25 Incredible Ways To Spend New Year's Eve

Still don’t have plans for New Year’s Eve? Here are 26 ways to welcome 2026.

New Year’s Eve in Australia is one of the most anticipated nights of the year, and there are so many ways to celebrate across the country. Some usher in the New Year surrounded by loved ones at home. Others flock to designated firework zones with friends or head out on the town for a night to remember.

Many flee the city, hoping for nothing more than a quiet conversation around a fire pit under the stars, while some are already fast asleep once the clock strikes midnight. Whatever your preference, here’s a few ways you can welcome 2026.

1. NYE on the Rooftop

Where: Hotel Marvell, Byron Bay, NSW
When: Until 12am
Tickets: $149 per person

Hotel Marvell in Byron Bay, NSW — Spend New Year’s Eve by the rooftop pool at Hotel Marvell.

Cheers to new beginnings at NYE on the Rooftop, hosted by Hotel Marvell in the beachside town of Byron Bay. Alongside stunning views out to the ocean, guests can look forward to Roederer champagne on arrival, snacks, roving canapes, live music and a dazzling countdown.

If you’d rather be in bed before midnight, opt for the NYE dinner downstairs at Byron Bay Oyster Bar, from 5pm–8:30pm. Known as one of Byron Bay’s most luxurious stays, why not book the night at Hotel Marvell and start 2026 in paradise?

2. House of Splendour

Where: Sydney Opera House, NSW
When: 8pm–1:30am
Tickets: $1050 per person (18+)

Champagne flutes — Cheers to 2026 at House of Splendour. (Image: Getty/Wil Punt)

Ring in the New Year with House of Splendour at the iconic Sydney Opera House. Located within Yallamundi Rooms, House of Splendour offers Sydneysiders prime real estate for the city’s midnight fireworks display.

Kick things off with a feast of canapes, free-flowing Champagne, premium wines and food stations. As the night progresses, expect bangers from a DJ on the decks, as well as roving entertainment to build the hype before the clock strikes twelve.

3. NYE25 White Party

Where: The Sebel Kiama, NSW
When: From 7pm
Tickets: $99 per person (18+)

One of Kiama’s coolest stays is hosting the party to end all parties so you can welcome 2026 with a bang. Taking full advantage of its Kiama Harbour views, the Sebel is throwing the NYE25 White Party at its onsite restaurant, Yves Social.

Jervis Bay Distilling Co. and Young Henrys will be serving up drinks as DJs pump out tunes in a bass-thumping countdown to midnight. As the name suggests, guests must come dressed to the nines in full white – so maybe avoid ordering that cab sav.

4. NYE on Bennelong Lawn

Where: Botanic Gardens of Sydney, NSW
When: From 9am
Tickets: Free entry; no ticket required

NYE on Bennelong Lawn in Sydney, NSW — Bennelong Lawn is the perfect vantage point for the fireworks. (Image: Destination NSW)

The Botanic Gardens of Sydney is arguably the best place to be on New Year’s Eve. With uninterrupted views across the harbour, it’s prime real estate for grabbing your favourite snacks (no BYO alcohol), spreading a blanket and enjoying the fireworks from Bennelong Lawn .

For those keen on front-row seats, gates will open at 9am – but many Sydneysiders arrive beforehand as they close once capacity hits 1000. If you miss out, don’t stress. Just head over to Fleet Steps (3000 capacity), the Tarpeian Lawn (3500 capacity) or Mrs Macquaries Point (10,000 capacity).

5. Summer Music Series

Where: Thredbo Alpine Hotel, NSW
When: 7pm–12:30am
Tickets: Free entry; no ticket required

Thredbo Alpine Bar in Thredbo, NSW — Celebrate 2025 the Thredbo way.

If you’re down south this NYE, you won’t miss out on the fun. The annual Summer Music Series at Thredbo Alpine Hotel will host a NYE Party presented by Balter at the Alpine Bar. Known as one of the coolest hangouts in town, you’ll be treated to more than just music.

After a day on the slopes or exploring town, slink in for a drink and live music sets by DJ Doyle and The Spindrift Saga. With a limited capacity, it’s best to arrive early – entry is free on a first-come-first-served basis.

