Neon Playground 2.0

Sydney’s vibrant Neon Playground is back, and this year, it’s bigger, brighter, and more immersive than ever.

A celebration of Sydney’s rich multicultural heritage, Neon Playground 2.0 transforms one of the city’s most iconic precincts into a neon-lit wonderland, showcasing the work of leading Asian-Australian artists, musicians, and performers. With 14 towering light sculptures, exclusive art exhibitions, cultural performances, street food markets and more, visitors can expect an unforgettable sensory experience that blends traditional and contemporary Asian influences.

Whether you’re here to marvel at cutting-edge light installations, dance to live DJ sets, indulge in authentic Asian street food, or explore thought-provoking discussions on Asian-Australian identity, Neon Playground 2.0 offers something for everyone. Wander through glowing laneways, enjoy live entertainment, discover unique pop-up events, and experience Chinatown like never before.

Neon Playground 2.0 Festival Highlights

Chinatown Block Party – Kicking off the festival on March 15, Dixon Street will host an electrifying street party featuring live music and performances from Korean-Australian rap group 1300, rapper Tommy Gunn, pop singer tiffi, CRIMSON dance crew, and more.

Towering Light Sculptures – The heart of the festival features 14 massive light sculptures, standing 4-5 metres tall, showcasing works by acclaimed Asian-Australian artists Chris Yee, Kentaro Yoshida, Pei Kwang, Andrew Yee, and Samuel Kim, in collaboration with world-renowned creative production company Mandylights. The artworks incorporate 80 lightbox illustrations, 1km of neon, and over 100,000 LEDs. Visitors can also watch live mural painting by Sophi Odling and Christina Huynh from March 10-14.

Key Events & Exhibitions

 

• As tragedy as farce – Neon art exhibition by Chinese-Australian artist Chunxiao Qu at the 4A Centre for Contemporary Asian Art (March 15 – April 27).
• Fading Glow – A tribute to Hong Kong’s iconic neon signs at Blank Gallery (March 13 – April 7).
• Chris Nguyen: It’s Pronounced Nguyen – A hilarious stand-up show at Chinatown Comedy Club (March 19).
• Chinatown Idol – A family-friendly karaoke competition at Dynasty Karaoke (April 4).
• Subtitle Cinema Club – Classic Hong Kong and Asian film screenings at the former Marigold Chinese Restaurant with snacks from Thai Kee IGA (March 20, 27 & April 3).
• Sydney LNY Art Market – Showcasing 20 Asian-Australian artists at Haymarket HQ (April 5).
• Panel Discussions – Thought-provoking talks on Asian-Australian representation, Chinatown’s future, and contemporary Asian culture (March 18, 25 & April 1).
• Chinatown Street Food & Stories – A walking tour of Chinatown’s rich food scene and history hosted by Local Sauce Tours (March 19, 26 & April 2).

Food, Glorious Food

Chinatown and Haymarket retailers will join in with exclusive offers and giveaways, including:

• Neon-themed cocktails at Banchō, Sweet Lu, Old Town Hong Kong, and Covent Garden Hotel.
• Free Asahi beer at Kura Kura Japanese with a $20 spend.
• Special dish giveaways at Spice World Hot Pot, Haymarket Fried Skewer, and Good Luck Hot Pot.
• Buy one, get one half-price drinks at Super Emoji.

Experience the Magic of Neon Playground 2.0

From breathtaking light displays to live music, comedy, art, and food, this festival will light up Chinatown in ways you’ve never seen before. Come wander the neon-lit streets, experience the fusion of tradition and contemporary creativity, and be part of one of Sydney’s most exciting cultural celebrations.

For more information and to book tickets to select events, visit Neon Playground 2.0.

Where:   Dixon Street, Haymarket
When:    Saturday 15 March - Sunday 6 March 2025
Cost:      FREE, with some paid events

More Things to Do in Sydney

Our Kid-friendly Guide to Sydney's Inner West
The Best Picnic Spots in Sydney
Sydney's Top FREE Water Play Parks
 

Have you signed up for our newsletter? Join ellaslist to get the best family and kid-friendly events, venues, classes and things to do NEAR YOU!