Vivid trading hours boost for bars

by Andy Young May 21, 2025

The NSW Government has confirmed that hospitality venues across inner Sydney will be able to trade later during this year’s Vivid Sydney festival, with hours extended for trading across three Sunday nights.

From 25 May to 8 June, eligible hotels, bars, clubs, restaurants, breweries and live music and performance venues in key precincts in and around the CBD can stay open until midnight on Sundays.

The Minns Labor Government said it is partnering with more than 400 businesses as part of the 2025 Vivid Sydney Local Business Program, to help enrich the global cultural festival that draws millions to Sydney and boosts the state’s visitor and night-time economies.

Co-founder of Hickson House Distilling Co, Mikey Enright said: “Being part of the Vivid Sydney Local Business Program gives us an incredible platform to showcase Hickson House and our bespoke Vivid Sydney-inspired events to a wider audience.

“It drives foot traffic, creates a vibrant atmosphere around The Rocks precinct and supports local businesses like ours in a meaningful way.”

Minister for Jobs and Tourism, Steve Kamper added: “Between the lights, the music, the ideas and the food, Vivid Sydney is more than just a visual experience – it’s an opportunity to celebrate our city.

“Whether it’s kayaking across Sydney Harbour under the lights or joining a neon-lit running tour through the streets, these experiences encourage visitors to stay out longer, explore more and support our vibrant night-time economy.

“Programs like this are key to our vision of cementing Sydney as the premier destination in the Asia-Pacific for world-class events and unforgettable visitor experiences after dark.”

The extensions support Vivid Sydney’s enduring popularity and give festival goers more time to enjoy the event, while boosting trade for local businesses.

The initiative is part of the NSW Government’s Special Event Extended Trading program, which allows venues to stay open later during major cultural and sporting events.

Details on venue eligibility for extended trading hours is available through the Liquor & Gaming NSW website.

Andy Young is an experienced journalist and editor having made a start as a sports journalist with The Sun newspaper in the UK. Since then he’s worked in major newspaper and television...