6. New Year’s Eve Harbour Party

Where: Luna Park, Sydney, NSW
When: 6pm–2am
Tickets: $329 per person (18+)

Luna Park in Sydney, NSW — Enjoy access to unlimited rides at Luna Park this NYE. (Image: Destination NSW)

Sydney’s Luna Park invites you to celebrate the New Year on a rollercoaster high – literally. Yes, the amusement park’s New Year’s Eve Harbour Party offers prime views of the midnight fireworks, but what really sets this party apart is its line-up of extracurriculars.

Expect unlimited access to every ride, as well as live DJ sets and delicious bites. Where will you be when the clock strikes 12? Whirling away on the Tango Train? Relaxing on the ferris wheel? Or tearing up the dance floor with your best mates? Get your ticket to find out!

7. NYE at The Entrance

Where: Central Coast, NSW
When: 6pm–9pm
Tickets: Free entry; no ticket required

Say goodbye to 2025 at The Entrance this year, with music, food trucks, rides, live entertainment and, of course, fireworks! Unfolding along the town’s picturesque waterfront at Memorial Park, NYE at The Entrance promises free thrills for the whole family.

Running across three hours and wrapping up with a 9pm fireworks display, it’s the perfect celebration for little ones in tow. Everyone can enjoy the event, thanks to accessible parking and toilets, Auslan interpreters, free earplugs and a dedicated space for those with sensory needs.

8. NYE at Felons

Where: Manly, NSW
When: From 6pm
Tickets: $149 per person

Felons Manly in Sydney, NSW — Soak up harbourside views without the crowds this New Year’s at Felons Manly.

Want the waterfront views without having to fight the crowds this New Year’s Eve? No worries, just head to Felons on Manly Wharf, where you can sit back, relax and still enjoy the iconic fireworks over the harbour (at both 9pm and midnight).

The brewery is welcoming 2026 with a sunset feast over the water, paired perfectly with ice-cold beers and DJs spinning decks on the jetty. Each ticket includes a drink upon arrival, as well as a shared menu of fresh seafood, sirloin and roaming desserts.

9. NYE on the Yarra River

Where: Afloat & Arbory, Melbourne, Vic
When: 6pm–12am
Tickets: $165–$225 per person

Afloat in Melbourne, Vic — Welcome 2026 on the Yarra River in Melbourne.

You’re in for a night to remember this New Year’s Eve if you’re in the Victorian capital. Two of Melbourne’s best restaurants, Afloat and Arbory Bar, are again teaming up to throw an epic NYE Party on the Yarra River – complete with prime views of the city’s midnight fireworks.

Hosted across both waterfront venues, guests can gather to enjoy live music and entertainment under twinkling festoon fairylights. Depending on your budget, you can book a Main Deck Afloat package ($225) or an Arbory Package ($165) – while one is on the water and the other on land, both include canapes and bottomless house drinks.

10. NYE Rooftop Party

Where: QT Melbourne, Vic
When: From 7pm
Tickets: $325 per person (18+)

Drink in views of the city skyline from Rooftop at QT , the stunning onsite bar at QT Melbourne. Treat yourself to bottomless drinks, roving canapes and freshly shucked oysters as you and your best mates groove to live bands and DJ sets.

As the year ticks over to 2026, you’ll also have uninterrupted views of the midnight fireworks. Too tired to head home afterwards? No worries! You’re already at one of Melbourne’s best hotels after all, so just book a luxurious room downstairs.

11. Dinner at Moonhouse

Where: Balaclava, Vic
When: From 5:30pm
Tickets: $88 per person

Moonhouse in Melbourne, Vic — Moonhouse will be serving a one-off set menu this New Year’s Eve.

Foodies in Melbourne this New Year’s should head to Moonhouse . Located above Restaurant Balaclava, the intimate bar is planning a one-off set menu featuring everything from freshly shucked oysters and roast duck bao to pork belly skewers and steamed gai lan.

In partnership with highly lauded Aussie distillery Archie Rose, Moonhouse will also be serving a limited edition martini, an off-menu cocktail available for one night only. Don’t leave after downing dessert either – a live DJ set will carry you through to 2026.

