▷ New Year’s Eve fireworks in Australia: Where To Watch The Celebrations In The Sky This January 1st, 2025
Explore Australia’s most spectacular destinations to enjoy New Year’s Eve fireworks. From the vibrant lights of Sydney to the breathtaking sights in Melbourne, Brisbane and more, discover the best places to celebrate in style and welcome the new year under a dazzling sky.
Australia offers one of the most spectacular New Year’s Eve celebrations in the world, with Sydney leading as the iconic hub for fireworks. Sydney Harbour becomes a dazzling stage where the night sky bursts with colors, reflecting beautifully over the water. For a front-row experience, spots like the Sydney Opera House and Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair are popular. Families often enjoy the early 9 PM show, while midnight fireworks enthrall millions worldwide. The festive atmosphere, combined with warm summer weather, makes Australia a prime destination for year-end celebrations.
Beyond Sydney, other cities like Melbourne and Brisbane also host impressive fireworks displays. Melbourne’s Federation Square and the Yarra River are packed with revelers soaking up the electrifying vibe. In Brisbane, South Bank Parklands offers a family-friendly environment with excellent views of the riverfront pyrotechnics. Each city showcases its unique take on welcoming the New Year, blending local culture with universal joy. No matter where you are in Australia, the fireworks ensure an unforgettable night.
Planning is key to making the most of this iconic celebration. Arrive early to secure the best viewing spots, as popular areas fill up quickly. Many events offer ticketed sections with added comfort, such as seating and exclusive amenities. Public transport operates extended hours, making it convenient to navigate the bustling cities. For those seeking a more relaxed vibe, rooftop bars and waterfront restaurants provide premium vantage points. Wherever you choose to watch, Australia’s New Year’s Eve fireworks promise a spectacular start to the year ahead.
More than a million people will be making their way into the city and surrounds for the celebrations. A little organisation can make a night to remember. | Photo by sydneynewyearseve.com
Why Australia is the Best Destination for NYE Fireworks
New Year’s Eve in Australia is one of the most dazzling celebrations of the year, with breathtaking fireworks displays throughout the country. Whether you’re enjoying the festivities with family and friends or on a solo adventure, Australia is the ideal destination to welcome the new year with an unforgettable spectacle. So if you are wondering which city has the best NYE fireworks in Australia, it will depend where you live and your budget.
Top Spots to Watch the New Year’s Eve Fireworks in Sydney
Sydney’s New Year’s Eve fireworks are among the most renowned worldwide, illuminating landmarks like the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. Prime viewing locations include:
Barangaroo Reserve: Offers panoramic views of the fireworks and Sydney Harbour Bridge. No tickets required. Opens at 12:00pm, so it’s recommended to arrive early (specially before 7pm) to secure a spot. Alcohol for sale / no BYO.
Birchgrove Park: No tickets required. Opens at 8:00am. Alcohol BYO is allowed.
Blues Point: No tickets required. Opens at 9:00am. Alcohol is prohibited.
Bradfield Park & Mary Booth Reserve: Located in Milsons Point, this area provides excellent views of the Harbour Bridge. The site opens at 9:30am, so arriving early is advisable due to its popularity. Alcohol is prohibited.
Darling Harbour: No tickets required. The site opens at 9:00am and alcohol is prohibited.
Dawes Point (Tar-Ra) Park: Situated directly under the Harbour Bridge, offering a unique perspective of the fireworks. The site opens at 9:00am and can accommodate up to 36,000 people. No tickets required & alcohol is prohibited.
Dudley Page Reserve: Tickets on sale ($30 kids, $65 adults). The site opens at 5:30pm. Alcohol for sale / no BYO.
Duff Reserve: No tickets required. The site opens at 12:00pm and alcohol is prohibited.
Dumaresq Reserve: No tickets required. The site opens at 3:00pm and alcohol is prohibited.
East Circular Quay: No tickets required. The site opens at 9:00am and alcohol is prohibited.
Elkington Park: No tickets required. The site opens at 8:00am and alcohol BYO is allowed.
Embarkation Park: No tickets required. The site opens at 4:00pm and alcohol is prohibited.
Giba Park: No tickets required. The site opens at 4:00pm. Alcohol BYO is allowed.
Goat Island: Tickets are sold out, but if you were lucky to get one the site will open at 7:30pm. Alcohol BYO is allowed.
Hickson Rd Reserve: No tickets required. The site opens at 9:00am. Alcohol is prohibited.
Illoura Reserve: No tickets required. The site opens at 8:00am. Alcohol BYO is allowed.
Lavender Bay Parklands: No tickets required. The site opens at 9:00am. Alcohol is prohibited.
Lookes Avenue Reserve: No tickets required. The site opens at 8:00am. Alcohol BYO is allowed.
Luna Park: Tickets are still on sale ($199 - $779). The site opens at 7:00pm. Alcohol is for sale / no BYO.
Manly Cove: No tickets required. The site opens at 5:00pm. Alcohol is prohibited.
McKell Park: No tickets required. The site opens at 12:00pm. Alcohol is prohibited.
