Official Government rundown of Australia Day 2026 events: What’s happening in Sydney?

• The most iconic places to celebrate Australia Day in Sydney in 2026.
• The best family-friendly options for the whole gang.
• All the insider tips on how to enjoy your day without the hassle.

Grab the zinc and your green and gold togs, folks, this is gonna be a cracker of an Australia Day in Sydney! Whether you’re a true-blue Aussie local or a super keen visitor to Sydney in 2026, this is the ultimate guide to have you bragging about your Australia Day celebrations from start to finish.

With the government unveiling the official Australia Day program, there’s something for everyone, from family-friendly events featuring watersports and early fireworks to high-energy, action-packed celebrations. Here are all the events you need to know about, along with our top tips for making the day one to remember.

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Key events

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1. Dawn reflection

At first light on January 26, the world-famous Sydney Opera House sails will come to life, lit up with projections of spectacular Aboriginal artworks. This year, the sails will be illuminated for the Dawn reflection at sunrise witha striking artwork by proud Aboriginal man, Garry Purchase.

Barabiyanga… In the words of the ancient Eora people, “these are the precious moments before the first rays of light paint the shores of our island home.” The Dawn Reflection ceremony invites viewers into a quiet pause. It’s promoted as a time to recall Australia’s unfolding story.

Dawn Reflection is an event where onlookers are encouraged to find courage and inspiration from each other and commit to shaping Australia into a place of unity and inclusion for every person who calls this land home.

As the two flags rise in unison at the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge to salute the dawning of Australia Day, people also greet the day with respect.

Discover more about the history of Dawn Reflection – the artists and artwork.

Where: Overseas Passenger Terminal, 3 Circular Quay West, The Rocks.
When: 5:20-5:40am.

2. Barangaroo Reserve

Following the Dawn Reflection, the WugulOra ceremony will take place in Barangaroo Reserve. Barangaroo Reserve is a fantastic alternative to the crowds at The Opera House; however, it fills up very quickly, so you’ll want to arrive early. There’s no ticket needed; it’s just first-come, first-served.

“WugulOra” means “One Mob” in the local Gadigal language, signifying togetherness and unity for all Australians. Barangaroo Reserve in Sydney is a historically significant site for the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. The ceremony provides a reflective start to Australia Day.

Ceremonial Elements include a Smoking Ceremony, which is a traditional cleansing ritual using native plants, with a flame brought from Me-Mel (Goat Island) to Barangaroo. This is followed by performances, featuring Aboriginal dancers (like Koomurri) and singers, sharing ancestral stories and culture and then finally, the National Anthem, performed in both English and Eora.

WugulOra is broadcast on SBS, and SBS On Demand on Monday, 26 January, at 7:30am.

Where: Barangaroo Reserve, Walumil Lawns
When: The ceremony starts at 7:30am – 8:30am

3. A Harbour Cruise

One of the best ways to embrace Australia Day is to ditch the land and head out on the water. Climb onboard some of the best Australia Day cruises to get up close to the action. Depending on which one you book, you can enjoy everything from a relaxing small crowd on a catamaran, with swims and water sports and a low key bbq. Or, you can go deluxe and board a floating restaurant/style vessel with a sit down lunch or dinner, live music and entertainment and drinks packages. Just remember, the downside with a harbour cruise can be that you are beholden to the schedule on the night and there’s no return to shore until the captain says so. Aye Aye!

There is no better way to experience Sydney’s spectacular Australia Day celebrations than by immersing yourself in the heart of the action on Sydney Harbour. Whether you are seeking a daytime adventure or a night-time extravaganza, this curated list of fantastic spectator vessel operators ensure you can be part of the excitement of our national day like never before.

Where: Sydney Harbour
When: Cruise boarding times vary depending on the individual itineraries.

Click here for more information about harbour cruises for Australia Day.

4. Operators running Sydney Harbour cruises on Australia Day include

• Sydney by Sail
• Australian Cruise Group
• Captain Cook Cruises
• Fusion Cruises
• Harbourside Cruises
• Magic Cruises
• Sydney Princess Cruises
• Sydney Showboats
• Sydney Tall Ships

5. Bridge Climb

The Coathanger (aka Sydney Harbour Bridge) will celebrate Australia Day in true form in 2026. Believe it or not, you can actually be ON the bridge when the fireworks are ignited, but if you’re not so keen on being covered in gunpowder, you can watch the festivities of the day unfold from the top of the steel structure throughout the day and into the lead up of the evening events.

