise, pack a picnic dinner and eat it along the route!
- Indulge in our special Wild Lights menu featuring winter warming favourites such as loaded corn and jacket potatoes, rainbow fried rice, cheesy chicken tender parmigiana and more.
- Satisfy your sweet tooth with a create-your-own chocolate mousse waffle cone or fairy floss.
- For the grown-ups, enjoy a mulled wine from the Forage & Graze Café at the start of the light walk, or enjoy a beer with dinner at the Taronga Food Market.
What happens if it rains?
The event will proceed rain or shine. If rain is forecast, come prepared with wet weather gear, raincoats and ponchos and something waterproof to sit on in case of rain. But if you get caught unprepared, ponchos and umbrellas can be purchased from the Zoo’s retail outlets.
Can you stay overnight?
In a first for Taronga Zoo, guests to Wild Lights will be able to immerse themselves with an overnight stay at the Wildlife Retreat at Taronga for a truly illuminating and holistic experience. Nestled within the ground of Taronga Zoo on Cammeraygal Country, the Wildlife Retreat at Taronga is a unique eco-retreat that enables guests to build everlasting connections with Australian wildlife.
Is the Zoo an accessible site?
Taronga Zoo is an accessible site, but it does contain some steep slopes and the light walk is no exception. Details.
What’s the best way to get there?
The car park is $9 for guests entering after 4.00pm. For guests entering prior to 4pm, the parking is a flat rate of $22 for the whole day, or free if entering and exiting within 90 minutes. Please note: there is no 90-minute grace period after 4pm.
The Zoo is located 12 minutes from Circular Quay by ferry or a short bus trip from the city or North Sydney. Additional ferry services to Circular Quay and bus services to Spit Junction will be running from the zoo during Vivid. Visit www.transportnsw.info or call 131500 for up-to-date information and timetables, or download the Vivid ferry timetable now.
Tickets
Vivid Sydney at Taronga Zoo is open from Friday 26 May to Saturday 17 June 2023, Wednesday to Sunday evenings with two ticketed entry times at 5.30 pm and 7.30pm. Wild Lights at Taronga Zoo will also be open on the King’s Birthday public holiday, Monday 12 June. Click here to buy tickets.
Prices
- Adults: $30
- Children (4-15 years): $25
- Under 4: Free
But don’t delay! This event is hugely popular and always sells out every year, so get your tickets today to experience Vivid Sydney at Taronga Zoo! Click here for more information or to buy tickets!
