Vivid Sydney is one of the most highly anticipated events of the year, so it’s no surprise that it draws big crowds.

If you’re planning on taking the family, going in a big group or just want some breathing space, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the inspiring installations at Vivid Sydney 2019. One of our top tips is to explore the festival early in the evening and early in the week, especially between Monday and Wednesday.

Here are five lesser-known Vivid Sydney areas that will give you the emotion without the commotion. Each of these areas has enough light art, eats and treats and entertainment for an evening out. Enjoy!

1. The Rocks

Dive into The Rocks and discover its light installations dotted through laneways and projections on the MCA, Cadmans Cottage and the Pixar's 30-years of art and Animation in the Argyle Cut. Snap a selfie at The Rocks Instagram wall that features striking neon artworks of much-loved landmarks then explore the Night Markets where you can shop and dine under the stars.

For the perfect Vivid Sydney panorama, head up to the rooftop of the Glenmore Hotel. The Rocks offers a host of eateries and bars where you can retreat from the crowds and linger longer. Try The Push for a retro-arcade-game inspired experience, The Australian Heritage Hotel for alfresco dining under the shining lights of Vivid Sydney and Starbucks at The Rocks which stays open late during the festival.

2. Darling Harbour

Head to Darling Harbour where you can luxe it up in the Sofitel’s Champagne Bar and Club Millésime that have panoramic views over Darling Harbour and the city skyline, making them ideal vantage points for a birds-eye views of Vivid Light.

Give your taste buds an unforgettable Vivid Sydney experience at the BlackLight Dessert Lab where the team behind Gelato Messina bring together their sweetest friends to create a rotating menu of delectable glow-in-the-dark desserts, with four available each night during the festival. (Free to visit, desserts range from $8-$15 each).

As well as the eco-frinedly mega-bots at Robot SPACELand and the Moon-landing inspired Tumbalong Lights playSPACE presented by Cushman & Wakefield Vivid Sydney's access and inclusion partner. See sharks as you’ve never seen them when On Sharks is projected onto The Sea Museum’s (Australian National Maritime Museum) wave-like roof. Then, discover the new Jellyfish Garden and glow-in-the-dark activities at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium.

3. Barangaroo

Nearby, Barangaroo offers a feast of the senses. Each night during the festival, Exchange Place is transformed into a wondrous Winter Camp inspired by the changing seasons. Meet the glowing giant puppet Marri Dyin (pronounced Mahr-ee Djin), meaning ‘Great Woman’ in Sydney Aboriginal language. From Monday to Wednesday, Marri Dyin sits in still contemplation by the campfire. During Thursday to Sunday evening performances, she invites audiences to join in the practice of hunting and gathering before kneeling down so children can share a magical moment with her.

Before or after exploring the waterfront Winter Camp, sample light-inspired fare from over 40 restaurants, bars and cafes. Think glow-in-the-dark desserts and cocktails that sparkle and change colour. There are delicious options at all price points with front row seats overlooking Barangaroo to ensure everyone is well-fed and entertained.

4. Luna Park

At Luna Park, you’ll feel like you’re inside a kaleidoscope where thrills, spills and lights combine into infinite patterns of colour and light. Coney Island celebrated the Spirit of Fun and street performers in light costumes make ideal selfie buddies. Take a spin on Ferris Wheel illuminated with thousands of LED lights and you’ll have views across the water to Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and the Vivid Light show across the city skyline.

5. Chatswood

Venture further to Chatswood where local and international light artists share the love with installations and projections inspired by peace and harmony. The Concourse architecture is transformed using cutting edge 3D projection mapping art by Hungarian artist collective Limelight. Their projection Coexistence is Inspired by the suburb’s diverse culture and history. At Chatswood Interchange, play the Cascading Harp inspired by Tibetan prayer flags. Explore geometric designs at Light Bazaar, representing the peaceful nature of Islam in modern day Australia. Explore global peace at Listen to the World, a mesmerising six-metre tall heart-shaped sculpture of the world and enjoy many more ingenious installations as well as the fabulous world food offerings while you’re there.