Sydney’s New Year’s Eve fireworks are back and bigger than ever for 2025! As more than a million spectators prepare to gather around the Sydney Harbour foreshore, this year’s display promises to be one for the history books.
Here’s everything you need to know, from the best vantage points to transport tips, so you can ring in the New Year in style.
A Record-Breaking Display
With 9 tonnes of fireworks and over 4,500 hours of preparation, the 2025 Sydney Harbour fireworks are set to outshine previous years. Fireworks will light up the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and surrounding cityscape, offering a visual feast like no other.
For those unable to attend in person, the ABC TV and iview coverage kicks off at 8:30 pm with live performances from artists such as Robbie Williams and G Flip, leading up to the midnight countdown.
Best Vantage Points Around the Harbour
Ticketed Locations (Sold Out):
- Sydney Opera House Precinct: Opens at 7 am.
- Barangaroo Reserve: Opens at 12 pm.
Free Public Spots:
- Mrs Macquaries Point (Opens 10 am): A prime viewing spot with stunning harbour views.
- Tarpeian Lawn (Opens 9:30 am): Great for families.
- Observatory Hill Park (Opens 12 pm): Perfect for panoramic views.
- Bradfield Park (Opens 9:30 am): Excellent for those on the north side.
Insider Tip: Arrive early to secure your spot as capacity is expected to fill up fast. Alcohol is prohibited at most free locations, but select areas like Mrs Macquaries Point have licensed vendors.
Transport and Road Closures
Public transport will be the easiest way to navigate the city, with extra train, bus, and ferry services running throughout the night.
Key Transport Updates:
Trains:
- Circular Quay Station closed from 3 pm to midnight. Use Wynyard or St James instead.
- Milsons Point Station closed from 6 pm to midnight. Use North Sydney for access to the northern foreshore.
Buses:
- From 2 pm, buses will bypass Circular Quay, stopping at Hyde Park, QVB, and Town Hall.
Ferries:
- Limited services after 5:30 pm, so plan ahead if you’re arriving by water.
Driving? Think Again:
Road closures in the CBD begin as early as 4 am on New Year’s Eve, with major routes like the Harbour Bridge closed until 1:30 am on New Year’s Day. Parking will be scarce, so leave the car at home.
Family-Friendly Fireworks at 9 pm
The Calling Country Fireworks at 9 pm are perfect for families. Featuring music, dance, and illustrations by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, this display is a heartfelt tribute to Australia’s Indigenous culture.
What’s New This Year?
- Harbour Light Parade: Boats adorned with festive lights will create a dazzling display from 9:15 pm.
- Projections and Animations: Sydney Harbour Bridge will feature special lighting effects from 8:30 pm.
- Smoking Ceremony: Starting at 7:30 pm, this symbolic event will take place on vessels across the harbour.
Midnight Magic
The midnight fireworks will erupt across the city, illuminating Sydney Harbour in a 20-minute pyrotechnic extravaganza. The display will feature a soundtrack of iconic hits and custom lighting effects, cementing Sydney’s reputation as one of the world’s top destinations to welcome the New Year.
Getting Home After Midnight
Expect heavy crowds, but transport services will run until the early hours.
- North Shore: Catch buses from Wynyard.
- Eastern Suburbs: Services available from Hyde Park.
- Inner West and Parramatta: Use York Street bus stops.
- Ferries: Limited services post-midnight, so plan alternatives.
Pro Tip: Avoid the rush by waiting until after 1 am to leave the city.
Celebrate Responsibly
With over a million people gathering in one of the world’s most iconic locations, Sydney’s New Year’s Eve fireworks are more than a spectacle—they’re a tradition. Plan ahead, respect the rules, and enjoy the show as we welcome 2025 in style.
For more details and live updates, visit the official Sydney New Year’s Eve website.
Dylan Anderson
Dylan Anderson
