Wondering what’s happening around Sydney and the North Shore for Australia Day in 2026? Enjoy a long weekend kicking off on Saturday 24 to Monday 26 January, and celebrate at one of these amazing events.
Australia Day is a day to reflect on our past, accept the truth of our history, respect that we all have a contribution to make to the Story of Australia and celebrate being part of a diverse and multicultural nation.
There are many ways to celebrate Australia Day on Monday 26 January. Here is a lowdown on events happening on the North Shore, the city and nearby suburbs. Take your pick and have a memorable day with the family!
Australia Day events on the North Shore
- Australia Day Picnic, Lane Cove
- Australia Day at The Canopy
- Australia Day Celebrations at the Concourse, Chatswood
- Australia Day 2026 at Fagan Park
- Shannon Noll Live on Australia Day Eve, Hornsby RSL
- Ku-ring-gai Aquatic Centre Pool Party
- Hornsby Leisure Aquatic Centre Pool Party
- Australia Day at West Pymble Bicentennial Club
Australia Day Events in Sydney
- Darling Harbour
- Dawn Reflection, Sydney Opera House
- Australia Day Live, Sydney Opera House
- Air Force Roulettes Flying Display Over Sydney Harbour
- Harbourfest
- The Rocks
- Australia Day Mega Kidz Zone
- Wulgulora Morning Ceremony, Barangaroo Reserve
- Yabun Festival
Australia Day events beyond the North Shore
Australia Day Events for 2026: North Shore
Australia Day Picnic, Lane Cove
Celebrate Australia Day in Lane Cove with a special program of local live music and film screenings. Bring your own picnic rug and get comfy on the green.
- Where: The Canopy and Lane Cove Plaza
- When: Monday 26 January, 10am – 8pm
- More information.
Australia Day Celebrations at The Concourse
Join the Mayor and Councillors of Willoughby City in celebrating Australia Day at The Concourse.
Welcome new citizens to Willoughby, hear a keynote speech from Australia Day ambassador Dr Saba Vasefi, congratulate local Australia Day award winners, including the Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Environmental Citizen and the Culture and Community Award.
Acknowledgment to Country by the Diramu Aboriginal Dance and Didgeridoo group and performances by the Willoughby Band and Australian Institute of Performing Arts.
Allocated seats for invited attendees with public seating in back rows of the Theatre on a first come first serve basis.
- Where: The Concourse Chatswood
- When: Monday 26 January, 9.30am to 11.30am
- visitchatswood.com.au
Ku-ring-gai Aquatic Centre Pool Party
The Ku-ring-gai Fitness & Aquatic Centre will host a pool party including a BBQ, face painting, inflatables and poolside DJ.
Entry by gold coin donation. No bookings required.
This event is assisted by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council.
- Where: Ku-ring-gai Fitness & Aquatic Centre, Prince of Wales Drive, West Pymble
- Cost: Gold coin donation. No bookings required.
- When: Monday 26 January, 1pm-5pm
- krg.nsw.gov.au
Hornsby Leisure and Aquatic Centre Pool Party
Cool off with a dip at the Hornsby Aquatic and Leisure Centre and have fun on their giant inflatables from 10.30am-2.30pm.
Children under 13 years must be accompanied by an adult, pool users must follow condition of entry rules.
- Where: Hornsby Leisure & Aquatic Centre
- Cost: Free
- When: Monday 26 January, 10.30am-2.30pm.
- hornsby.nsw.gov.au
Australia Day 2026 at Fagan Park
Bring your picnic blanket and head to beautiful Fagan Park for a fun-filled Australia Day celebration featuring live performances, delicious food trucks, local heritage displays and plenty of water play to keep kids cool.
Families can enjoy a slip ’n’ slide, dunk tank, bubble machines and roving entertainment, alongside a full stage program including the Citizenship Ceremony, Gawura Cultural Immersions, The Funky Monkeys and The Lily Guerrero Band.
The Friends of Fagan Heritage Area will also be onsite from 10am–4pm, offering a chance to explore heritage vehicles, Netherby Homestead, blacksmithing, gardens and more — with BBQ food, lamingtons and classic country charm.
- Where: Fagan Park Hornsby
- When: Monday 26 January, 10.30am-2.30pm
- More information
Shannon Noll Live on Australia Day Eve, Hornsby RSL
The Australia Day long weekend just got more awesome! Shannon Noll is coming to Hornsby RSL, from 6.30pm on 25 January.
