24 incredible ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve

Still don’t have plans for New Year’s Eve? Here are 24 ways to farewell 2024.

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 with Champagne with loved ones at home, while others flock to designated firework zones with friends.

Many flee the city, hoping for nothing more than a quiet conversation around a firepit under the stars, while others are already fast asleep once the clock strikes midnight. Whatever your preference, here’s how you can ring in the new year, your way.

1. House of Splendour

Where: Sydney Opera House, NSW
When: 31 December, 8pm–1:30am

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

Kick things off with a feast of canapés, free-flowing French 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 its time for the fireworks.

Tickets: Tickets are priced at $1,200 per person. This is an 18+ only event.

2. NYE Sky Show

Where: Kiama Harbour, NSW
When: 31 December, 4pm–9:30pm

The NYE Sky Show is one of the best family-friendly ways to ring in the new year in NSW. Held in the beachside town of Kiama, the show promises a jam-packed program that everyone can enjoy, no matter their age.

From Eat Street and Sweet Street, where you can indulge in delicious snacks, to lawn games, live performances, roving entertainment, bangin’ DJs and, of course, fireworks at 9pm. There will also be a quiet, calm space for those with sensory needs.

3. Bennelong Lawn picnic

Where: Botanic Gardens of Sydney, NSW
When: 31 December, from 9am

The Botanic Gardens of Sydney is another prime place to be this New Year’s Eve. With uninterrupted views across Sydney Harbour, it’s the perfect spot to grab your favourite snacks (no BYO alcohol), spread a blanket and enjoy the sunset on Bennelong Lawn.

Gates will open at 9am for those keen to grab front-row seats and will be closed once capacity hits 1000. If you fail to nab a spot, head over to Fleet Steps (3000 capacity), the Tarpeian Lawn (3500 capacity) or Mrs Macquaries Point (10,000 capacity).

Tickets: Free entry; there are no tickets required for this event.

4. Lost Paradise

Where: Glenworth Valley, NSW
When: 28 December – 1 January

Ringing in the New Year for 2025, Lost Paradise returns with an all-star lineup. Taking over Glenworth Valley in NSW, the mammoth line-up of international superstars and fierce local talent includes Fisher, Tinashe, Royel Otis, Flight Facilities, AJ Tracey, and loads more.

But Lost Paradise offers so much more than its musical line-up. Need a break from the music or keen to try something new? Head to Shambhala Fields for yoga, talks, workshops, healing arts and Indigenous experiences. Or wander a diverse range of markets in the Lost Village. Also, just to add the icing on top, glamping tents are available to book.

Tickets: While four-day general admission tickets are sold out, three-day GA tickets are still available, priced at $510, including camping. Glamping comes at an additional cost. Lost Paradise is strictly an 18+ only event.

5. Summer Music Series

Where: Thredbo Alpine Hotel, NSW
When: 31 December, 7pm–12:30pm

If you’re down south this NYE, you won’t miss out on the fun thanks to the Summer Music Series at Thredbo Alpine Hotel. Hosted by Balter at the Alpine Bar, one of the coolest hangouts in town, you’ll be treated to more than just music.

After a day on the slopes, slink in for a drink and free live concert. With a limited capacity, it’s best to arrive early, as entry is on a first-come-first-served basis. Although the line-up is yet to be announced, previous years assure it’ll be a good one, so keep your ears pricked!

Tickets: Entry is free; tickets are not required for this event.

6. New Year’s Eve Harbour Party

Where: Luna Park, Sydney, NSW
When: 31 December, 6pm–2am

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 sets this party apart is its extracurriculars.

Expect unlimited access to rides, live DJs, crafted cocktails and delicious bites. As the clock strikes midnight, you can be whirling away on the Tango Train, up high on the ferris wheel, zooming on the Wild Mouse, or dancing into 2025 with your best mates.

Tickets: Second-release general admission tickets are priced at $249 per person. If you miss them, final-release tickets are priced at $299 per person. This is an 18+ only event.

7. Italo-Disco Party

Where: Afloat, Melbourne, Vic
When: 31 December, 6pm–1am

You’re in for a night to remember this New Year’s if you’re on Melbourne’s iconic Yarra River. Two of the city’s best restaurants, Afloat and Arbory Bar, are teaming up to throw an epic Italo-Disco-themed party.

Across both venues, guests can enjoy free-flowing drinks, delicious canapés, live entertainment and a fantastic view of the NYE fireworks. Don’t forget your boogie shoes, as some of Melbourne’s best DJs will be spinning decks well into the early hours.

Tickets: There are a number of packages available, ranging from $165 to $375, with early bird discounts available until 1 December (or sold out).

8. Beyond the Valley

Where: Barunah Plains, Vic
When: 28 December – 1 January

Beyond The Valley is back for its ninth year and promising a line-up like never before. Witness Fisher, Ice Spice, Sugababes, Chase & Status, Natasha Bedingfield and many more light up the stage and bring in the New Year.