Mort Bay Park: No tickets required. The site opens at 8:00am. Alcohol BYO is allowed.
Shark Island: Tickets are sold out, but if you were lucky to get one the site opens at 5:45pm. Alcohol BYO allowed.
Simmons Point: No tickets required. The site opens at 10:00am. Alcohol BYO allowed.
Strickland Estate: The entrance is free. The site opens at 5:00pm. Alcohol for sale / no BYO. Designated accessible viewing area for people with disabilities.
Sydney Opera House: No tickets required. The site opens at 7:00am. Alcohol for sale / no BYO. Designated accessible viewing area for people with disabilities.
Taronga Zoo: Tickets are sold out, but if you were lucky to get one the site opens at 6:00pm. Alcohol for sale / no BYO.
The Rocks: No tickets required. The site opens at 1:00pm. Alcohol prohibited.
Thornton Park: No tickets required. The site opens at 3:30pm. Alcohol BYO allowed.
West Circular Quay: No tickets required. The site opens at 9:00am. Alcohol prohibited.
Yarranabbe Park: No tickets required. The site opens at 3:00pm. Alcohol prohibited.
Yurulbin Park: No tickets required. The site opens at 8:00am. Alcohol BYO allowed.
NYE Fireworks beyond Sydney: exploring other Australian cities
Australia offers spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks displays across its major cities besides Sydney. Here are some top spots to consider:
Melbourne
Melbourne’s celebrations feature a combination of fireworks and laser displays. Notable spots include:
Albert Park: Located not too far from the city, you’ll enjoy incredible views of the majestic fireworks reflect in the lake, while surrounded by the beauty of nature.
Anderson Park, Hawthorn: This Hawthorn haven features plenty of wide open spaces, shady trees and, most importantly, city views. Take in the terrific sights on New Year’s Eve in this urban oasis.
Birrarung Marr: This park by the Yarra River should provide plenty of skyline views to enjoy the New Year’s Eve Fireworks.
Docklands: Offers waterfront views and is part of the city’s celebration zones. Expect live music and a festive atmosphere.
Edinburgh Gardens, Fitzroy North: Have a family-friendly New Year’s Eve at this park with free movie screenings, including an early film for kids. The festivities will kick off at 4pm and will continue until 12:30am.
Fed Square: Ring in the New Year with a line-up of free DJs and dancing in the heart of Melbourne starting 7pm and stick around for the midnight countdown to watch the fireworks. Later, enjoy the bars and restaurants around the place that will have special dining packages if you’re interested.
Flagstaff Gardens: Another official celebration zone, providing ample space and a lively environment. Entertainment starts at 6 pm, with fireworks at midnight.
Footscray Park: If you want to avoid the midnight rush with their family-friendly fireworks, you’re invited to come along to the Western Lawn and enjoy the food trucks on-site, the live music as well as roving entertainment, carnival rides and games. This is an alcohol-free event, and it will run from 6pm to 10:30pm.
Green Point, Brighton: This park by Brighton Beach features views of Melbourne’s skyline, as well as the iconic Brighton Beach Bathing Boxes.
Point Ormond, Elwood: This elevated lookout spot in the curving coastline in Elwood is gorgeous any time of the year, but is particularly special on New Year’s Eve.
Ruckers Hill, Northcote: Thishigh spot in Northcote provides endless views of Melbourne’s skyline, specially during the fireworks.
St Kilda Beach: Stand on the iconic pier and watch the dazzling display from afar, with the added bonus of the little anchored boats bobbing along the waves during the New Year’s Eve Fireworks.
The Strand and Nelson Place, Williamstown: Along the streets, The Strand and Nelson Place, you’ll find plenty of green spots with lovely views of Port Phillip Bay, the boats, and Melbourne’s skyline to enjoy the fireworks on New Year’s Eve.
The Shrine: Located around Birdwood Avenue and just in front of the Shrine of Remembrance, this spot will have live entertainment from 6pm to 1am.
Treasury Gardens: One of the official celebration zones with live entertainment and food vendors. It’s a popular spot, so early arrival is recommended.
Quarries Park, Clifton Hill: Located in Clifton Hill, you can relax on one of the open-grass areas and enjoy excellent views of the city skyline that will be illuminated wiith fireworks at midnight.
Wurundjeri Spur Lookout, Kew: This high lookout spot on Yarra Boulevard is great for sunsets, stargazing, and yes, views of the Melbourne fireworks on New Year’s Eve.
Brisbane
Brisbane’s fireworks light up the Brisbane River, with two displays at 8:30 pm and midnight. Ideal viewing areas include:
Ipswich: Out Ipswich way, fireworks are being launched from five locations (Springfield Central, South Ripley, Ipswich Central, Chuwar and Goodna) at 9pm. For Springfield Central, you can look for a clear line of sight above theSpringfield Central Sports Complex. South Ripley offers the best views above Ironbark Park. And for Ipswich Central, we recommend looking up at Limestone Park.
Kangaroo Point Cliffs: Provides elevated views of the river and city skyline.A popular spot for both locals and visitors.
