Vivid show set to light up Sydney

Vivid Sydney is about to officially launch, setting the city aglow with spectacular light displays and offering audiences cutting-edge performances.

Supplied image of coloured lights projected onto the Sydney Harbour Bridge, as part of the Vivid Festival (AAP) Source: AAP

Record crowds are expected at the Vivid Sydney light show extravaganza on Friday night when the switch is flicked on.

The festival of lights, music and ideas runs for 18 nights and will feature more than 60 works as well as musical performances and special talks, including a Q&A with Mad Men creator Matthew Weiner.

More than 1.4 million people are expected to attend the festival this year to witness installations such as Paint the Town, Piano Stairs and Light Origami.

Outside the city centre, the north shore suburb of Chatswood is a welcome addition this year, and will have an underwater theme.

Central Park is another new location that will lit up.

The festival is expected to provide a $43 million boost to the local economy and surpass last year's figure of 30,000 international visitors.