Boogie under the Dance Dome. Join the conversation at the Podcast Stage. Explore Main Street’s food and market stalls. Take a yoga or meditation break at The Sanctuary. Cool off at the Beach Club. Whatever you do, you’ll welcome 2025 feeling oh so happy at Beyond the Valley.

Tickets: There are multiple festival passes to choose from that range in price. Multi-day festival entry starts at $399 for two days, while single-day tickets start at $199. Accommodation and vehicle passes come at an additional cost.

9. NYE on the Hill

Where: The Farm, South Gippsland, Vic
When: 30 December – 1 January

Head to Victoria’s charming Gippsland region to welcome 2025 and you’ll have your NYE plans sorted for years to come. Think good live music, camping with mates, rolling green hills, morning yoga, art installations and curated food trucks. This is NYE on the Hill.

Now in its 11th year, this three-day rural festival has sold out every single year – and it’s not hard to see why. Between its stellar line-up (Mallrat, Hockey Dad, Rum Jungle and more) and stunning setting, NYE on the Hill has garnered a loyal community. And once you join it, you’ll be keen to come back year after year.

Tickets: There are only final release tickets available now, priced at $351 (including camping), so get in quick!

10. Ōmisoka dinner at Warabi

Where: W Melbourne, Vic
When: 31 December, from 7pm

Farewell 2024 with a sumptuous 14-course Ōmisoka dinner at Warabi, W Melbourne. Upon arrival, cheers to the new year with a complimentary glass of Taittinger Champagne, followed by your choice of a wine, sake or non-alcoholic drink pairing package.

Throughout the night, you’ll be treated to fresh produce and seasonal ingredients tossed together with festive flavours. Think New Zealand scampi with finger lime, or Great Ocean Road duck with cherry and umeshu. Head home feeling sated and ready to welcome 2025.

Tickets: All-inclusive tickets are priced at $460 per person.

11. NYE at The Lex

Where: W Brisbane, Qld
When: 31 December, 5–6:15pm or 8pm – 9:30pm.

You’re invited to dine in style this New Year’s 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, it also offers first-row seats to the NYE fireworks.

Indulge in a night of sumptuous food and drinks while listening to live music and reminiscing on the year that has been. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Brisbane River in one of two seating sessions – the first from 5pm and the second from 8pm.

Tickets: First seating prices are $195 per person or $60 for children 4–12; Second seating prices are $210 or $60 for children 4–12.

12. Woodford Folk Festival

Where: Woodford, Qld
When: 27 December – 1 January

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

The vibrant event is held on 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 2025.

Tickets: There are a variety of ticketing options, including day tickets, season passes and camping fees. Prices start at $542 for season passes (excluding camping) and $140 for single-day tickets.

13. Wildlands Festival

Where: Brisbane Showgrounds, Qld
When: 31 December

Brisbane’s Wildlands Festival is the place to be this NYE in Queensland. Presented by Untitled and Beyond the Valley, it’s a chance for Brisbanites to witness the line-up that graced the stages in Barunah Plains.

Featuring world-class production, iconic stage design, decor and arts, Wildlands offers attendees a day of immersive music and arts escapism unlike any other. There will also be food trucks and fully stocked bars to keep you fuelled into 2025.

Tickets: Tickets are on their fourth and fifth releases, priced at $231.90 and $241.90 respectively. VIP tickets start at $321.90. This is an 18+ only event.

14. NYE Night Session

Where: Cali Beach Club, Surfers Paradise, Qld
When: 31 December, from 7pm

If your idea of NYE is partying into the early hours with your best friends, the NYE Night Session on the Gold Coast is for you. Set against the sparkling backdrop of Surfers Paradise, the Cali Beach Club event will host live performances and DJs all night long.

If you’d rather have an early one, head to one of two onsite restaurants for dinner and cocktails. If you’re planning to see the clock strike 12, book a poolside daybed, booth or cabana and settle in for the action. What’s more – guests will still be treated to the NYE fireworks!

Tickets: Ticket prices depend on what is booked. Prices start at $600 for a deck daybed (up to five guests) and range up to $10,000 for a private cabana (up to 20 guests).

15. Taste of Summer

Where: Princes Wharf, Hobart, Tas
When: 28 December – 4 January

Taste of Summer is a week-long festival that celebrates the incredible fresh produce and farm-to-plate practices that Tasmania is known for. This year, over 75 local producers will gather in Hobart to showcase the state’s finest – and of course, there will be fireworks!

Come New Year’s Eve, musical acts such as Hoodoo Gurus, VIXXIN and Hugo Bladel will ring in 2025 with epic live performances on Hobart’s Waterfront. And what’s even better – arrive between 6pm and 7pm and enjoy a complimentary glass of Clover Hill sparkling.

Tickets: General admission tickets are on their third release and are priced at $149.90. The fourth and fifth releases increase in price by $10 respectively. Packages and fast passes are also available.

