The infamous year of 2021 is finally coming to an end, and it’s time to celebrate the New Year in style. 

If you’re one of the lucky few not isolating, here is your ultimate guide to find out what’s going on near you. 

Melbourne

Naturally, seeing the fireworks is no.1 on the New Year’s to-do-list. Unlike other years, to see the fireworks in the city you must be registered in one of the four Celebration Zones.

This decision was made in an effort to reduce crowds and keep track of the onlookers.  

Unfortunately, all those tickets are sold. But, hopefully you or a friend still know a sweet spot to see them from. 

Also taking place now is the Beyond The City summer festival at Sidney Myer Music Bowl. Enjoy the barmy weather with Lime Cordiale, Mallrat, Spacey Jane, Sycco, Pnau and more. 

Another exciting event is the New Year Streets Feasts. They’ve teamed up with fantastic restaurants and celebrated chefs to create outdoor dining precincts that will be a must-attend for our foodies out there. 

Sydney

Though many will be enjoying the fireworks display from home, it’s all still set to go ahead at 9pm and midnight. 

People are being asked not to travel into the CBD but instead purchase tickets at one of the many popular viewing areas. 

In a similar vein, Western Sydney, Parramatta has a display at 9pm and midnight with tickets to purchase at five different locations. This includes: Dundas, Ermington, North Parramatta, Northmead and Old Toongabbie. 

New South Wales Police Minister Paul Toole is urging “people to be safe” despite the rough year and urge to snog your loved ones. 

Brisbane

The Lord Mayor’s New Year’s Eve Fireworks will be exploding at 8:30pm and at midnight. 

Deputy Mayor Krista Adams has applauded the “special aquatic effect” that “will create a sea of red and green on the surface of the river”

If you’re looking for a great spot, Kangaroo Point Cliffs is expecting big crowds and will have the surrounding roads closed for onlookers. 

Cairns

Like their neighbouring cities, the fireworks display will take place at 8:30pm and midnight. 

The New Year’s Eve Resolution Glow in the Dark Fun Run is also set to be a hit. With live DJ’s, prizes and raffles; they might just make running bearable. 

Perth

For the sleepers, fireworks are at 9pm (best viewed from Yagan Square or Perth Cultural Centre). Later, another round at midnight (Yagan Square, Perth Cultural Centre, Northbridge Piazza and William Street)

Unfortunately, many restrictions are in place for our Perth celebrators. 

Bars and restaurants are open for seated dining only. Dancing has been banned so you’ll just have to tap your feet at the table. 

Adelaide 

Similar to Perth, showing off your moves on D-floor is banned. But, the ‘Light Up’ New Year’s event in the CBD will feature live music with fireworks at 9:30pm and at midnight. 

Hobart

Fireworks will be launching at 9:30pm and midnight.  Celebrations are  around the waterfront for the annual Taste of Summer and wine festival. 

Some other great spots to view the fireworks from are Mount Wellington, Mount Nelson Reserve and Lookout, Sandy Park and Clarence. 

Canberra

Canberra’s display will be blasting from the east, west and central basins of the lake. 

Food trucks, restaurants and bars will be open to encourage people to watch the lights from the shores of the lake. 

However, it is being encouraged to wear a mask when you are not eating or drinking. 

Though there are no main stage performances, there will be singers and circus troupes roaming the lake to entertain. 

Darwin

Though it seems unfathomable to many, Darwin has no restrictions in place. So in short, the party is on! 

The main event will be at the Darwin Waterfront, with fireworks at 9pm and midnight. The event was meant to feature The Veronicas, but have unfortunately had to pull out. However, Amy Shark will still be frontlining with plenty of other fantastic acts. 

Restaurants and clubs are allowing dancing. But, venues must have a COVID-19 management plan and patrons must check-in.

Get unlimited access to the coverage that shapes our culture.
to Rolling Stone magazine
to Rolling Stone magazine