The Sydney New Years Eve fireworks display is famous across the world, with thousands travelling to see it. Don’t leave planning to the last minute — here’s what you need to know ahead of the big day.
Ask me about New Year’s Eve and I’ll probably say it’s the most anticlimactic night of the year. But then, I’ve spent most of them in cold, dark England, trying to wrangle plans together until my friends and I settle on something considerably smaller than we originally hoped.
Don’t make our mistake. Get ahead of planning and ring in 2026 in the best way possible: by watching the Sydney Harbour fireworks.
The schedule – it’s more than just fireworks
It’s our most unmissable party. Thousands travel into the city for the New Year’s Eve fireworks, spending most of the day around the Harbour, holding down their spot for the perfect view of the show. There’s far more to the day than the midnight fireworks though — here’s the full schedule:
7.30pm — Smoking Ceremony: This traditional ritual of purification and unity will kick off the celebrations. Watch as the Tribal Warrior crew pass on their iconic vessels, Mari Nawi and Wirawi, with smoking native plants.
8.30pm — Pylon projections and lighting effects: The Sydney Harbour Bridge pylons will be illuminated throughout the night, as projections and lights shine on the eastern side.
8.45pm — Welcome to Country: Elders from the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council welcome visitors to Gadigal land.
9pm — Calling Country fireworks: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists will perform musical, dance and illustrative celebrations of sky, land and sea country. Perfect if you’re travelling with kids who won’t make it to midnight!
9.15pm — Sydney Harbour lights: Illuminated boats will put on an impressive visual spectacle as they glide across the harbour.
Midnight — Fireworks: Ring in the new year with the world’s best fireworks show. Featuring pyrotechnics launched from the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and other landmarks.
42 places to watch the Sydney New Years Eve fireworks
The Sydney Harbour Bridge can be spotted from all across the Harbour, even from Manly. But if you want to plan exactly where you’ll go, here’s a comprehensive guide of 42 best places to watch the Sydney New Year’s Eve fireworks.
First time visitor? Try Mrs Macquarie’s Point, Bradfield Park & Mary Booth Reserve, or Bennelong Lawn and Tarpeian Lawn in the Royal Botanic Garden. These all offer great views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House.
1. Barangaroo Reserve
Ideal for families, friends and couples wanting to experience a safe and memorable night enjoying panoramic views of the fireworks and western face of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. With cultural performances and live music, this is the perfect place to ring in the new year — and it’s near the Metro too!
Notes: Free entry. Alcohol for sale / No BYO. Accessible viewing area available.
2. Birchgrove Park
A popular location for families with good views of the western side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Notes: Free entry. BYO alcohol allowed.
3. Blues Point
At McMahons Point, this is a popular site with panoramic views of the western side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House.
Notes: Paid entry. Alcohol prohibited.
4. Bradfield Park and Mary Booth Reserve
In Milsons Point, this is a very popular location due to its close proximity to transport, large open spaces and views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House.
Notes: Free entry. Alcohol prohibited. Accessible viewing area available.
5. Bradleys Head: Amphitheatre, Athol Lawn or Mast Precinct
Take the family to Mosman to celebrate at Bradleys Head Amphitheatre or at Athol Lawn. Both offer prime views of the NYE fireworks. The Mast Precinct is a relaxed family-friendly space on New Year’s Eve. Choose a spot on the upper road, boardwalk or grassed area.
Notes: Free entry. Alcohol prohibited. Bookings live at 4pm on Thursday, September 4, 2025.
6. Cahill Expressway
Thousands of NSW residents will get the opportunity to celebrate at one of Sydney’s best viewing spots in Circular Quay. A free, family-friendly event will be held here. You can enter the ballot here.
Note: Balloted. Alcohol prohibited. Accessible viewing area available.
7. Campbells Cove
Located east of The Rocks and north of the Overseas Passenger Terminal, you’ll get fantastic views of Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House from this vantage point.
Note: Free entry. Alcohol prohibited.
8. Clark Island
Sail out from Darling Point to this unique island oasis in the harbour for superb views of the fireworks.
Note: Paid entry. BYO alcohol allowed. Bookings live at 4pm on Thursday, September 4 ($43.63 per person).
9. Cockatoo Island / Wareamah
Eager to end 2025 on a high? Escape to Cockatoo Island and spend NYE in the heart of Sydney Harbour! As either a camper or guest in one of the island’s heritage houses or apartments, you’ll spend the biggest night of the year close to the action but far from the crowds.
Note: Paid entry. Alcohol for sale / No BYO.