There is no more Aussie way to spend Australia Day Eve than singing along as Shannon Noll belts out his iconic homegrown hits including What About Me, Drive, Lift, Learn to Fly and more. Fans can upgrade to a VIP Meet & Greet at Level One Bar from 6.30pm with drinks, canapés, a Q&A, photo opportunity and VIP concert access, before the supports kick off from 8pm. This is one epic show not to be missed.
- Where: Hornsby RSL Club, High Street, Hornsby
- When: Sunday 25 January, 6:30pm – 10:30pm
- More information
Australia Day Events for 2026: Sydney
Dawn Reflection
- Where: Sydney Opera House
- When: Monday 26 January, 5.20am-5.40am
- More information
WulgulOra Morning Ceremony, Barangaroo Reserve
Following the Dawn Reflection, on our national day, we come together for WugulOra in Barangaroo Reserve.
This moving ceremony symbolises how we can embrace each other, united in a spirit of togetherness.
WugulOra, meaning “One Mob” in the local Gadigal language, represents all of us and the future of a united Australia. It is a time for reflection, understanding, and reconciliation as we gather as a nation proudly anchored by timeless rituals and beliefs.
WugulOra celebrates the culture of the Gadigal people of the Eora nation, told through dance, song, and storytelling. The ceremony features a smoking ceremony performed over countless generations, offering cleansing and healing for new beginnings and fresh inspiration for our future.
Aboriginal artists showcase the richness and significance of their culture with a blend of historical and modern expression. The ceremony also includes speeches from the NSW Governor, NSW Premier, and an address from the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council.
The Australian National Anthem is sung in Eora and English as we stand together in the early morning light of 26 January, joined by our history and shared future.
WugulOra is broadcast on NITV, SBS, and SBS On Demand on Monday, 26 January, at 7:30am.
- Where: Walumil Lawns, Barangaroo Reserve
- When: Monday 26 January, 7.30 – 8.30am
- More information
Australia Day Sydney Harbour Events
Since it first launched in 1977, the Ferrython has grown into a true Australian classic – a much-loved community tradition and one of the most iconic events on Sydney Harbour.
This is no ordinary race. Four of Sydney’s beloved Emerald Class ferries go bow-to-bow, surging across the harbour toward the ultimate finish line – the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Follow the Official Australia Day in NSW social channels to stay updated on ticket releases and event news – and secure your place in this truly Australian experience.
- When: Monday 26 January, 12.10pm-12.30pm
- Where: Sydney Harbour
- More information
Air Force Roulettes Flying Display Over Sydney Harbour
An unforgettable spectacle unfolded this Australia Day as the Roulettes took centre stage in Sydney.
For 13 thrilling minutes, the Royal Australian Air Force’s (RAAF) elite aerobatic display team, composed of some of the nation’s most skilled pilots, showcased their awe-inspiring flying prowess over Sydney Harbour.
Onlookers watched in amazement as the daredevil aviators pushed their aircraft to the limits, executing jaw-dropping loops, rolls, and high-G turns. Flying at astonishing speeds of up to 685km/h and as low as 200 feet, the Roulette flyers endured up to six times the force of gravity, delivering an adrenaline-pumping experience.
The aerial acrobatics in the skies above Sydney Harbour on 26 January were exhilarating. Prime viewing locations for the looping, barrel-rolling action included Circular Quay, Hicksons Road Reserve, the Overseas Passenger Terminal, and the Sydney Opera House.
- Where: Prime viewing locations include Circular Quay, Hicksons Road Reserve, Overseas Passenger Terminal and the Sydney Opera House
- Time: Monday 26 January, 12pm-12.10pm
- australiaday.com.au
Australia Day Live, Sydney Opera House
Set against the iconic Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, Australia Day Live is a concert to inspire our national spirit.
It’s an unforgettable celebration of music, lights and dazzling fireworks to entertain the nation. Bring your family and friends to this free concert on the steps of the Sydney Opera House.
An all-star line-up of Australian artists will entertain you. You’ll meet much-loved characters and hear stories that capture the diversity of our cultures, lifestyles and the quirkiness that makes Australia so unique.
Tickets are free, limited and released on Wednesday 14 January 2026.
If you don’t get a ticket or can’t make it in person, Plan B is to watch it live on ABC TV and ABC iView.
Tickets for Australia Day Live 2026 will be released in January. Tickets will be free and limited! Ensure you stay tuned and follow the Official Australia Day in NSW social media channels for ticket announcements and updates.
