Sydney's Taronga Zoo Has Once Again Been Spectacularly Illuminated for Vivid

Once again, the famed grounds of Taronga Zoo will come alive with lights and projections when Vivid Sydney kicks off this Friday, May 24. This year, as part of the after-dark light program that takes over various precincts across Sydney, Taronga's set-up will include four brand new captivating installations.

As the zoo continues its mission to raise awareness and support for endangered species in Australia and Sumatra, this year's Lights for the Wild gives zoo visitors the opportunity wander the harbourside site after dark, encountering everything from multi-coloured elephants to giant redback spiders along the way.

This year's event incorporates four new installations and a heap of returning favourites — including the Sumatran rhino and interactive chameleon. Here's a peek at some of the animalistic magic you can look forward to when you visit.

The light show begins from the moment you hit the zoo's heritage-listed archway. This year, the giant light projection features images representative of the ten fragile species across Australia and Sumatra that the zoo has made a commitment to protect. These include the yellow and black Southern Corroboree frog, the platypus and the Asian elephant.

You'll have the chance to snap a photo alongside three glowing Sumatran tigers, created in celebration of the zoo's brand new cubs: Mawar, Tengah Malam and Pemanah.

See giant redback and funnel-web spiders emerge from the shadows — which remind us a little of Hagrid's dear Aragog — then continue along the Aussie Bush path to meet bilbies, six-metre-long goannas and a saltwater crocodile.

And encounter an enormous multicoloured elephant hanging out among the trees.

A friendly koala rounds out a massive collection of illuminated native fauna, which also includes echidnas (with moving tongues).

Other highlights include an award winning animated projection in a 270-degree cinematic experience, by Taronga Centenary Theatre, and a dazzling laser garden. All proceeds from tickets will go to supporting Taronga's work in conservation and wildlife care.

Vivid Sydney will run from Friday, May 24 until Saturday, June 15, and Taronga Zoo will be open at night from Wednesday to Sunday (and Monday, June 10) throughout the festival. The experience is ticketed — you can buy two-hour tickets to the nightly 5.30pm and 7.30pm sessions here. 

Images: Destination NSW.