10. Darling Harbour
Darling Harbour is the ultimate family friendly destination to ring in the new year, with spectacular fireworks at 9pm and midnight over Cockle Bay, along with plenty of dining options and activities for everyone to enjoy.
Note: Free entry. Alcohol prohibited.
11. Dawes Point (Tar-Ra) Park
Located under the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Bradfield Highway on the southern side of the harbour, you can’t get much closer to the fireworks.
Note: Free entry. Alcohol prohibited.
12. Dudley Page Reserve
This Dover Heights favourite is loved by locals looking for a special sunset spot. For New Year’s Eve, it’s ideal for families as a fun but relaxed atmosphere takes over — plus those impressive views of the harbour. Sit back and relax with a picnic, or enjoy entertainment for the whole family.
Note: Paid entry: kids $30, adults $65, family ticket $170 (two adults + two kids). Paid entry. Alcohol for sale / No BYO.
13. Duff Reserve
At Point Piper in the Easter Suburbs, this foreshore location is small so views of the city and Sydney Harbour Bridge may be limited.
Note: Free entry. Alcohol prohibited.
14. Dumaresq Reserve
Small open foreshore location with good views of the city and Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Note: Free entry. Alcohol prohibited.
15. East Circular Quay
Cushioned neatly on the promenade between The Rocks and the Sydney Opera House, East Circular Quay has commanding views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, which makes it the perfect (but popular) place to enjoy Sydney’s NYE fireworks. You won’t get a view of the Sydney Opera House though.
Note: Free entry. Alcohol prohibited.
16. Elkington Park
A local Balmain park that’s popular with families, you’ll get a view of the western side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge from here.
Note: Free entry. BYO alcohol allowed.
17. Embarkation Park
There are lots of trees in this Potts Point park, so views of the Harbour Bridge are limited to narrow corridors.
Note: Free entry. Alcohol prohibited.
18. Giba Park
Giba Park in Pyrmont is a family friendly Park with good views of the western side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and stunning views across Johnstons Bay towards Balmain.
Note: Free entry. BYO alcohol allowed.
19. Goat Island
Another unique island location, this one can be found between the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Balmain. You’ll enjoy uninterrupted views of the Sydney fireworks to the west side of the bridge.
Note: Paid entry. BYO alcohol allowed. Bookings go live at 4pm on Thursday, September 4 2025 ($43.63 per person).
20. Hickson Rd Reserve
Hickson Road Reserve is regarded as one of the premium vantage points to celebrate New Year’s Eve. In the heart of The Rocks, you’ll find yourself right at the centre of the festivities, at the foot of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and with the Sydney Opera House and harbour laid out before you.
Note: Free entry. Alcohol prohibited.
21. Illoura Reserve
A very popular site in Balmain East, with good views of the western side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Note: Free entry. BYO alcohol allowed
22. Lavender Bay Parklands
Choose between Clark, Quibaree and Watts Parks, and you can’t go wrong — all offer excellent views of the western side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Note: Free entry. Alcohol prohibited.
23. Lookes Avenue Reserve
A small local park in Balmain East with good views of the western side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Note: Free entry BYO Alcohol allowed
24. Luna Park Sydney
Okay, maybe the most unmissable party can get better… Enjoy unbeatable views of the Harbour fireworks, as well as unlimited rides, live DJs and loads of theme park fun.
Note: Paid entry: general admission $279, premium GA $549, silver VIP $639, gold VIP $719, diamond VIP $899. Alcohol for sale; no BYO.
25. Manly Cove
Escape the inner city madness and enjoy a family-friendly evening. Start with the beautiful ferry ride across from Circular Quay before watching the sunset on the last day of the year. There will be fireworks at Manly Cove, and partial views of the Sydney Harbour fireworks at 9pm and midnight.
Note: Free entry. Alcohol prohibited.
26. McKell Park
Small open foreshore location in Darling Point, with good views of the city and Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Note: Free entry. Alcohol prohibited.
27. Mort Bay Park
Between Balmain and Birchgrove, this park is very popular with families. Enjoy direct views of the western side of Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Note: Free entry. BYO alcohol allowed.
28. Murray Rose Pool & Blackburn Gardens
Double Bay’s medium size foreshore location provides fairly limited city and Sydney Harbour Bridge views.
Note: Free entry. Alcohol prohibited.
29. North Head
Take the trip out to the headlands for distant views of the fireworks from all the way in Manly.
Note: Free entry. Alcohol prohibited.
30. Observatory Hill Park
Climb the hill in Millers Point for super close proximity to the fireworks and a good view of western side of Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Note: Free entry. Alcohol prohibited. Steep grassy terrain is available to sit on. Large trees in the park can block views.
