14 December 2023
14 mins Read
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 conversation with a kangaroo.
Whatever your preference, we have some fabulous suggestions to help you welcome 2024.
Where: Sydney Opera House, NSW
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 midnight fireworks display.
There will also be a roving feast of canapés, free-flowing French Champagne, premium wines and food stations. Expect some bangers on a ‘mixtape’ curated by some of the city’s superstar DJs, too.
Tickets: Tickets are on their third release, priced at $1150. This is an 18+-only event.
Watch the NYE fireworks from the Sydney Opera House.
Where: Royal Botanic Garden, NSW
The Royal Botanic Garden in Sydney is the place to be this New Year’s Eve. With uninterrupted views of 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.
If you’d rather not pack a basket, there will be bars with a selection of beverages and snacks, plus a variety of food trucks. Although tickets aren’t required, there is an event capacity of 1000, so first in best dressed.
Tickets: Free entry; there are no tickets required for this event.
Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden offers prime NYE views. (Image: Destination NSW)
Where: Luna Park, 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 sets this party apart is its extracurriculars. Expect unlimited access to rides, live DJs and Sydney’s first-ever underwater bar. Sip on crafted cocktails and devour delicious bites before letting loose on rides and dancing until the clock strikes 12.
Tickets: General admission (GA) tickets are priced at $299. This is an 18+-only event.
Luna Park will host an epic 18+ New Year’s Eve Harbour Party. (Destination NSW)
Where: W Sydney, NSW
W Sydney‘s two-storey bar, 29/30, is hosting a hot Rooftop Party to ring in the New Year. If you’ve already witnessed the fireworks in Sydney Harbour, why not experience the Darling Harbour skyline this year instead?
Your ticket will give you exclusive access to level 29 with DJs, a four-hour beverage package, free-flowing Veuve Clicquot Champagne, canapés, a live hibachi grill and an epic oyster station.
Tickets: GA tickets are priced at $550 per person and are all-inclusive. This is strictly an 18+-only event.
Celebrate New Year’s Eve at 29/30, W Sydney’s rooftop bar.
Where: Glenworth Valley, NSW
Ringing in the New Year for 2024, Lost Paradise returns with an all-star lineup. Taking over Glenworth Valley, the mammoth line-up of international superstars and fierce local talent includes Flume, Dom Dolla, The Jungle Giants, PNAU, Jayda G, and loads more.
This year, Lost Paradise will offer 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: For a three-day GA, you’ll pay $649. For a four-day GA, you’ll pay $679. Camping and glamping come at an additional cost. Lost Paradise is strictly 18+.
Where: The Gantry, NSW
For those who want to see in the New Year with a gourmet dining experience, award-winning restaurant The Gantry will be hosting three unique dining sessions across the final evening of 2023.
The first session (5.30pm) includes a welcome Champagne and a three-course set menu directly on Sydney Harbour. The second session (7pm) includes a welcome Champagne, a five-course set menu and views of the 9pm fireworks. The third session (8.30pm) includes welcome Champagne, canapés, views of the 9pm fireworks and a seated dining experience with a five-course set menu.
Tickets: First session – $250; Second session – $390; Third session – $599; Third session Pier Party add-on – $190.
The Gantry will give you a NYE offering to remember.
Where: Alpine Bar, NSW
If you’re down south this NYE, you won’t miss out on the fun thanks to the Summer Music Series. Hosted at Alpine Bar, one of the coolest hangouts in Thredbo, you’ll be treated to more than just music.
Catch legendary guitarist Steve Edmonds and his band rock the stage with their classic guitar anthems, plus covers of Australia’s best hits. Cascades Restaurant in Thredbo will also host a five-course New Year’s Eve dinner accompanied by a three-hour bottomless beverage package.
Tickets: Free entry for the Summer Music Series; tickets are not required for this event. Dinner at Cascades is $199 a head.
Enjoy live music this NYE at Alpine Bar in Thredbo.
Where: Fable Melbourne, Vic
Fable Melbourne in the city’s East End is hosting two different kinds of NYE celebrations this year. Fable is one of Melbourne’s best bars, known as a favourite among locals and tourists alike.
Guests can either sit down for dinner with the NYE Sunset Dinner Experience (5pm – 8pm) or dance the night away at the NYE Champagne & Fireworks Rooftop Party (9pm – late). Both events offer standing and booth services.
Tickets: NYE Sunset Dinner Experience – $360 for a minimum of two people or from $720 for booths; NYE Champagne and Fireworks Rooftop Party – $250 per person for standing service or from $1200 for booths.
Fable has panoramic views of the Melbourne skyline.