12. NYE at Hofbräuhaus

Where: Melbourne, Vic
When: 6:30pm–10:30pm
Tickets: Free entry; no ticket required

Hofbrauhaus in Melbourne, Vic — Celebrate with a stein or two of German beer at Hofbräuhaus. (Image: Brian Doherty)

Ring in the New Year Bavarian-style at Hofbräuhaus in Melbourne , a traditional-style German pub that really knows how to celebrate. It’s all about big biers and bigger cheers, with live music kicking off from 6:30pm.

The festive beer hall will be pouring steins of imported beer, as well as authentic dishes like schnitzel, spätzle and sauerkraut. There is no ticket required, no set menu and no formal seating – just great food, great drinks and even better times. Prost!

13. Woodford Folk Festival

Where: Moreton Bay, Qld
When: 27 December – 1 January
Tickets: From $142 (18+)

Woodford Folk Festival in Brisbane, Qld — Create, connect, laugh and dance into 2026. (Image: Tourism & Events Queensland)

Welcome the New Year by setting your soul free at the Woodford Folk Festival . Built by a diverse congregation of the creative community, the festival has transformed into a village of music, culture and colour since its inception in 1887.

The vibrant event is held in the magical lands of Woodfordia by Lake Gkula, around a 1.5-hour drive north of Brisbane. Headlined by local, national and international acts, festival-goers are invited to create, connect, laugh, listen and dance into 2026.

14. NYE at Haven Pool Club

Where: Mondrian Gold Coast, Qld
When: 9pm–12:30am
Tickets: $295 per person (18+)

One of Australia’s hottest hotel openings of 2025, Mondrian Gold Coast is not only celebrating the beginning of 2026, but its first year of operational success. The lively open-air event will take over the hotel’s oceanfront deck, known as Haven Pool Club , for a party like no other.

Guests can expect live hibachi stations, premium beverages (including endless margaritas) and a rotating line-up of local DJs, including Nicka35, Carter, Kira Kira and SVLT. Welcome the New Year in tropical bliss, immersed in the Gold Coast’s unmistakable coastal energy.

15. Dinner at The Lex

Where: W Brisbane, Qld
When: From 5pm or 6:15pm
Tickets: $195 per person

The Lex at W Brisbane, Qld — Indulge in a sumptuous four-course menu this NYE at The Lex. (Image: Markus Ravik)

You’re invited to dine in style this New Year’s Eve at The Lex , located on level three of the stunning W Brisbane. Not only does this unmatched Brissie location deliver world-class food and service, but it also offers first-row seats to the NYE fireworks.

Indulge in a sumptuous four-course menu, as well as champagne, cocktails, beer and wine. Top it all off with live music and breathtaking views of the city skyline as you reminisce on the year. Reservations are from either 5pm or 6:15pm for a two-hour seating.

16. NYE White Party

Where: Cali Beach Club, Surfers Paradise, Qld
When: From 7pm
Tickets: $109–$179 (18+)

Cali Beach Club in Surfers Paradise, Qld — Cali Beach Club is ringing in 2025 with a classic White Party.

If your ideal New Year’s Eve celebrations involve partying into the early hours, then Cali Beach Club’s NYE White Party is for you. Set against the sparkling backdrop of Surfers Paradise, guests can look forward to live DJ sets, roving entertainment and beachside fireworks.

There’s plenty of space to mingle and dance with your mates, but if you’re keen to level up the night, book a poolside lounge, deck daybed, booth, or go all-out with a VIP cabana. While early bird and first release tickets have sold out, second and final release tickets are still up for grabs.

17. Taste of Summer

Where: Hobart, Tas
When: 27 December – 3 January
Tickets: $90 per person (on NYE)

food stalls at the Hobart/Nipaluna’s Taste of Summer — Taste of Summer is one of the capital’s best festivals. (Image: Alastair Bett)

Hobart’s gorgeous waterfront explodes with flavour and festivity over the New Year period, as Taste of Summer transforms Princes Wharf into a celebration of Tasmania’s finest produce. The week-long celebration opens at midday daily, giving you plenty of time to grab a coffee and wander down.

Over 80 locally led artisan stalls will be dishing up seasonal fare, fresh seafood, craft beer and premium wines across the week, paired perfectly with a line-up of live music. Don’t miss the big NYE party – with neon lights, performances and fireworks over the harbour, it’s the ultimate way to welcome 2026.