6. Salute to Australia – 11:30am to 12:15pm

A 21-gun military salute involving the Australian Army, Royal Australian Navy and Royal Australian Air Force provides the ceremonial highpoint of the Sydney Harbour program and is now a much-loved Australia Day tradition. If you want to watch it from the top of the Bridge, book a BridgeClimb between 9:25 and 10:05 am or a BridgeClimb Express between 10:20 and 11:10 am.

7. Tug & Yacht Ballet – 12:05pm to 12:15pm

Watch a fleet of yachts, powerful tugboats, jet skis and ferries join in on a dance that’s truly one of a kind. Choreographed to classical music, the vessels will manoeuvre in unison in an amazing show of maritime grace and movement. Book your BridgeClimb between 10:55 and 11:05 am or a BridgeClimb Express between 10:50 and 11:00 am to enjoy the show from the summit.

8. Australia Day Harbour Parade – 12.45pm to 2pm

Vessels of all shapes and sizes will be decked out in their Australia Day finery for the annual parade. To watch the show of colour and flags parading around the harbour from the best vantage point, book a BridgeClimb between 10:45 and 11:55 am or a BridgeClimb Express between 11:30 am and 12:40pm.

9. In the Sky: Red Berets, Qantas and Hornets – 1.15 to 1.30 pm

Between 1:15 and 1:30pm, three Hornet F18s and a Qantas A380 will fly over the Bridge, culminating in a Red Berets’ parachute display by the Australian Army over Farm Cove. Get close and personal to the action by booking a BridgeClimb between 11:05 am and 1:30pm

10. Fireworks climbs 6:55pm – 8:20pm

Between 9 and 9.30 pm, the synchronised fly board and jet sky performance will take place over the water, culminating in a massive fireworks display. You can book a BridgeClimb between 6:55pm and 7:25 pm or a BridgeClimb Express between 7:40 and 8:20 pm. These spots are strictly limited for the lucky few who get in early. And, for one day only, all climbers on Australia Day will enjoy a soundtrack of the best Aussie Rock music through their headsets. 

Click here to book your bridgeclimb tickets.

Where: Sydney BridgeClimb Eora Country, 3 Cumberland St, The Rocks
When: Various climbs operate throughout the day, pre bookings are essential.

11. Oz Day 10K

Going strong with an incredible 37 years this year, the Royal Rehab Oz Day 10K has become a standout moment of Australia’s national day. Every year, wheelchair track and road athletes unleash astonishing speed, strength and precision as they race through The Rocks, pushing themselves to the limit in a thrilling battle to the finish line.

You can witness this world-class athleticism up close from prime vantage points along George Street and Hickson Road — the perfect spots to cheer on the competitors. The race has seen legends claim victory, including Kurt Fearnley AO with an unmatched 11 men’s titles, Louise Sauvage OAM with 10 women’s titles, and Madison de Rozario OAM, also a 10-time women’s champion.

For more details, click here.

Where: Museum of Contemporary Art, The Rocks
When: 9am – 10:30am

12. Australia Day at The Rocks

Head down to The Rocks to enjoy Australia Day under the summer sun and be a stone’s throw away from the waterfront action.

From 10.00am The Rocks Markets burst into life with stalls of local fashion, jewellery, crafts and irresistible eats from around the globe. The afternoon brings the Working Harbour Vessel Display and the historic Australia Day Regatta, rounding out a vibrant celebration of community, culture and national pride at The Rocks. Grab a snack (or several), wander among the stalls, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy free live music drifting through the laneways. It’s the perfect stop for tourists exploring the city and locals rediscovering their own backyard.

For more information on The Rocks on Australia Day click here.

Where: Corner of George Street and Playfair Street, The Rocks
When: 10am – 5pm

13. Yabun Festival

Yabun, meaning ‘music to a beat’ in Gadigal language, is Australia’s largest annual one-day festival celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Started in 2001 as a continuation of the very first Survival Day events held during held throughout the 1990s.

Organised by Gadigal Information Service, the operators of Koori Radio, the Yabun Festival is a free, all-ages event featuring a packed program of high-profile and emerging First Nations musicians and dancers, speakers, children’s entertainment and activities, market stalls and more.

For the full line-up of activities and more information click here.

Where: Victoria Park, The traditional lands of the Gadigal people, Broadway
When: 10am – 7pm

14. Harbourfest

The water, the sky, and the foreshore all burst into life as the world’s most iconic harbour becomes a stage for a full day of free events. From on-water spectacles to shoreline celebrations and aerial displays, there’s something for everyone. If you can imagine it happening on water, then chances are, it’s in the schedule for the day.

