Badu Gili
Daily sails lighting returning early 2021
Notice
Updated 30 December 2020
In response to the NSW government’s restrictions on public gatherings, we regret to advise that the spectacular nightly Badu Gili sails projections has been cancelled and will return in early 2021.
Thank you for your ongoing understanding and support.
Badu Gili - meaning 'water light' in the language of the traditional owners of Bennelong Point, the Gadigal people - is a free daily experience that explores ancient First Nations stories in a spectacular seven-minute projection. The projections will illuminate the Opera House’s eastern Bennelong sail at sunset, 9pm, 9.15pm, 9.30pm and 10pm*.
Chapter 1: Sunset, 9.15pm and 10pm
Chapter 2: 9pm and 9.30pm
Best viewed from the top of the Monumental Steps.
Keeping you safe
- The Sydney Opera House is registered as a COVID Safe business with the NSW Government.
- We strongly recommend that patrons over the age of 12 wear a face mask when 1.5 metre physical distancing cannot be maintained. We request that you and your guests bring your own face masks.
- As you move around the Opera House, practise physical distancing (1.5 metres wherever possible) and follow the guidance provided by our staff and signage.
- There are new COVID-specific conditions of entry for people visiting the Opera House. This includes the circumstances under which you must not attend the Opera House, and what’s required of you when you visit. Please read about them here.
Celebrating First Nations culture
A celebration of the rich history and contemporary vibrancy of Australia’s First Nations culture, Badu Gili continues the traditions of Bennelong Point, formerly known as Tubowgule ('where the knowledge waters meet'), a gathering place for community, ceremony and storytelling for thousands of years.
An important pillar of the Opera House’s year-round First Nations program, Badu Gili is an essential Sydney cultural experience for both visitors and the local community that aims to foster and celebrate a shared sense of belonging for all Australians.
View the Sydney Opera House Reconciliation Action Plan
Badu Gili has been enabled by the Opera House, its Idealist donors and the Australia Council for the Arts.
The story of Badu Gili
Meet the Indigenous artists bringing First Nations cultures to the world.
Meet the Badu Gili Artists


Where to Eat and Drink before and after Badu Gili
Satisfy your hunger at one of the many restaurants and bars here at the Opera House. Start your evening at Bennelong Restaurant enjoying their Badu Gili mocktail and a shared plate or two from the Cured and Cultured menu.
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