X|Celerate

Overview

Vivid Sydney's 2018 program isn't only about the CBD light shows and the big name acts performing at the Opera House. This year, the City of Sydney is partnering with Vivid Sydney to fund an extensive list of independent live music shows called X|Celerate. The program will see some of Sydney's favourite local haunts showcase emerging artists with live gigs running from May 26 through June 16 — and the tickets are either dirt cheap or completely free.

The events span from the CBD through to Newtown, Surry Hills, Redfern, Chippendale, Kings Cross, Camperdown and Darlinghurst. With a focus on grassroots acts — from rock, indie and jazz to funk, electronica and experimental, and even reggae and ska — each venue has specifically designed its lineup to bring you the best-of-the-best.

Highlights include the Purple Sneakers 12th birthday party at The Lansdowne, a live tribute to Madonna at Freda's, queer icon Stereogamous' DJ set and aperitivo hour at The Dolphin and a George Harrison tribute band at Leadbelly, plus heaps of shows at Oxford Art Factory, Venue 505, World Bar and Golden Age Cinema. The gigs are all $25 and under and include heaps of free shows, too.

X|Celerate is a partnership between the City of Sydney and Vivid Sydney that aims to enliven independent music venues across town. The program is one outcome of the City of Sydney's Live Music and Performance Action Plan, which has generated $3.2 million in small grants to live music and performing arts in Sydney since 2014.

For more information, including full list of venues and program events, head to the Vivid Sydney X|Celerate website.