Best places in Australia to ring in the New Year
It’s time to celebrate! So grab your party hat and a glass of champagne, and head to one of these NYE hotspots.
Sydney, NSW
Every year the harbour city puts on the year’s greatest show. Get down to the waterfront early (like, really early) to secure your spot as more than a million people will be there. The first fireworks show kicks off at 9pm and for the rest of the evening barges lit up with bright lights will be cruising around the harbour, accompanied by a party soundtrack. The fireworks at midnight are the big finale, a cacophony of light and sound that will amaze everyone.
Melbourne, VIC
Last year, travel bible Lonely Planet named Melbourne the third best place in the world to ring in the New Year (Sydney was down at number seven). The city’s winning lineup of rooftop bars pushed it to the top, with spots like Curtin House, Loop Roof, QT Melbourne and Naked for Satan offering unbeatable views. And then there’s that excellent coffee to perk you up on January 1.
Fitzroy Island, QLD
Celebrate New Year’s Eve in the tropics on Fitzroy Island, just offshore from Cairns. There’s music and fireworks and dancing in the sand, all with that unique tropical flair that makes Far North Queensland so special. Forget about dressing up – this is one time you can party in your boardshorts and thongs.
Margaret River, WA
There are lots of New Year’s Eve events to choose from in Western Australia’s favourite wine region. You can go fancy and book in for an extravagant degustation dinner at a winery, boogie down at a 70s disco party or head into the bush and hear local DJs playing on makeshift stages. Or if you want to hang out with the locals, all the beaches will be crowded with people toasting the final sunset of the year with a glass (or two) of local bubbles.
Tallarook, VIC
There are lots of New Year’s Eve festivals held around the country, but most of them are pretty crazy. For something a little more laid back – but just as fun – head to rural Victoria and the town of Tallarook. The New Year’s Evie festival is held in the middle of a farm with lots of live music, food, drinks and a giant slip ‘n slide running across the paddock. Embrace your inner child and give it a go.
Where are you celebrating the New Year?