18. Launceston BeerFest

Where: Royal Park, Launceston, Tas
When: 4pm – 12:30am
Tickets: $43 per person

Beer tasting paddles — Cheers to 2025 with over 200 craft brews at NYE Beerfest in Launceston. (Image: Pauline Loroy)

Launceston’s annual NYE Beerfest invites you to spend the final day of the year at Royal Park, sampling your choice of more than 200 top-notch brews. Do you accept? If so, you’ve just signed up for one of the city’s hottest events – and there’s so much more than just beer to look forward to.

In the lead-up to an epic fireworks display come midnight, you can attend tasting sessions, masterclasses, comedy shows, live music sets and the (not-so-official) beer olympics. If you’re not a fan of beer, you’re still welcome – just grab a cider, wine cocktail or spirit instead!

19. Snack Festival

Where: Claremont Showground, Perth, WA
When: 5pm–1am
Tickets: $145 per person (18+)

Snack Festival in Perth, WA — Ring in the New Year at Snack Festival in Perth.

More NYE wonderland than music festival, Snack takes over Perth’s Claremont Showground with three main stages hosting epic music acts. Each stage has its own offshoot: The Pyramid Stage has a silent disco dancefloor, Sin City, a kissing booth, and the Duckzilla Stage, a VIP deck.

But that’s not all – in fact, it’s just the beginning. The festival also features thrilling rides and food trucks, as well as a beer garden, wedding chapel, snow park, piercing station, tattoo parlour and sumo wrestling ring. You’ll be having so much fun you won’t even notice the clock striking midnight.

20. Taste of Hearth

Where: Ritz-Carlton Perth, WA
When: 6pm–9.30pm
Tickets: $355 per person

Hearth in Perth, WA — Hearth champions fresh, local and seasonal produce.

See out 2025 with a decadent six-course dinner at the Ritz-Carlton Perth’s Taste of Hearth this New Year’s Eve. But it won’t be your usual menu. In true Hearth fashion, the menu is inspired by Western Australia’s landscape, from coast to country.

Think everything from torched Shark Bay scallops and Manjimup marron to a divine dessert of burnt coconut pavlova with quandong, desert lime and Geraldton wax. Service will pause at 8:15pm so guests can head out onto the terrace and watch the fireworks over Elizabeth Quay.

21. NYE Seafood Bash

Where: Stamford Plaza Adelaide, SA
When: 7:30pm–12:30am
Tickets: $229 per person (18+)

If you’re a foodie in the South Australian capital this NYE, you simply must find your way to the Stamford Plaza Adelaide. Why, you may ask? Because they’re hosting the Gonna Be Golden New Year’s Eve Seafood Bash , of course!

The all-local menu features fresh oysters, swimmer crab, Atlantic salmon, bluefin tuna, king prawns, scallop ceviche and more – paired with Wagyu Asado, fresh salads, charcuterie and dessert. There will also be a five-hour unlimited drinks package, live music and an award for best dressed!

22. New Year’s Eve Gala

Where: Kingsford The Barossa, SA
When: 6pm–1am
Tickets: $395 per person

Kingsford The Barossa in SA — Guests will be treated to a three-course set menu with paired wines.

To farewell 2025 in style, Kingsford The Barossa will be hosting an elegant New Year’s Eve Gala . Guests will begin with champagne and canapes before heading to the Wine Fault for a three-course set menu with paired wines.

Dinner finishes at 9:30pm, but the party is just getting started. Guests will be moved into the Lodge Bar, where live music, a late-night chef’s cheese table and drinks will carry you into the New Year. Be sure to book a room to avoid driving home, too.

23. Adelaide Strikers vs. Brisbane Heat

Where: Adelaide Oval, SA
When: From 7:15pm
Tickets: $69–$89

Adelaide Oval in SA — Adelaide Oval will host the nail-biting match on New Year’s Eve. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Sports fans – this one’s for you. It may not be the most conventional end of year celebration, but it sure is one of the coolest ways to do it. On New Year’s Eve 2025, the Adelaide Strikers will hit their home pitch to take on Brisbane Heat in an intense twenty20 match that’ll have the crowd going crazy.

