🎆 Main Event: Lord Mayor’s New Year’s Eve Fireworks
What’s happening
Brisbane’s biggest NYE celebration is the Lord Mayor’s New Year’s Eve Fireworks — a free public event with two fireworks shows:
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7:45 pm (family-friendly)
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Midnight (to bring in 2026)
There will also be spectacular drone shows at 9:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m., visible from key spots along the river. Brisbane City Council
Where to watch
Best viewing zones along the Brisbane River:
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South Bank Parklands — Clem Jones Promenade, Riverside Green, River Quay
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Queen’s Wharf, Brisbane
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Howard Smith Wharves
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Riverside Centre
For relaxed or scenic alternatives, some locals like to head to lookouts like Kangaroo Point Cliffs or Mount Coot-Tha (great for a picnic + skyline view)
✔ Tip: It gets very busy — come early to grab a good spot.
🚤 Celebrate on the Water
A river cruise is an unforgettable way to watch the fireworks and skyline:
Boat & Party Cruise Options
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Brisbane Party Cruises – Party and sightseeing cruises with music & nightlife vibes.
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Brisvegas Cruises – Fun cruise experience often with festive events.
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River City Cruises – Scenic river tours with great views of the river and fireworks.
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Oasis Brisbane – Floating party venue on the river — sometimes runs special NYE cruises. Food and Wine Events
Why go for a cruise?
🎇 Incredible panoramic views, less crowd pressure than riverbanks
🍾 Often includes drinks, DJs, VIP lounges, and a midnight Brisbane skyline soundtrack
🥂 Nice for groups, dates, or a more premium NYE experience
Inside the City
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NYE at The Star — rooftop and bar events with live music and cocktails (ticketed), offering great skyline views and vibes. What’s on in Brisbane | Must Do Brisbane
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Many bars and restaurants along Eagle Street Pier & Howard Smith Wharves serve dinner and offer views of fireworks.
Chill Spots with Firework Views
Pack a picnic or meet friends at casual waterfront spots like:
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City Botanic Gardens
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Kangaroo Point Cliffs
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Captain Burke Park
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Brisbane Riverwalk
These are more relaxed and can be less intense than the packed main precinct.
🚆 Getting Around
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Free Translink public transport (buses, trains, ferries, trams) is usually available from 8 pm on 31 Dec until ~5:30 am on 1 Jan — perfect for getting to/from the fireworks zone. Brisbane City Council
If you want a quieter New Year’s, here is what you can do with friends:
🎇 New Year’s Eve Vision Board
A New Year’s Eve vision board is a fun activity where you think about the year ahead and create a board that shows your goals, hopes, and dreams for the new year. Grab your friends, make some snacks and plan 2026 in a creative and fun way.
🌟 What is the purpose?
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To reflect on the past year
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To set positive goals for the new year
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To feel motivated and excited about what’s coming
✂️ How to do the activity (15–30 minutes)
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Think: What do I want in the new year?
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Choose images, words, or draw pictures.
- You can use Google or Pinterest.
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Glue or arrange them on paper/poster / digital page.
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Wishing everyone a happy, enjoyable, and safe New Year’s Eve!
We can’t wait to see you all in 2026 for more fun, learning, and great memories!
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