Where: Arbory, Vic
You’re in for a night to remember this New Year’s if you it up Arbory’s Tulum Jungle Party on the iconic Yarra River in Melbourne.
The party is inspired by Mexico’s tropical jungles on the Yucatán Coast, so prepare for a night of eating, drinking, dancing and music a la Mexico. There will also be a magnificent fireworks display over the river, along with live DJs to keep you dancing throughout the night.
Tickets: Arbory Bar and Eatery costs $185 per person, while general admission to the Afloat Main Deck is $250 per person.
Spend NYE on Melbourne’s Yarra River this year.
Where: Port Melbourne, Vic
What better way to start 2024 than with the event voted Melbourne’s best New Year’s Eve party? The H2oh Summer Party is one of the capital’s most exciting and renowned NYE events on the waterfront.
The party will take place across two venues, Waterfront on the Pier and Generations, and offer views of both Port Phillip Bay and Melbourne’s fireworks display. Treat yourself to the all-inclusive six-and-a-half-hour drinks package for a truly unforgettable night.
Tickets: GA tickets are priced at $160 while Level 1 Platinum will cost $210.
Where: Barunah Plains, Vic
Beyond The Valley is back for its eighth year and promising a line-up like never before. Witness RÜFÜS DU SOL, Central Cee, DMA’s, G Flip, Kelis and so many more light up the stage and bring in the New Year.
There will also be a live podcast stage where you can see Love Island fan favourites, Anna and Matt with their podcast Where’s your head at? Other popular pods to look out for include In Bed With Georgia Grace, Flopstars and Yarning Up.
Tickets: NYE festival entry – $243.57; Two-day festival entry – $343.57; Three-day festival entry – $403.57; Four-day festival entry – $443.57; VIP add-ons, camping, bus passes and LUX coach passes all come at an additional cost.
Beyond The Valley is back for its eighth year. (Image: Duncographic)
Where: W Melbourne, Vic
Welcome 2024 with a sumptuous nine-course Ōmisoka dinner paired with a free-flowing beverage package at Warabi, W Melbourne. Upon arrival, enjoy delectable canapés and get the celebrations started with a Champagne toast.
Throughout the night, you’ll devour tsukidashi with New Zealand scampi, finger lime and tartlet, followed by shirumono with coral trout, knob, somen and sencha.
Tickets: $380 per person.
You’ll be treated to delectable dishes at Warabi.
Where: W Brisbane, Qld
You’re invited to bid farewell to 2023 in style with front-row seats to the fireworks at this unmatched Brissie location. Dine at the newly opened The Lex and be among the first to ring in its New Year celebrations.
Indulge in a night of sumptuous food and drinks while listening to the sweet sounds of live music. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Brisbane River in one of two seating sessions – the first at 5pm (two-hour seating) and the second at 8pm (three-hour seating).
Tickets: First seating – $179 (adults), $150 (teens 13–17), $60 (children 4–12); Second seating – $270 (adults), $150 (teens 13–17), $60 (children 4–12).
The Lex will leave your sated and satisfied this NYE. (Image: Markus Ravik)
Where: Moreton Bay, Qld
More than 2000 artists will descend on the makeshift village of Woodfordia in Moreton Bay for Queensland’s frivolously folky Woodford Folk Festival.
And it’s not just the roster of experimental folk musicians that inspires campers to get their groove on at the annual gathering. This year, the buzz is about everything from inspired conversations to live folk music and opportunities for reflection.
Tickets: There are a variety of ticketing options, including children’s prices, season passes and camping fees. However, the usual adult prices are $140 for online purchases on the day of the festival and $150 at the gate.
Meet groovy characters at the Woodford Folk Festival. (Image: Lachlan Brown)
Where: Brisbane Showgrounds, Qld
Brisbane’s Wildlands Festival is the place to be this NYE. With Luude, The Jungle Giants, RÜFÜS DU SOL, Central Cee, Boo Seeka and more taking to the stage, Wildlands is going to be off the charts.
Featuring world-class production, iconic stage design, decor and arts, Wildlands offers festivalgoers a day of immersive music and arts escapism unlike any other. The will also be food trucks and fully stocked bars, so what are you waiting for?
Tickets: Tickets are on their fifth release, priced at $219.90. This is an 18+-only event.
Grab your mates and head to Wildlands. (Image: @zennieshia)
Where: Princes Wharf, Tas
Taste of Summer is Hobart’s week-long festival from 27 December to 6 January (excluding 2 and 3 January). The event will host around 80 stallholders showcasing the state’s finest seafood, cheese, wine and other delicious produce – and of course, there will be fireworks!
Come New Year’s Eve, Aussie legend Jon Stevens will ring in 2024 on Hobart’s Waterfront at Princes Wharf No. 1, with sets from his sold-out national Noiseworks and INXS Collection tour.