Once the game finishes, be sure to stick around for an epic live performance by Birds of Tokyo. Still keen to kick on? Book your spot at the Post-Match Bash and enjoy one of Adelaide Oval’s best vantage points for the midnight fireworks.

24. NYE Concert

Where: Darwin Waterfront, NT
When: 3pm–12am
Tickets: Free entry; no ticket required

Say farewell to 2025 along Darwin’s picturesque waterfront with the city’s annual live concert , followed by a spectacular fireworks display over the sea. Enjoy performances by local musicians and entertainers before hitting the dancefloor for headliner Eskimo Joe.

This exciting community event is free for all to attend, so bring a picnic spread and relax on the grass with your nearest and dearest. Gates open at 3pm, with entertainment commencing from 5pm onwards.

25. New Year’s in the City

Where: Lake Burley Griffin, Canberra, ACT
When: 6pm–12:30am
Tickets: Free entry; no ticket required

NYE fireworks at Lake Burley Griffin, Canberra — Fireworks will light up Lake Burley Griffin at 9pm and midnight. (Image: EventsACT)

The country’s capital is turning up the heat this month for New Years in the City , promising a dazzling end to 2025. Grab your family and friends, find a big picnic blanket and pack all the snacks before heading down to Lake Burley Griffin in the afternoon.

After securing your waterfront spot for a perfect view of the fireworks, settle in for live music, entertainment, food trucks and that buzzing, building atmosphere. Whether you head home after the 9pm fireworks or stick around for the full midnight display, you’re in for a night to remember.

*All events were available to book at the time of writing.

Feast your way through Sun Country on the Murray – a beautiful and bountiful region in northern Victoria with gourmet delights galore.

Nestled on the lands of the Yorta Yorta People along the mighty Murray River, Sun Country is a truly extraordinary place. The northern Victorian enclave is a tapestry of meandering waterways, ancient forests, sandy beaches, enchanting country towns and an easy way of life.

Beyond its landscapes and bucolic charm, Sun Country on the Murray is a culinary paradise: think farm-fresh produce, family-run wineries and no shortage of places to feast.

If you’re a serious foodie or simply epicurious, here’s your ultimate guide to a gourmand Murray River getaway.

The Murray Farm Gate Trail

The self-guided Murray Gate Farm Trail lets you sample the area’s best produce while immersing yourself in the lush Goulburn and Murray Valleys. The trail has something to suit every palate and pace, but there are a few notable highlights.

1. Rich Glen

Rich Glen Provedore and Rich Glen Skin & Beauty — Stock up at Rich Glen. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Rich Glen is renowned for its award-winning olive oils. Everything is grown and created on the family farm in Yarrawonga, the results of which you can visit at Rich Glen Provedore – a treasure trove of gourmet foods, including that signature olive oil. Or explore Rich Glen Skin & Beauty, which stocks lush handmade skincare and wellness products.

2. How Now Dairy

A charming micro-farm producing ethical dairy, How Now Dairy , lets its baby calves remain with their mothers and its cows roam on rolling pesticide-free pastures. Try a selection of cheeses that do good and taste good, including a fantastic punchy blue, and velvety milk with a thick, creamy top.

3. Cactus Country

Cactus Country in the murray — Stop into Cactus Country. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Cactus Country is a 12-acre stretch of desert-like garden containing cacti of all shapes, sizes and colours. Naturally, it makes the most of its bounty at the on-site bar and restaurant, with a cactus-infused dessert menu alongside a vibrant line-up of Mexican snacks and mains.

4. The Olde Creamery

The Olde Creamery is a local icon, a former hobby farm that has flourished into a thriving purveyor of flowers and foods. The elderflower cordial and bramble gin and tonic jam are must-tries, and make for tasty mementoes of your trip.

Wineries, breweries and distilleries

The region’s sunny climate and rich soils make it a prime place for viticulture. If wine isn’t your thing, you’ll also find boutique breweries and distilleries producing top-notch beers and spirits.

1. Squires Winery

a couple sitting at the bar at squire's winery, sun country on the murray — Pop in for a tasting. (Image: Visit Victoria)

With its idyllic positioning on the Ovens River, Squires Winery is a lovely setting for a long, leisurely lunch or tasting. Enjoy a riverside sip of prosecco, rosé or cab sauv, complemented by seasonal bites and a backdrop of towering gum trees.