An annual favourite is the much-loved Ferrython, where four Emerald Class ferries go head-to-head in a spirited race to the ultimate finish line – the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It’s fast, colourful, and guaranteed to thrill.

Spectators can cheer on the ferries from some of Sydney’s best free vantage points, including Mary Booth Reserve, Circular Quay, Hickson Road Reserve, Campbells Cove, the Royal Botanic Garden, the Sydney Opera House, and Mrs Macquarie’s Chair.

Whether you’re watching from the water or settling in with family and friends along the foreshore, Australia Day on Sydney Harbour delivers unforgettable moments for everyone.

Click here to Find out more.

Where: Circular Quay & Sydney Harbour
When: 10:30am – 4pm

15. F-35A Lightning II Handling Display

Get ready for an unforgettable spectacle as a Royal Australian Air Force F-35A Lightning II roars over Sydney Harbour and the iconic Harbour Bridge in celebration of Australia Day. Watch in awe as Flight Lieutenant Kurt Pearce from the Air Combat Group pushes the limits in a high-energy aerial display showcasing the incredible speed, agility, and cutting-edge technology of the F-35A.

This jaw-dropping performance will feature dramatic altitude changes, precision manoeuvres, and mind-blowing 9G turns—a true demonstration of the aircraft’s world-class capability and the pilot’s elite skill. Join thousands along the Harbour for this thrilling celebration of power, precision, and pride.

Discover more about the F-35A Lightning II

Where: The air above, Sydney Harbour
When: 12pm – 12:10pm

16. Ferrython

Since its inception in the late 1970’s, the Ferrython has grown into a true Aussie classic – a much-loved community tradition and one of the most iconic events on Sydney Harbour. It is no ordinary race. Four of Sydney’s beloved Emerald Class ferries go bow-to-bow, surging across the harbour toward the ultimate finish line – the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

The atmosphere is electric. Crowds pack the shoreline to cheer on their favourite ferry, while those on board experience the thrill of the race from the heart of the action.

It’s an unforgettable tradition that captures the spirit of summer, community, and celebration. Tickets for the 2026 Ferrython are free but limited and will be released in January.

Tickets for the 2026 Ferrython will be released in January. Tickets will be free and limited. Click here for more.

Where: Sydney Harbour Bridge
When: 12:10pm -12:30pm

17. Maritime Mayhem

Maritime Mayhem is a tug boat enthusiasts dream! Watch as Circular Quay transforms into a high-energy stage of thrills, splashes, and show-stopping entertainment. Jet boats will carve up the harbour, and tugboats perform crowd-pleasing stunts you won’t see on any other day of the year. The action unfolds in a wild, choreographed display set to a pumping soundtrack that keeps the energy high and the crowd buzzing.

With plenty of great vantage points around Circular Quay, spectators can get up close to all the mayhem. Gather your friends and family, find a spot on the foreshore, and soak up one of Australia Day’s most unforgettable on-water spectacles.

Where: Circular Quay
When: 12:15-12:30pm

18. The Navy Flag Display

One of the most breathtaking moments of Australia Day is the Navy helicopter soaring across the skyline, towing a giant Aussie National Flag that flies proudly above crowds below.

Taking off from Middle Head, the chopper sweeps over Sydney’s northern beaches, across the Harbour, and then tracks south toward Nowra. Along the way, thousands of people witness this flag-bearing tribute – a moment that always pleases the crowds.

To catch the flyover in all its glory, head to vantage points around Sydney Harbour, the northern and eastern beaches, or along the south coast.

Where: Above Sydney Harbour
When: 12:30pm – 1pm

19. Tall Ships Race

The majestic Tall Ships Race has been a centrepiece of Australia Day on Sydney Harbour since 1994, and it remains one of the most popular sights of the day.

Sailing off from Bradley’s Head to start, the magnificent 1874 James Craig leads a proud fleet of historic and charter vessels as they glide up the harbour in full sail. The race follows a route along the northern side of Fort Denison, offering views of Sydney’s most iconic landmarks, before finishing beneath the Sydney Harbour Bridge at 1.30pm.

Spectators are encouraged to gather along the foreshore to grab a glimpse of this floating grandeur. Some of the best vantage points include Bradfield Park, Blues Point, Hickson Road Reserve, the Overseas Passenger Terminal, and the Sydney Opera House.

Where: Bradley’s Head to Sydney Harbour Bridge
When: 1pm – 1:30pm

20. Harbour Parade

This is the Aussie spirit personified. One of the highlights of Australia Day Harbourfest is the Harbour Parade. Imagine “fashions on the field,” but on water. Boats of every shape and size drape themselves in colourful, creative, and proudly Aussie-themed, flamboyant decorations, cruising the harbour in a vibrant celebration of national spirit. It’s a dazzling display that spectators love and participants never forget. And there are prizes to be won!

