[category]
[title]
Update, Monday, June 1: In case you missed the news, the rest of Vivid Sydney’s drone shows have been cancelled for this year’s festival, following technical difficulties that saw nearly 90 drones fall from the sky in last week’s performance. Fireworks will replace the drone shows, which were scheduled for 7.30pm and 9.30pm from Sunday to Wednesday nights throughout Vivid (except Sunday, June 7). It was set to be Vivid’s biggest drone show yet.
A statement from the organisers said: “Following Monday night’s unforeseen technical issue at the Vivid Sydney ‘Star-Bound’ drone performance, Vivid Sydney can confirm the remaining drone shows scheduled for this year’s festival will not proceed.
Fireworks displays will now complement the Laser Lightfall experience in Darling Harbour at the times previously scheduled for drone shows, adding another layer of spectacle to Vivid Sydney’s harbour celebrations.
We understand this will be disappointing for audiences and appreciate the public’s understanding. Public safety remains the absolute priority and all decisions have been guided by expert technical and regulatory advice.”
*****
Update: Tuesday, May 26: Vivid’s drone show has been cancelled for now after technical difficulties during Monday night’s performance. Dozens of drones fell into the harbour during the 7.30pm show, with both tonight’s and tomorrow night’s performances cancelled to allow for a “full technical and safety review”.
“Monday’s 7.30pm Vivid Sydney ‘Star-Bound’ drone show was cancelled due to unforeseen technical difficulties at the start of the performance. We apologise for the disappointment and inconvenience caused to attendees,” the spokesperson said.
We’ll keep you updated on whether Sunday night’s show – and the rest! – will go ahead.
*****
After last year’s cancellation, Vivid Sydney’s drone show is back for 2026 – and it’s the largest one yet, with 1,000 drones lighting up the sky across 22 epic shows over 11 nights. The last shows will be held on Wednesday, June 10.
Now in its new home at Darling Harbour’s Cockle Bay – a short walk from Wynyard – the Vivid Sydney drone show, called Star-Bound, will run every Sunday to Wednesday night throughout Vivid (except Sunday, June 7). There’ll be two shows a night at 7.30pm and 9.30pm – both featuring the same spectacular display, so you can pick the time that works best for you and your gang.
RELATED READ: The 8 best things I ate at Sydney’s Vivid Fire Kitchen 2026
Created by Sky Magic, with an original musical score commissioned from one of Australia’s leading composers, Antony Partos – Star-Bound combines light and sound to create a spellbinding show about life, creation, hope and renewal.
Organisers recommend arriving early via public transport to secure your spot, with some of the best viewing areas including Cockle Bay eastern promenade, Cockle Bay southern boardwalk and Palm Grove, Cockle Bay western promenade and Pyrmont Bridge.
Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said: “Sydney Harbour will become a living canvas of light, movement and storytelling, and whether you're bringing the kids for the first time or enjoying a night out with friends, Star-Bound will offer a unique and memorable experience for all.”
And because it’s outdoors, the show may be cancelled if the weather isn’t on our side. C’mon, Vivid weather gods.
Find out more here.
Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, things to do and travel inspo, straight to your inbox.