31. Pirrama Park
This Pyrmont spot is recommended as an accessible family friendly site. You’ll get great views of the western side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and harbour.
Note: Free entry. BYO alcohol allowed. Accessible viewing area.
32. Rose Bay Foreshore
A medium size foreshore location with distant views of the city and limited views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Note: Free entry. Alcohol prohibited.
33. Royal Botanic Garden Sydney
Experience views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge from right above the Opera House. This is one of the best places to be. You can plant yourself on Bennelong or Tarpeian Lawn, near Fleet Steps or at Mrs Macquaries Point. Note: Free entry. Alcohol for sale, no BYO. Bars will have a selection of beverages and snacks, and food trucks offer a variety of menus.
Foundation & Friends will host an unforgettable evening picnic at the Mare and Foal Lawn, featuring stunning waterfront views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Guarantee your access to the harbour foreshore in this exclusive ticketed area. Note: Paid entry — Foundation & Friends members $215, their guest $265, children (6-15 years) $70, five years and under free. BYO Alcohol allowed. Accessible viewing area
34. Shark Island
Celebrate on Shark Island, off the shore in Point Piper. It’s a large grassed island with great views down the harbour.
Note: Paid entry; bookings go live at 4pm on Thursday, September 4 2025 ($43.63 per person). BYO alcohol allowed.
35. Simmons Point
A small local park in Balmain East with views of the western side of Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Note: Free entry. BYO alcohol allowed.
36. Strickland Estate
Strickland Estate in Vaucluse has large grassed areas within the grounds, and the site is licensed to sell food and alcohol. No prep needed!
Note: Free entry. Alcohol for sale / No BYO.
37. Sydney Opera House forecourt
Uninterrupted harbour views at the Sydney Opera House. A popular and free vantage point that will be ticketed in 2025.
Note: Ticket bookings will be available from December 26, 2025. Free entry. Alcohol for sale / No BYO. Accessible viewing area.
38. Taronga Zoo
Welcome in the New Year among the animals at Taronga Zoo. This is a ticketed event ranging from $120 to $722.
Note: Paid entry. Alcohol for sale / No BYO.
39. Thornton Park
A very popular site in Balmain East that becomes congested. That’s all because it offers excellent views of the western side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Note: Free entry. BYO alcohol allowed.
40. West Circular Quay
The site in The Rocks includes West Circular Quay promenade, First Fleet Park, Museum of Contemporary Art podium and Tallawoladah Lawn areas. Limited views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House.
Note: Free entry. Alcohol prohibited.
41. Yarranabbe Park
Large foreshore spot in Darling Point with limited city and Sydney Harbour Bridge views.
Note: Free entry. Alcohol prohibited.
42. Yurulbin Park
Another popular park between Balmain and Birchgrove with views of the western side of Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Note: Free entry. BYO alcohol allowed.
FAQs
What should I bring to the New Year’s Eve fireworks?
It can be a long day, especially when protecting your vantage point. Sunscreen, a hat, water, snacks, wet weather gear and a blanket are all essentials. You can also bring activities to keep everyone entertained — a board game, a book or your favourite podcasts or TV shows can all make the day more enjoyable.
Can I bring food and alcohol?
Make sure to check the restrictions of your chosen location — we’ve included some information above. Avoid glass containers, alcohol and large bags though, as these are often banned at vantage points. As for alcohol, most free vantage points, are alcohol-free zones in 2025. Again, check the locations above to see what rules apply at your chosen spot.
Can I re-enter if I leave?
Unfortunately not. Most vantage points don’t allow re-entry once you leave, hence coming prepared for a long stay. If you want to avoid losing your spot, expect to stay until after the midnight fireworks.
Will there be toilets?
Of course – most vantage points will have standard and accessible toilets. Accessible change rooms will be available at a select number of vantage points too. Check your chosen vantage point listing at sydneynewyearseve.com/vantage-points.
Are pets allowed?
No – your doggos will happily miss the fireworks! Assistance animals are permitted. Check your chosen vantage point listing for more information.
Will there be security checks?
Yes, to ensure safety for all visitors, security teams and bag checks are in place at vantage points. Follow signs and staff instructions.
Can I camp overnight?
Overnight camping is strongly discouraged, with access to vantage points managed by fencing and gates. Check your chosen vantage point to find out what time your chosen location opens. Arrive early to secure your spot.
What public transport will be available?
Extra services will run throughout the day and evening, but Circular Quay Station closes from 3pm to midnight. Use Wynyard, Martin Place or St James stations to access Circular Quay vantage points after 3pm, or Victoria Cross for North Sydney vantage points. Allow extra time and plan your trip at transportnsw.info
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