Tickets: GA adult – $88; GA child (7–15) – $30.85; GA concession – $77.80; children six and under – free.
Where: The Tasman, Tas
Head to Peppina at The Tasman, A Luxury Collection Hotel in Hobart for a NYE to remember. Indulge in an enticing four-course set menu created by Peppina’s culinary director Massimo Mele, who promises to take guests on a gourmet adventure.
After enjoying dinner and a complimentary glass of Tasmanian sparkling wine, you’ll be invited to the outdoor terrace for a breathtaking display of midnight fireworks over Salamanca’s waterfront.
Tickets: $229 per person.
Peppina will take care of you this New Years. (Image: Adam Gibson)
Where: Royal Park, Tas
This NYE, Tasmania’s Royal Park in Launceston will have some of 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 2024 with family and friends.
Alongside the epic beverage line-up, there will be also entertainment and fireworks (both at 6 pm and midnight) for late-night revellers looking to stay out to greet 2024.
Tickets: GA (second release) –$33.10; VIP 18+ admission (second release) – $160.60; Children (5–17) –$12.70.
Get your beer on this New Year’s at Royal Park, Launceston.
Where: Ritz-Carlton Perth, WA
Guests can see out 2023 with a decadent six-course menu at the Ritz-Carlton Perth’s Hearth this New Year’s Eve. Dinner promises local Western Australian ingredients like cured snapper, Southwest marron and dry-aged Wagin duck.
Make sure to leave room for pre-dessert (yes, it’s a thing) and dessert, which features flavours of roasted pineapple and Bahen & Co. chocolate. If you’re looking to elevate your experience, opt to enhance the curated menu with paired wines.
Tickets: For the six-course menu, you’ll pay $275 per person. Add paired wines for $145 per person.
Guests can see out 2023 and welcome 2024 at Hearth.
Where: Claremont Showground, WA
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 2023 with your hips swinging.
Across nine epic stages, 40 DJs will play their best sets into the night. From a silent disco to an après-ski-themed stage with (fake) snow falling from the sky and almost everything in between, you’ll be spoilt for choice with Snack.
Tickets: Final release sales are on now, priced at $155, so get in quick before you miss out! Upgrade to the VIP Area for an additional $66.17.
Where: Elder Park, SA
On the southern bank of the River Torrens, you’ll find Elder Park, one of the best places to be this New Year’s Eve in South Australia. This NYE experience in Adelaide is perfect for quality time with loved ones before the year rounds out.
There will be food and beverage offerings, live music and a family fun zone to keep little ones entertained. The festivities kick off at 5 pm – nice and early for families with kids – with both 9 pm and midnight fireworks displays.
Tickets: Free entry; tickets are not required for this event.
Settle in at Adelaide’s Elder Park for New Years. (Image: Michael Waterhouse)
Where: Stamford Plaza Adelaide, SA
If you want to dance your way into 2024, the NYE Disco Party at Stamford Plaza Adelaide has got your name written all over it. Dress up in your best disco fit and boogie to a live band belting classics all night long, including ABBA’s best hits.
Shake up your celebration with a drinks package upon arrival, and don’t forget to strike a pose in the photo booth. What better way to end 2023 than on the dancefloor?
Tickets: $199 per person and include a 4.5-hour beverage package and buffet dinner. Strictly 18+ only.
Where: Darwin Waterfront, NT
Say farewell to 2023 at Darwin Waterfront with The Corbs, Liv Heyer, Melanie Gray Duo, Bob Fleet Orchestra and more talented acts treating you to some good tunes.
This New Year’s Eve event in Darwin is free, so bring a picnic and relax on the grass with your nearest and dearest. The event kicks off at 3 pm, with fireworks displays at both 9 pm and at midnight.
Tickets: Free entry; tickets are not required for this event.
Start the New Year the right way at Darwin Waterfront.
Where: Lake Burley Griffin, ACT
For a vantage point away from the parties, head to the foreshore of Lake Burley Griffin in Canberra to bring in 2024. You’ll witness the fireworks as they launch over the lake at 9 pm, 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.
Watch the fireworks over Lake Burley Griffin in Canberra.
You’ll find epic cycling trails, a vibrant dining scene, clutch of boutique wineries and a microbrewery with mountain vistas just three-and-a-half h...
There’s no shortage of things to do in Australia. Spring has sprung and as we're collectively coming out of hibernation, lots is happening around A...
Everything you need to know about the Hilton in Australia, from the staff at Australian Traveller Magazine. There are 7 Hilton hotels located in Au...
LEAVE YOUR COMMENT