- Where: Sydney Opera House
- When: Monday 26 January, 7.30pm – 9.30pm
- More information
Australia Day Mega Kidz Zone
Bring the whole family to Circular Quay for a huge day of free fun on Australia Day — all just a short stroll from trains, buses and ferries.
Inside the Overseas Passenger Terminal, the arrivals hall transforms into the Mega Kidz Zone, a massive interactive arcade packed with activities for kids of all ages. Entry is completely free, and families can enjoy hours of entertainment.
Bounce your way through the huge inflatable obstacle course, see if you can survive the Wipe Out Challenge or take on your mates on some fun arcade games.
New for 2026 is our Lego Zone facilitated by Bricks 4 Kids, located inside the Overseas Passenger Terminal Kidz Zone. This addition to the program provides a creative space for kids to build and learn.
One of the most popular attractions returns in 2026: Wheelchair Basketball, run by Wheelchair Sports NSW/ACT. Kids and adults can jump in a chair, shoot hoops and learn about adaptive sport, inclusion and the Paralympics.
Outside, the whole area comes alive with roaming street performers, and a DJ in the food court — plus plenty of food trucks for easy family meals. It’s also one of the best vantage points to watch the harbour action throughout the day.
On the MCA Lawn, the Fun in the Sun Zone offers even more free activities from 10:30am to 4pm, run by Surf Life Saving NSW there are games, colouring in and free sunscreen for all!
- Where: Overseas Passenger Terminal, Circular Quay
- When: Monday 26 January, 10.30am-4pm
- More information
Australia Day on Darling Harbour
Everyone soaked up the summer sun with pedal boat rides on the harbour, caught live screenings of the Australian Open and enjoyed a variety of sports activities for everyone.
In the afternoon, Aussie-themed roving performers, including seagulls and bouncy kangaroos, brought excitement for all to enjoy. The Water Play area featured the ‘Sync or Swim’ performance in the mid-morning, followed by a Ukebebe ukulele sing-along session in the early afternoon.
Visitors enjoyed delicious meals at one of over 150 dining spots. From authentic Asian cuisine in Darling Square to relaxed alfresco dining in Darling Quarter and classic Aussie seafood at Cockle Bay Wharf, there was something for everyone.
At the end the day, the Warner Bros Outdoor Cinema at Village Green screened family-friendly films from 5pm to 11pm. This exciting line-up of entertainment and activities wasn’t to be missed!
- Where: Darling Harbour
- When: Monday 26 January
- More information
Harbourfest
The water, the sky, and the foreshore all burst into life as the world’s most iconic harbour becomes a stage for a full day of free events. From on-water spectacles to shoreline celebrations and aerial displays, there’s something for everyone.
A highlight for many is the much-loved Ferrython, where four Emerald Class ferries go head-to-head in a spirited race to the ultimate finish line – the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It’s fast, colourful, and guaranteed to thrill.
Spectators can cheer on the ferries from some of Sydney’s best free vantage points, including Mary Booth Reserve, Circular Quay, Hickson Road Reserve, Campbells Cove, the Royal Botanic Garden, the Sydney Opera House, and Mrs Macquarie’s Chair.
Whether you’re watching from the water or settling in with family and friends along the foreshore, Australia Day on Sydney Harbour delivers unforgettable moments for everyone.
- Where: Circular Quay
- When: Monday 26 January, 10.30am-4pm
- More information
Australia Day at The Rocks
Head down to The Rocks to commemorate Australia Day under the summer sun and soak up the best of Sydney Harbour.
The day begins with Dawn Reflection at sunrise, then from 10.00am The Rocks Markets burst into life with stalls of local fashion, jewellery, crafts and irresistible eats from around the globe. Next, the Midday Salute fills the harbour with military and cultural displays, followed by the Ferrython, Harbour Parade and Tall Ships Race.
The afternoon brings the Working Harbour Vessel Display and the historic Australia Day Regatta, rounding out a vibrant celebration of community, culture and national pride at The Rocks.
Grab a snack (or several), meander between the stalls, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy free live music drifting through the laneways. It’s the perfect stop for tourists exploring the city and locals rediscovering their own backyard.
- Where: Corner of George Street and Playfair Street, The Rocks
- When: Monday 26 January, 10am – 5pm
- australiaday.com.au
Yabun Festival
Yabun Festival takes place annually on January 26th and is the largest community-led one-day festival of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. It was founded in 2001 as a continuation of the very first Survival Day events held during the 1990s.
Yabun is 100% Aboriginal-owned and operated through Gadigal Information Service (GIS).