Redcliffe Markets: The Esplanade will host a huge market wonderland from 5pm to 10pm with interesting stalls, street food and entertainment. The main event will be the dazzling fireworks displays to welcome the New Year.
South Bank Parklands: Family-friendly with restaurants and picnic spots.Arriving early is advisable due to large crowds.
Victoria Point Lakeside: From 5pm, enjoy an early evening of food trucks, market stalls, activities for the kids, as well as fireworks over the lake at 9pm in Brisbane’s east.
Wilson’s Lookout: Located in New Farm, offering a less crowded option with excellent views.Ideal for those seeking a quieter experience.
Perth
Perth’s New Year’s Eve includes fireworks over the Swan River. Top spots include:
Barrack Square: Offers great views of the fireworks and is adjacent to Elizabeth Quay. The area comes alive with festivities throughout the evening.
Burswood Park: The park’s wide-open spaces and riverside location provide excellent vantage points for the fireworks.
City Beach: The beach’s spacious sands and beautiful ocean views make it a great choice for families and friends.
Claisebrook Cove: The waterfront location provides stunning views of the fireworks, reflected beautifully in the calm waters.
Cottesloe Beach: This iconic beach is famous for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters, providing a serene backdrop for the fireworks.
Elizabeth Quay: The heart of Perth’s celebrations, featuring amusement rides, food vendors, and entertainment. Fireworks are scheduled for 8:30 pm and midnight.
Fremantle Esplanade: The Esplanade’s open spaces and proximity to Fremantle Harbour make it a fantastic location to watch the fireworks.
Hillarys Boat Harbour: Hillary Boat Harbour offers a festive coastal setting for New Year’s Eve, featuring fireworks, live music, and plenty of dining options.
Kings Park and Botanic Garden: Located high above the city, Kings Park provides unparalleled panoramic views of the Perth skyline and the Swan River. Its wide open spaces and serene atmosphere make it a favorite spot for families and couples looking for a quieter New Year’s Eve experience.
Langley Park: The open parkland provides ample space for families and groups to gather and enjoy the fireworks display.
Optus Stadium Park: The surrounding parklands offer ample space for spectators to relax and enjoy the fireworks.
Scarborough Beach: The pristine coastline offers a laid-back yet lively vibe, with plenty of space to set up for the evening. As the fireworks light up the coastal skies, you can enjoy the cool sea breeze and the sound of waves crashing in the background.
South Perth Foreshore: Provides a vantage point across the river to see the city skyline and fireworks. A popular spot for families and groups.
Swan River Foreshore: The Swan River Foreshore is another prime spot for watching New Year’s Eve fireworks, providing multiple viewing areas along its expansive stretch.
Adelaide
Adelaide’s Riverbank hosts vibrant celebrations with fireworks at 9 pm and midnight. Key locations include:
Elder Park / Tarntanya: Central to the festivities with live music, food stalls, and a family-friendly atmosphere.The park opens at 5:30 pm, with fireworks at 9 pm and midnight.
Glenelg Beach: Offers a seaside setting with fireworks and entertainment.A popular spot for those looking to combine beach activities with New Year’s celebrations.
Port Pirie Foreshore and Solomontown Beach: Not only is Port Pirie renowned for having the best fireworks display outside of Adelaide - to be staged at 9.30pm - this year’s celebration will also feature a huge live concert headlined by various artists.
Rymill Park: Hosts family-friendly events with a carnival atmosphere, including rides and food vendors.Fireworks displays are held at 9 pm and midnight.
Hobart
Hobart’s waterfront is the focal point for New Year’s festivities, featuring fireworks over the River Derwent. Prime spots include:
City of Hobart Fireworks Displays: The City of Hobart will host two spectacular fireworks displays over the River Derwent: the first one at 9:30pm, perfect for families and early celebrations, and the second one at midnight. The waterfront and nearby areas provide excellent viewing spots for both displays.
Kangaroo Bluff Reserve: Located across the river, offering panoramic views of the fireworks and city skyline. A popular spot for locals.
Princes Park: Provides a more relaxed environment with good views of the fireworks. Ideal for families and those seeking a quieter experience.
Salamanca Place: Adjacent to the waterfront with numerous bars and restaurants, offering views of the fireworks. The area is known for its lively atmosphere during New Year’s Eve.
Canberra
Canberra’s celebrations center around Lake Burley Griffin, featuring fireworks at 9 pm and midnight. Viewing areas include:
Central Basin and Commonwealth Bridge: Fireworks will launch from these places, ensuring maximum visibility across four celebration hubs. Other viewing spots are Canberra and Region Visitors Centre and one near Nerang Pool.
Lake Tuggeranong: Hosts local celebrations with fireworks, suitable.
Queen Elizabeth Terrace: Offers direct views over the lake. A family-friendly spot with ample space.
Regatta Point: Offers direct views over the lake, with entertainment and food options available. A family-friendly spot with ample space.
Rond Terrace: Offers direct views over the lake. A family-friendly spot with ample space.