Light Up the Cross

Overview

It's been a decade since lockouts and lockdowns dimmed the glittering lights of King's Cross. Once the epicentre of Sydney nightlife, the 2014 O'Farrell lockout laws, introduced to lower violent crime in The Cross, smothered much of the after-dark culture of the area, driving many businesses to close. The double-whammy of the pandemic lockdowns further compounded The Cross' decline, earning Sydney a reputation for having the nation's worst late-night offering. However, with the lockout laws repealed and the pandemic a distant memory, this resurgent precinct is ready to take back its nightlife crown. 

Starting November 1, more than 30 King's Cross venues — including Piccolo Bar, Teddy, Mirage KX and Pelicano — will be joining forces to revitalise King's Cross with the Light Up The Cross campaign. Through a series of electrifying events, nostalgia-infused experiences and exclusive after-dark offerings, local venues will summon the spirit of The Cross' glory days while ushering in a bright, new era.

At the heart of this campaign are local owners and operators, invested in the future success of The Cross. "We're excited to be part of this incredible initiative and can't wait to see The Cross come alive again. It's amazing to see local venue owners come together to reignite this iconic part of Sydney," said Rosie O'Shea, owner of Arms Length on Kellett Street. 

As you venture through the vibrant street of the precinct, keep an eye out for neon signs marking the participating venues. Each is offering a unique glimpse of The Cross's storied history and its rich cultural diversity. Kings Cross visitors can look forward to $12 food and drink deals along with a variety of special offers from participating venues. 

At Chula, immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of Dia de los Muertos with a special glow-in-the-dark drink and snack menu featuring a Lights On pomegranate paloma ($16) and a zesty tonic-cured prawn ceviche tostada ($12). At Arms Length, Sip on a glow-in-the-dark Luminous Lagoon blue margarita ($12) with a side serving of drag queen entertainment. And don't forget to check out Grove Bar's Dark Energy DJ party every Friday and Drag in the Dark series - 'Show me the light' every Saturday. On Bayswater Road, Penny's is serving up its own cocktail homage: the Rough Around the Edges, a sweet yet smoky mingle of scotch, ginger syrup, brown sugar and bitters, inspired by the salacious Kings Cross of old and its softer present.

At basement cocktail lounge and cabaret bar Dulcie's on Darlinghurst Road, guests can let fate decide their order with $18 drink raffle tickets for one of a quartet of hypercolour 80s-inspired cocktails. The Potts Point Hotel is also mixing up some neon-hued cocktails — the NeonTini and the Tiki Tonik. Inspired by the dazzling lights that used to light up The Cross, they are available for $18.

Light Up The Cross" isn't nostalgia bait, but a promising revitalisation of community spirit within the precinct. "Kings Cross has always been a place of vibrant energy, creativity, and inclusivity. We're thrilled to bring that spirit back and welcome everyone to experience the Cross in a whole new light," said Nathaniel Bourke, Strategic Director of the Kings Cross Quarter team. "This revival isn't just about the venues – it's about the growth in the precinct over the last few years, rekindling the community, and celebrating the history and culture that make Kings Cross unique."

For a full list of participating venues, head to the Light Up The Cross website.