Modern Empty Elite Store Front with Big Windows at Night. 3D Rendering

The NSW Government and Destination NSW, which owns and manages the festival, is encouraging businesses in and around key festival locations including Circular Quay, The Rocks, Barangaroo, Darling Harbour and the Sydney CBD to participate in the Vivid Sydney Local Business Program.

Event organisers said joining the festival is a chance to boost trade: “Businesses can access vibrant Vivid shopfront assets including transparent LED screens, window decals and posters, and are encouraged to create their own exciting one-of-a-kind experience.

“The Vivid Sydney Local Business Program is an opportunity for businesses to showcase their Vivid Sydney spirit and entice customers to shop, dine and visit over 23 nights.”

Businesses can apply to join one of three different tiers as part of the Local Business Program. Each provides access to a variety of Vivid Sydney resources to decorate shopfront windows as well as promote their partnership online via the festival’s online assets.

Stuart Ayres, Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney said: “Through revealing the vibrancy of the full Vivid Sydney 2021 program, there is no doubt this much-loved festival will provide everyone with a multitude of reasons to experience Sydney after dark.

“The Vivid Sydney we know and love will be back, from the creativity and innovation to interactivity and excitement. Australians have a huge appetite for adventure, and I encourage everyone around the country and in New Zealand, to start planning their visit to Vivid Sydney now.”

The Sydney light festival will take place between August 6 and 28, with applications to join the Local Business Program closing at 10am, 21 June. Successful applicants will be notified by 5pm on 2 July with next steps.