Vivid Sydney has been recognised with 21 awards at the 2026 International Festivals & Events Association (IFEA) Pinnacle Awards, including 12 Gold, six Silver and three Bronze awards.

Winners were announced on 5 October 2026, during the 71st Annual IFEA Convention & Expo in Arizona, United States.

The Pinnacle Awards recognise outstanding accomplishments by festivals and events around the world and are regarded as the gold standard of achievement for the global festivals and events industry.

The awards recognise excellence across almost every aspect of festival delivery, including marketing, sponsorship, accessibility, volunteer programs, operations and risk management.

Vivid Sydney was also awarded Bronze in the prestigious Grand Pinnacle category, recognising overall excellence in festival and event delivery.

IFEA President and CEO Steven Wood Schmade said: “The IFEA/Haas & Wilkerson Pinnacle Awards provide an important opportunity to recognize and celebrate the extraordinary work being done by festival and event professionals around the world.

“Every year, the entries showcase the creativity, innovation, resourcefulness and dedication that define our industry. By sharing and recognising this outstanding work, the Pinnacle Awards also provide inspiration, ideas and best practices that can benefit festivals and events of every size, budget and location.”

Vivid Sydney 2026 delivered a strong program across the city, featuring 217 events and more than 2200 sessions across 89 locations.

Vivid Sydney 2027 will take place from Friday 28 May to Saturday 19 June, with the program shifting slightly from previous years to better align with the timing of the June public holiday.

Award results

Gold Awards

  • Best TV Promotion
  • Best Multimedia Component (Go Beyond Vivid Sydney)
  • Best Digital/Social Ad Series
  • Best Printed Materials (Multiple Page)
  • Best Promotional Poster
  • Best Outdoor Billboard / Signage
  • Best On-Site Décor (Lighted Arches/Walkways)
  • Best Sponsor Activation (Foodbank NSW & ACT – Foodbank Truck Packer)
  • Best Accessibility Program
  • Best Overall Entertainment Program
  • Best Nighttime Economy Event
  • Best Overall Media Relations Campaign

Silver Awards

  • Best Event / Organization E-Newsletter
  • Best Promotional Photograph
  • Best Installation / Wrap
  • Best Street Banner
  • Best Overall Sponsorship Program
  • Best Volunteer Program

Bronze Awards

  • Grand Pinnacle
  • Best Event Program / Guide
  • Best Emergency Preparedness & Risk Management Plan

Learn more about the Pinnacle Awards here.