The switch has been flicked for Sydney’s annual Vivid Festival, marking the start of three weeks of lit-up visual displays, music, ideas and food.

Vivid Sydney 2023 features more than 300 events, including dazzling art displays, 3D light projections and live performances.

The event this year focuses on connecting with nature and includes the launch of Vivid Food, which features pop-up eateries and four international chefs at work in city restaurants.

There is also the Vivid Sydney Light Walk that stretches 8.5km from the Opera House to Central Station, with 57 free light art installations and three-dimensional projections featuring 32 NSW-based artists.

Vivid Music boasts a contemporary music program featuring 67 gigs and concerts at 14 venues from local and international acts.

US actress Jennifer Coolidge and English author Jeanette Winterson are two of the high-profile celebrities in Sydney for the event.

NSW Premier Chris Minns urged Sydneysiders to attend.

“Over the next few weeks. It’s a wonderful opportunity to get out even in the cold weather and see this beautiful city at its absolute best,” Mr Minns said on Friday.

Road closures will be in place in the CBD from 5pm, with people urged to leave the car at home and use public transport.

Vivid runs until June 17.

-AAP