- Where: Victoria Park
- When: Monday 26 January, 10am – 6pm
- More information
Australia Day Events on the Northern Beaches
There are plenty of Australia Day events still taking place across the Northern Beaches over the Australia Day long weekend. There will be pool parties, performances, open air cinema, Australian made markets, and more.
- Australia Day Eve Open Air Cinema: Sunday 25 January, 5.30pm-8.30pm, Lakeside Park, North Narrabeen
- Australian Made Markets: Sunday 19 January, 8am-2pm, Village Park, Mona Vale
- Splash into Australia Day: Monday 26 January, 1pm-4pm, Manly Aquatic Centre, Kenneth Road, Manly
- Australia Day Pool Party at Warringah Aquatic Centre: Monday 26 January, 9am-12pm, Warringah Aquatic Centre, Aquatic Drive, Frenchs Forest
- Australia Day 2026 at Manly Beach: Monday 26 January, 10am-2pm, Manly Beach
- Australia Day 2026 at Dee Why Beach: Monday 26 January, 10am-2pm, Dee Why Beach
Australia Day Events in Ryde
Ryde’s Australia Day Backyard BBQ
Australia Day is a day to reflect on our past, accept the truth of our history, respect that we all have a contribution to make to the Story of Australia and celebrate being part of a diverse and multicultural nation.
Come down to Meadowbank Park this Australia Day, Monday 26 Jan to join in on our Australia Day Celebrations with the rest of the community.
The kids can enjoy free craft activities, including cookie making workshop, free face painting and enjoy the live entertainment.
At the skatepark there will be free skate workshops for the kids, as well as other free sports activities for the family to enjoy.
Don’t forget to grab a sausage sizzle from our community run BBQ or tuck into some of the delicious meals provided by our food trucks.
At the end of the evening, you can sit down and enjoy the fireworks at 9pm.
- Where: Meadowbank Park, Constitution Rd, Meadowbank
- When: Monday 26 January
- ryde.nsw.gov.au
Australia Day Events in Parramatta
Parramatta Park
This Australia Day, join us in Parramatta Park for a vibrant evening of live music, family-friendly entertainment and the much-loved Balloon Glow – a spectacular hot air balloon illumination lighting up the night sky.
Set in the heart of Parramatta Park, this free event invites everyone to come together, celebrate community and enjoy a shared moment of colour, warmth and wonder.
As we gather, we also reflect. Join us as we recognise the 125th anniversary of Federation, reflecting on the moment Australia came together as a nation.
While we celebrate, we acknowledge the 65,000+ years of continuous culture of First Nations people and their ongoing connection to Country.
- Where: Parramatta Park Macquarie Street, Parramatta
- When: Monday 26 January, 4pm-9.30pm
- https://atparramatta.com/australia-day
Australia Day Events in The Hills District
Australia Day 2026 at Bella Vista Farm & Waves Fitness & Aquatic Centre
The biggest event on The Hills Shire calendar is back in 2026 with a bumper lineup locked in for Council’s Australia Day celebrations on January 26.
The day will kick off at Waves Fitness and Aquatic Centre which will host its signature pool party from 10am – 3pm, featuring a live DJ, free sausage sizzle (limited availability), and roving entertainment. Normal entry fees to Waves apply.
Then, The Hills Shire’s blockbuster event, Fun at the Farm, will kick off from 4:30pm at Bella Vista Farm (entry is free) with performances from 2025 Australian Idol Winner Marshall Hamburger, Sesame Street characters, and crowd favourites La Fiesta Sound System.
Local performance groups will perform on the Community Stage, and attendees will enjoy FREE face painting, activities, and roving entertainment. Amusement rides and a bite to eat from the variety of on-site food trucks will be available for purchase. The night will end with a fantastic fireworks finale.
- Where: 44 Mileham Avenue, Baulkham Hills & Bella Vista Farm
- When: Monday 26 January, 10am-3pm
- thehills.nsw.gov.au
Looking for more outdoor places to spend Australia Day?
- Best child-friendly beaches near Sydney’s North Shore
- Best picnic spots by the water
- Best Sydney Aqua Parks and waterslides for summer fun
- 10 Outdoor Spaces on the North Shore to explore with kids
- 15 child-friendly bushwalks on the North Shore
The events featured in this guide are organised by third parties, with details sourced directly from their official websites at the time of publication. While we strive for complete accuracy, last-minute cancellations may occur. To avoid disappointment, we recommend verifying event details on the official websites provided before attending.