Where: Royal Park, Launceston, Tas
When: 31 December, 4pm – 12:30am

This New Year’s Eve, the Royal Park in Launceston will host a range of local distillers offering the finest ciders, cocktails, craft beers and wines on offer as it transforms for the annual Launceston BeerFest. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the start of 2025 with family and friends.

Alongside the epic beverage line-up, there will be also live music, stand-up comedy shows, roving performers and kids’ entertainment. There will also be two colourful fireworks displays, the first at 9:30pm and the second at midnight.

Tickets: General admission tickets start at $33.10 for adults and $14.74 for children aged 5–17.

18. Taste of Hearth

Where: Ritz-Carlton Perth, WA
When: 31 December, 6pm – 9.30pm

See out 2024 with a decadent six-course menu at the Ritz-Carlton Perth’s Taste of Hearth this New Year’s Eve. Dinner promises local Western Australian flavours like cured snapper, southwest marron and dry-aged Wagin duck.

Make sure to leave room for dessert, a heavenly blend of coconut ganache, Red Centre lime and caramelised white chocolate. Although no fireworks can be seen from Hearth, dinner wraps up at 9:30pm, leaving plenty of time to get down to the waterfront for 12 o’clock.

Tickets: Tickets are priced at $295 per person.

19. Snack Festival

Where: Claremont Showground, WA
When: 31 December, from 8pm

One of Western Australia’s biggest NYE festivals is back this year, offering the perfect NYE plans for you and your mates. Snack Festival, held at the Claremont Showground in Perth, will have you sending off 2024 with your hips swinging.

Across nine epic stages, over 40 DJs will play their best sets into the night. Whether you opt for the silent disco, bush doof paint party or karaoke village, you’ll be having so much fun you won’t even notice the clock striking midnight.

Tickets: There are limited fifth-release tickets left (priced at $99.95). Then it’ll be down to final release sales are on now, priced at $149.90.

20. NYE Hollywood Party

Where: Stamford Plaza Adelaide, SA
When: 31 December, 7:30pm–1am

If you’re in the SA capital and want to dance your way into 2025, the NYE Hollywood Party at Stamford Plaza Adelaide has got your name written all over it. Dress up in your best red carpet-worthy fit and boogie to a live band belting classics all night long.

Before you hit the dancefloor, guests will sit down to a divine five-course dinner including langoustines with seared scallops, Suffolk lamb cutlets and Paris Brest for dessert. Each guest will also be treated to a four-hour beverage package.

Tickets: $219 per person. This is an 18+ only event.

21. Adelaide Strikers vs. Perth Scorchers

Where: Adelaide Oval, SA
When: 31 December, 7:15pm

Sports fans – this one’s for you. It may not be the most conventional way to ring in the new year, but it sure is one of the most fun. On New Year’s Eve 2024, the Adelaide Strikers will hit their home pitch to verse the Perth Scorchers in an epic twenty20 match that’ll have the crowd going crazy.

Once the game finishes, be sure to stick around for the on-field fireworks! Keen to carry on post-match? The New Year’s Eve bash promises to keep the party going after the bats and cricket balls are put away.

Tickets: Prices start at $25 and range up to $74, depending on seats.

22. NYE waterfront fireworks

Where: Darwin Waterfront, NT
When: 31 December, 5pm–12am

Say farewell to 2024 at Darwin Waterfront, with family festivities, a kids’ disco and a line-up of local acts delivering good tunes. Liquid Light, the sound, water and light installation currently on display in the capital, will also host a New Year’s Eve-themed show. 

This exciting community event is free for all to attend, so bring a picnic and relax on the grass with your nearest and dearest. The event kicks off at 3pm, with fireworks displays at both 9pm and midnight.

Tickets: Free entry; tickets are not required for this event.

23. NYE on Lake Burley Griffin

Where: Lake Burley Griffin, Canberra, ACT
When: 31 December, from 6pm

For the perfect vantage point of the NYE fireworks in Canberra, head to the foreshore of Lake Burley Griffin. Gather your friends and family to witness the stunning display as it launches over the lake at 9pm, without the rowdier crowds.

Feel free to pack a picnic or grab a bite to eat from local food vendors, plus enjoy live music and entertainment. Commonwealth Place, Regatta Point and Rond Terrace are also great options to keep in mind.

Tickets: Free entry; tickets are not required for this event.

24. Sky High at QT Lounge

Where: QT Canberra, ACT
When: 31 December, 8:3opm–12am

Score views across the entire city at QT Canberra’s New Year’s Eve soiree. Held in the hotel’s beautiful QT Lounge, you’ll be treated to a glass of Champagne on arrival, canapés crafted by executive chef, Michael Box, a four-hour beverage package and uninterrupted views of the fireworks.

A live DJ will help you keep the vibes high until midnight, setting the perfect tone for the new year. Guests are encouraged to dress to the nines and welcome 2025 in style.

Tickets: $195 per person. Strictly 18+ only.

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

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