2. Cape Horn Vineyard

Cape Horn is one of the region’s most established vineyards. Its sparkling durif/shiraz is a crowd favourite and well worth trying on your foodie tour, especially if it’s served with one of the winery’s delicious wood-fired pizzas.

3. Byramine Homestead & Brewery

A top pick among beer, cider and history enthusiasts, Byramine serves a rotation of brews made on-site in the historic homestead. Wander through the venue and learn about its colonial past before sitting down to a freshly made Ploughman’s and cold local ale.

4. Monichino Wines

Monichino is a slice of la dolce vita in northern Victoria, producing classic Italian varietals like pinot grigio and aromatica. Drop by for a tasting at the cellar door (open weekends or by appointment) and explore everything from crisp whites to robust fortified wines, or pack a picnic and savour your glass in the picturesque gardens.

5. Corowa Distilling Co

Corowa Distilling Co crafts an incredible variety of single-malt and blended whiskies, and is a beloved spot among locals and visitors alike. Stop in for a tasting flight in the whisky room, or a hearty breakfast or lunch paired with a wee dram.

Farm-to-table dining

If you’ve got the time to linger over a gourmet spread, Sun Country on the Murray has an abundance of outstanding restaurants and cafes.

1. O’Reilly’s Food and Wine

O’Reilly’s feels much like stepping into a good friend’s home, albeit with a refined twist. The menu changes weekly and rotates through a selection of comforting yet elevated dishes – think lamb cottage pie, French-style moussaka, a perennially popular open steak sandwich and cakes that change flavours weekly.

2. Stock and Barrel

a couple eating at Stock and Barrel victoria — Soak in views of Lake Mulwala. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Tucked inside The Sebel Yarrawonga hotel, overlooking sparkling Lake Mulwala, Stock and Barrel does pub classics with a Sun Country spin. Order a perfectly seared steak and triple-cooked potatoes alongside a freshly poured pint, or try a regional highlight: local produce features abundantly across Stock and Barrel’s dishes.

3. The Bend

With spacious decks and panoramic views of the Murray, The Bend is ideal for a sun-soaked long lunch. Order a round of moreish share plates (like baja fish tacos and a warm-from-the-oven brioche loaf stuffed with cream cheese and herbs) or a signature cocktail and indulgent main – we can’t go past the slow-braised wagyu brisket.

4. Blacksmith Provedore

If you’re after a slick yet relaxed dining destination, head to Blacksmith Provedore . Perched right next to Lake Mulwala, the venue is airy and elegant, with a minimalist-chic design. The pizzas are seriously good too, made with 72-hour fermented dough and toppings sourced from Italy’s finest producers.

5. Broken Willow

As soon as you enter Broken Willow ’s front doors, you’re greeted with genuine hospitality and a classic bistro menu that has something for everyone: succulent grilled meats, parmas and schnitzels, juicy burgers, and international dishes ranging from weekly curry and stir-fry specials to zippy banh mi.

While you’re there

Thompson Beach in sun country on the murray — Discover plenty to do between meals. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Got a few hours to spare? Make the most of your trip by exploring the natural wonders and rich cultural heritage of your riverside surroundings.

Barmah National Park is a sanctuary of walks through majestic river red gums and serene wetlands. Here, a seat on board a Kingfisher River Cruise offers a different Murray experience, letting you see the vast river from the perspective of the Yorta Yorta peoples.

If you’re a watersport enthusiast, Lake Mulwala in Yarrawonga is a favourite for canoeing, cruising, fishing, kayaking and water skiing. While the silo murals at Katamatite, St James, Tungamah and more recently Waaia are essential stops in Victoria’s famed Silo Art Trail .

In Cobram Barooga, make sure to visit Thompson’s Beach, the largest inland beach in the southern hemisphere. Nearby, the Bullanginya Dreaming project is an award-winning 1.8km immersive art experience that immerses you in light and sound to tell a rich story of country, culture and connection.

Start planning a tasty getaway to Sun Country on The Murray at suncountryonthemurray.com.au.