Neon Playground 2.0 is set to take over Haymarket from 15 March to 6 April, transforming the precinct into an immersive spectacle of neon lights, live entertainment, and cultural experiences. With a packed program featuring contemporary art, music, comedy, and food, this festival is a love letter to Asian-Australian creativity and community.
The festivities kick off with a high-energy Chinatown Block Party on Dixon Street. Running from 5-10pm, expect an electrifying lineup of Asian-Australian talent, headlined by Korean-Australian rap group 1300. Joining them are Hong Kong-Australian rapper Tommy Gunn, Taiwanese-Australian pop singer tiffi, the CRIMSON dance crew, and more.
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A centrepiece of Neon Playground 2.0 is its towering light sculptures -14 monumental installations standing 4 to 5 metres tall, featuring the works of leading Asian-Australian artists. Names like Chris Yee, Kentaro Yoshida, Pei Kwang, Andrew Yee, and Samuel Kim are behind these illuminated masterpieces, produced in collaboration with creative powerhouse Mandylights.
Adding to the spectacle, two of these massive towers will be live-painted on-site by muralists Sophi Odling and Christina Huynh from 10-14 March, offering festival-goers a behind-the-scenes look at their creative process.
A Festival of Art, Food, and Culture
Beyond the neon glow, the festival is packed with experiences that blend tradition with contemporary culture. Expect everything from art exhibitions and panel discussions to a comedy show that takes a humorous dive into Asian-Australian identity. Highlights include:
- ‘As tragedy as farce’: Chinese-Australian artist Chunxiao Qu’s debut Sydney solo exhibition at 4A Centre for Contemporary Asian Art.
- ‘Fading Glow’: A group show at Blank Gallery paying homage to Hong Kong’s iconic neon signs.
- ‘It’s Pronounced Nguyen’: A stand-up show by comedian Chris Nguyen at Chinatown Comedy Club.
- Chinatown Idol: A karaoke showdown at Dynasty Karaoke for those ready to belt out their favourite tunes.
- Subtitle Cinema Club: Classic Asian films screened at the former Marigold Chinese Restaurant, complete with local snacks.
- Sydney LNY Art Market: A showcase of 20 Asian-Australian artists at Haymarket HQ.
- Chinatown Street Food and Stories: A walking tour blending history, food, and insider tips on the best eats in Chinatown.
Eat and Drink at Neon Playground 2.0
No Chinatown festival would be complete without delicious food. Haymarket’s top eateries and bars are joining in with exclusive offers, including specialty neon cocktails at Banchō, Sweet Lu, and Covent Garden Hotel. There’s also a free Asahi with your meal at Kura Kura Japanese and complimentary hot pot delights at Spice World and Good Luck Hot Pot. If skewers are your thing, Haymarket Fried Skewer has freebies on offer with minimum spends.
For more information here or follow @NeonPlayground