Countdown begins for Vivid Sydney festival of light

The countdown has begun for the world's largest light, music and ideas festival, Vivid Sydney.

The 23-night extravaganza kicks off on May 27 in the Australian city of Sydney and will feature more than 80 light installations, 1,500 hours of programmed music and 170 creative events.

New South Wales (NSW) state tourism minister Stuart Ayres said in a note on Friday the festival is the biggest major event NSW state puts on all year.

"For the first time, the world of Australian indigenous art will be celebrated on the Sydney Opera House sails, installations will illuminate the Royal Botanic Garden and Taronga Zoo, while our first indoor venue, The Galeries on George Street will also join the festival," Ayres said.

"We also have two world-firsts at Darling Harbour with the Vivid Laser-Dragon Water-Theatre's 13-meter robotic arm, and Intel's 'Eyes on the Harbour' Real Sense water theatre face projection."

Destination NSW chief executive Sandra Chipchase said it would also be the longest Vivid yet.

"Vivid Sydney's world-class line up has something to inspire and entertain everyone, from families wanting a night out to visitors looking for new ways to explore the city after dark," Chipchase said.

"At the same time, music lovers and those seeking to ignite their creative juices through thought-provoking discussions and creative collaborations will find inspiration at Vivid."

The work of 30 Chinese artisans will also be showcased at Sydney's Taronga Zoo for the festival.

The artisans from the city of Zigong in China's Sichuan Province worked hard to construct 43 animal shaped lanterns for the festival.