Australia Day Fireworks Locations 2025

Australia Day, celebrated on January 26 each year, is a national holiday that commemorates the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788. The day is filled with festivities, including ceremonies, parades, live music, and—most famously—fireworks displays that light up the skies across the country. Whether you’re in a major city or a regional area, Australia Day fireworks are a spectacular way to celebrate the nation’s history and achievements.

For those wondering where the best places to watch the fireworks are in 2025, we’ve compiled a list of the top locations across Australia. From iconic city locations to quieter spots with stunning views, there’s something for everyone. Here’s your guide to the best Australia Day fireworks locations in 2025.

1. Sydney, NSW – A World-Class Fireworks Display

As Australia’s largest and most vibrant city, Sydney offers one of the most iconic fireworks displays in the country. The fireworks show is held annually at Sydney Harbour, with the magnificent Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House providing the perfect backdrop. In 2025, you can expect a breathtaking spectacle that will light up the sky with vibrant colors and music.

Best Viewing Locations in Sydney:

Circular Quay: This bustling area is one of the best spots to watch the fireworks. The quay provides unparalleled views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, where the majority of the pyrotechnics will be centered. Arrive early to grab a good spot, as it gets crowded quickly.
The Royal Botanic Garden: For a more relaxed vibe, head to the Royal Botanic Garden, just steps from Circular Quay. You’ll have plenty of space to picnic and enjoy the fireworks in a more serene setting.
Barangaroo Reserve: Offering stunning views of the harbour and the city skyline, Barangaroo is one of Sydney’s best-kept secrets. It’s quieter than Circular Quay, so it’s a great option for those looking to avoid large crowds.
Sydney Harbour Cruise: If you want to make your experience even more special, book a ticket for a Sydney Harbour cruise. Watch the fireworks from the water with a front-row seat to the action.

2. Melbourne, VIC – A Stunning Fireworks Display by the Yarra

Melbourne is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, and the Australia Day fireworks display is a major highlight of the city’s celebrations. The fireworks are set off from the Yarra River, creating a spectacular reflection in the water that enhances the visual experience.

Best Viewing Locations in Melbourne:

Southbank Promenade: The Southbank Promenade along the Yarra River provides excellent views of the fireworks. The area is home to many bars and restaurants, so you can enjoy dinner or drinks while waiting for the show.
Docklands: For a quieter spot away from the crowds, head to Docklands. This area offers great views of the city skyline and the river, with plenty of open space for picnics and relaxation.
Royal Botanic Gardens: Just like in Sydney, Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens offers a peaceful environment with lovely views of the city and the river. It’s a family-friendly location where you can relax before the fireworks begin.

3. Brisbane, QLD – Fireworks Along the Brisbane River

Brisbane’s Australia Day fireworks show is a beautiful event, with fireworks lighting up the sky along the Brisbane River. The city’s landmarks, including the Story Bridge, South Bank, and Kangaroo Point Cliffs, serve as the perfect backdrop for this annual celebration.

Best Viewing Locations in Brisbane:

South Bank Parklands: One of the most popular spots to watch the fireworks in Brisbane, South Bank Parklands offers amazing views of the river and the city skyline. It’s a fantastic location for families and friends, with plenty of grassy areas to sit and enjoy a picnic.
Kangaroo Point Cliffs: For a slightly more elevated view of the fireworks, head to Kangaroo Point Cliffs. Located just across the river from South Bank, the cliffs provide stunning panoramic views of the city and the fireworks.
New Farm Park: For a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere, New Farm Park is a great spot to enjoy the fireworks with a peaceful riverside setting. It’s a family-friendly location with lots of space to stretch out and enjoy the evening.

4. Perth, WA – A Fireworks Show Over the Swan River

Perth is known for its laid-back lifestyle and stunning waterfront locations, making it a perfect place to enjoy fireworks. In 2025, Perth will light up the night sky with a spectacular fireworks display over the Swan River. The city’s unique location, with its beautiful skyline and riverside settings, makes for an unforgettable viewing experience.

Best Viewing Locations in Perth:

Kings Park: Perched on the edge of the Swan River, Kings Park is one of the best spots to watch the fireworks. The park offers breathtaking views of the city skyline, and the elevated position ensures that you’ll get an amazing view of the pyrotechnics as they light up the night sky.
Elizabeth Quay: Located along the riverfront, Elizabeth Quay is another prime location for fireworks viewing in Perth. The area is home to several restaurants and bars, making it a great place to enjoy food and drinks before the show.
South Perth Foreshore: For a more relaxed atmosphere, head to the South Perth foreshore. With sweeping views of the river and city, this location provides a tranquil setting to enjoy the fireworks.

5. Adelaide, SA – Fireworks by the River Torrens

Adelaide’s Australia Day fireworks display is set against the beautiful backdrop of the River Torrens. This riverside location offers plenty of open space for picnics and gatherings, making it ideal for families and groups of friends.

Best Viewing Locations in Adelaide:

Elder Park: Located along the River Torrens, Elder Park offers one of the best vantage points for watching the fireworks. The park is close to the city center and has plenty of grassy areas where you can relax and enjoy the festivities.
North Terrace: For a more urban experience, head to North Terrace. This location offers views of the river and the fireworks display, along with easy access to Adelaide’s vibrant city center.
Botanic Park: If you’re looking for a quieter and more scenic spot to watch the fireworks, Botanic Park is a great option. The park offers beautiful views of the river and city skyline, along with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the night.

6. Hobart, TAS – Fireworks Over the Derwent River

Hobart’s Australia Day fireworks are set over the picturesque Derwent River, with the stunning backdrop of Mount Wellington. The small but vibrant city offers fantastic locations for watching the fireworks, making it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

Best Viewing Locations in Hobart:

Salamanca Place: One of the best spots to watch the fireworks in Hobart is Salamanca Place. This vibrant area, known for its historic buildings and lively atmosphere, offers great views of the river and the fireworks display.
Battery Point: For a quieter, more elevated view, head to Battery Point. This neighborhood offers excellent views of the fireworks and is just a short walk from the city center.
Kings Domain: Located along the river, Kings Domain provides a great spot for families to enjoy the fireworks. The park has plenty of open space and is perfect for spreading out a picnic blanket and watching the show.

7. Darwin, NT – Fireworks by the Waterfront

Darwin’s warm tropical climate makes it the perfect setting for an outdoor Australia Day celebration. The fireworks are set off along Darwin’s Waterfront, with the city’s beautiful harbor serving as the backdrop for the pyrotechnics.

Best Viewing Locations in Darwin:

Darwin Waterfront: The Darwin Waterfront offers a stunning view of the fireworks, with plenty of restaurants and cafes to enjoy before the show. It’s the ideal spot for those who want to enjoy food, drinks, and entertainment leading up to the fireworks.
Stokes Hill Wharf: For a unique perspective, head to Stokes Hill Wharf. Located near the waterfront, this spot provides a slightly different view of the fireworks and the harbor.
Mindil Beach: If you’re looking for a more relaxed beachside atmosphere, head to Mindil Beach. While it’s a bit further from the main fireworks location, you can still catch the show with the added bonus of a beautiful beach setting.