Every floating vessel is welcome to join the flotilla. Whether you’re captaining a tinny, yacht, cruiser, or commercial vessel, this is your chance to show off your creativity and be part of a truly iconic Sydney Harbour tradition.

Prizes are awarded in each of the following categories:

• Budgie Smuggler Award — Best Small Vessel
• Best in the Biz Award — Best Commercial Vessel
• Hello Sailor! Award — Best Newcomer
• The Captain’s Choice Award — Best Dressed
• Going Overboard Award — Most Imaginative

All participating vessels have access to front-row Harbour views to catch all the exciting action of the thrilling Ferrython race. So, get your crew together, decorate your decks, and make waves this Australia Day. Enter Sydney’s iconic Harbour Parade and be part of the celebration!

Where: Sydney Harbour
When: 1pm – 2pm

21. Australia Day Regatta

First held in 1837, the Australia Day Regatta is the oldest continuously run annual sailing event in the world. It includes a huge range of individual events, from ocean racers and classic gaff-riggers to radio-controlled yachts and historic skiffs.

The Regatta is open to every type of vessel from ocean racers and classic gaff-riggers to radio-controlled yachts and historic skiffs. No yacht is too large or small to enjoy this fabulous, all-inclusive day afloat.

Onlookers can immerse themselves in the maritime spectacle from vantage points around the Harbour and enjoy the friendly competition and a display of skill and camaraderie, where the beauty of the waters met the heart of the nation.

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Sydney Harbour, this iconic race invites everyone to witness a celebration of nautical prowess. The Regatta is an event for people of all ages and abilities—welcoming anyone from any walk of life to get involved.

For more information click here.

Where: Sydney Harbour
When: 1:30pm – 6pm

22. Australia Day Live

The Sydney Opera House forecourt is the most iconic spot in the country to celebrate Australia Day Fireworks. Prime locations to take in the spectacular are the Opera House forecourt, Circular Quay, Barangaroo Reserve or even from various cruises on the harbour. Enjoy the daytime festivities and line up your prime pozzie for the fireworks display in the evening.

Here’s the list of key events in and around the fireworks that will help shape your Australia Day plans.

• Australia Day Live Concert: 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM at the Sydney Opera House Forecourt.
• Main Fireworks: Around 9:00 PM to 9:30 PM, with water displays (jet skis, flyboarders) beforehand

Australia Day Live will feature an all-star Aussie lineup, including Cody Simpson, Kate Ceberano, William Barton and Jude York, alongside supergroup The Fabulous Caprettos, composed of Wendy Matthews, Rai Thistlethwayte, Dave Gleeson and Joe Camilleri.

The Harbour Bridge does the majority of the lifting when it comes to celebrations on Australia Day. Hence, the closer to the Bridge, the busier the crowds and the better the views. That said, you may wish for a more distant perspective and a larger picnic spot. If you’re determined to hit the hot spots of the Opera House forecourt or Circular Quay, be sure to get there early and consider booking in for specific events.

Head on over to sydneyoperahouse.com to secure your free Australia Day Live tickets.

Where: Sydney Opera House; Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000
When: The concert starts at 6pm

For a FULL rundown of the very best spots to watch the Australia Day Fireworks in 2026 click here

23. Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) Fun in the Sun

Surf Life Saving NSW will host its Fun in the Sun activation at First Fleet Lawn, offering free activities and games where children can engage with volunteers and learn how to stay safe in the water. The activation will pop up between 10:30am and 4pm, between their famous red and yellow flags in front of the MCA. The designated area offers the perfect place to practice sun safety and a great retreat to Slip, Slop, Slap, plus a water station so that you can stay hydrated.

Where: First Fleet Lawn (in front of the MCA).
When: 10:30am-4pm.

24. Mega Kidz Zone

Bring your kids to the Overseas Passenger Terminal precinct for their free Mega Kidz Zone, promising a day filled with giant games, inflatables, arcade action and harbour entertainment. Conveniently placed next to the SLSA pop-up, meaning you can make sure they’re protected from the sun all day, the Mega Kidz Zone is a highlight for any youngsters looking to play, explore and make memories.

This year, the new Lego Zone will provide a space for kids to build and learn, while the popular Wheelchair Basketball is back, teaching kids and adults alike about adaptive sport, inclusion and the Paralympics as they take their turn shooting hoops in a chair.

Where: Overseas Passenger Terminal precinct.
When: 10:30am-4pm.