Wondering what’s happening around Sydney and the North Shore for Australia Day in 2024? Enjoy a long weekend kicking off on Friday 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 Friday 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
- This is Australia! Lane Cove Bush Kids
- Australia Day Picnic, Lane Cove
- Australia Day at The Canopy
- Australia Day Celebrations at the Concourse, Chatswood
- Fagan Park, Galston-Australia Day Open Day, Picnic and Car Display
- Summer Fair at St Ives Showgrounds
- Ku-ring-gai Aquatic Centre Pool Party
- Hornsby Leisure Aquatic Centre Pool Party
- Australia Day Concert at Hornsby Park
- Australia Day at West Pymble Bicentennial Club
Australia Day Events in Sydney
- Darling Harbour
- Vintage Bus Ride
- Dawn Reflection, Sydney Opera House
- Australia Day Live, Sydney Opera House
- Air Force Roulettes Flying Display Over Sydney Harbour
- 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 2024: North Shore
This is Australia! Lane Cove Bush Kids
Don’t miss This is Australia! Lane Cove Bush Kids at Tambourine Bay Park on Thursday 25 January from 9:45-11:15am.
School holiday activity 2 to 12 years. The continent of Australia is an ancient land with many interesting species of plants and animals. Come along to celebrate Australia Day by learning about some unusual Aussie animals, Kokey Koala and the bush Olympics and enjoy an Aussie bushwalk.
- Where: Tambourine Bay Park, Tambourine Bay Road, Riverview
- When: Thursday 25 January, 9.45am-11.15am
- Cost: $10.85
- northshoremums.com.au
Australia Day Picnic, Lane Cove
Kick-start your Australia Day at The Canopy as we welcome Lane Cove’s newest citizens in this special Citizenship Ceremony from 8:00am. Hear from special guest speakers and celebrate how we’re all part of the story. Head to Lane Cove Plaza or Wadanggari Park to soak up the sounds of talented Australian musicians from 10:00am.
- Where: The Canopy and Lane Cove Plaza
- When: Friday 26 January, 8am
- lanecove.nsw.gov.au
Australia Day Celebrations at The Concourse
Celebrate Australia Day with new Citizens of Willoughby and Local Award winners with Mayor Tanya and Councillors.
Join the Mayor and Councillors of Willoughby City in celebrating Australia Day at The Concourse.
Welcome our new citizens to Willoughby, hear a keynote speech from our Australia Day ambassador and congratulate our local Australia Day award winners, including the Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Environmental Citizen of the Year and the Community and Culture Development award.
Performances by the Willoughby Band and a local performers.
- Where: The Concourse Chatswood
- When: Friday 26 January, 9.30am to 11.30am
- willoughby.nsw.gov.au
Ku-ring-gai Aquatic Centre Pool Party
Head to the Pool Party at Ku-ring-gai Fitness & Aquatic Centre on Australia Day from 1-5pm. The Ku-ring-gai Fitness & Aquatic Centre will host a pool party including a BBQ, face painting and poolside DJ.
- Where: Ku-ring-gai Fitness & Aquatic Centre, Prince of Wales Drive, West Pymble
- Cost: Gold coin donation. No bookings required.
- When: Friday 26 January, 1pm-5pm
- northshoremums.com.au
Summer Fair at St Ives Showground
St Ives Summer Fair is back at St Ives Showground on Thursday 25 January and Friday 26 January from 10am-9pm.
They are offering a huge range of attractions and entertainment for a fun day out. You’ll find food trucks, carnival rides & games, animal nursery, open air circus, a kids movie night and Fireworks on Australia Day!
- Where: St Ives Showground, 450 Mona Vale Road, St Ives
- Cost: $2 entry
- When: Thursday 15 & Friday 26 January, 10am-9pm
- northshoremums.com.au
Hornsby Leisure and Aquatic Centre Pool Party
When you are ready for a dip, Hornsby Leisure & Aquatic Centre next to the park will have free entry from 1pm-4pm and lots of inflatable fun in the outdoor pool! For pool entry, please see the Aquatic Centre front desk. Capacity limits will apply.
- Where: Hornsby Leisure & Aquatic Centre
- Cost: Gold coin donation
- When: Friday 26 January, 1pm-4pm
Australia Day Concert at Hornsby Park
Head to Hornsby Park for a great line-up of artists for their Australia Day concert. Featuring Gawura Cultural Immersions, The Funky Monkeys and Lily Guerrero & Ban. BYO picnic rug for a great day outside. Food trucks, roaming entertainers and children’s activities, such as free face painting and inflatable basketball and soccer.
- Where: Hornsby Park
- When: Thursday 26 January, 12pm-5pm
- More info: northshoremums.com.au
Fagan Park, Galston – Australia Day Open Day, Picnic & Car Display
Explore the Gardens of Many Nations, which covers 10 hectares and has 11 themed gardens, including Japanese, Dutch, Chinese and Mediterranean. Learn more about local history at Netherby Cottage, the original Fagan family homestead, and the adjoining museum.
Take in the local bushland along a short bushwalking trail. Learn about sustainable gardening at the Eco Garden. Join PMEA with your historic vehicle to display. There will also be a Feature Parade drive of vehicles through the grounds for the public to enjoy, of which PMEA will be able to participate.
Meet outside Bunnings Belrose on Mona Vale Rd, before slip road to Narabang Way. Meet 8.45am -Depart 9.00 am. Approximately 1 hour drive via Pymble, Thornleigh and Cherrybrook with ETA at Fagan Park 10.00am Alternatively, make your own way directly to the event in your own time.
- Where: Bunnings Belrose/Fagan Park Hornsby
- Cost: $5 per vehicle, bookings required
- When: Friday 26 January, 10am-3pm
- northshoremums.com.au
Australia Day Events for 2024: Sydney
Australia Day Sydney Harbour Events
Don’t miss the Ferrython race, one of Australia’s most iconic events, when Sydney ferries race from Circular Quay to Shark Island and back to a glorious finish at the Sydney Harbour Bridge. For a bird’s-eye view of the race, take part in a special Ferrython BridgeClimb. You’ll also be delighted by the Yacht and Boat Ballet — a unique spectacle where yachts, tug boats, jet skis and ferries move in choreographed motions on the harbour.
From 1pm, Sydney’s Tall Ships will lead a fleet of historic vessels from Bradley’s Head to the Harbour Bridge. Afterwards, the Australia Day Regatta has over 100 boats race around the harbour for a boating spectacle like no other.
- When: Friday 26 January, 10.45am-11.20am
- Where: Sydney Harbour
- northshoremums.com.au
Dawn Reflection
As the sun rises on Australia Day, the world-renowned Sydney Opera House sails will be illuminated with a spectacular Aboriginal artwork. First Nations at first light. Start the day with a reflective moment as the sun rises over Sydney Harbour on Gadigal land to honour the nation’s Traditional Custodians.
At dawn, the sails of the Sydney Opera House will be illuminated with an artwork that represents and celebrates Aboriginal history, culture and people. Everyone is encouraged to gather on the shores around the Opera House to pause, reflect and remember as the artwork is revealed on the nation’s most iconic canvas.
During the Dawn Reflection, the Australian National Flag and Australian Aboriginal Flag will be raised in unison on top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, in a symbol of unity, recognition and inclusion. 2024 will be the fourth year a projection has been illuminated on the sails at dawn, with the event growing in importance as a way of acknowledging Australia’s first peoples at first light.
In the first State, at first light, we recognise First Nations people. As the sun rises, connect with the world’s oldest living culture as First Nations artwork is projected on the Sydney Opera House and flags raised on the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The projection will coincide with both the Australian National Flag and Australian Aboriginal Flag being raised on top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge in a symbol of unity, recognition and inclusion. Since July 2022, the Australian Aboriginal Flag now flies permanently on the bridge beside the Australian National Flag.
- Where: Sydney Opera House
- When: Thursday 26 January, 5.15am-5.45am
- northshoremums.com.au
Wulgulora Morning Ceremony, Barangaroo Reserve
The WugulOra Morning Ceremony at Barangaroo Reserve is a reminder that Aboriginal people are the foundation of Australia’s story and caretakers of the world’s oldest continuous living culture.
Since its inception in 2003 (when it was called Woggan-ma-gule), this ancient smoking ceremony has cleansed the way for new beginnings and celebrated the Gadigal people of the Eora nation through music, dance, language, storytelling and ceremony.
It is held on Gadigal land year on January 26 and celebrates Aboriginal culture, with special performances by dancers and singers. Addresses will be given by dignitaries and the Australian National Anthem will be sung in English and Eora, the local Aboriginal language.
This ceremony and much of the Australia Day in NSW program is guided by Aboriginal representatives. It features many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists showcasing the richness and historical significance of their culture through modern and meaningful performances. The event is co-curated with the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council.
Everyone is welcome to attend, free of charge.
- Where: Walumil Lawns, Barangaroo Reserve
- When: Friday 26 January, 7.30 – 8.30am
- northshoremums.com.au
Air Force Roulettes Flying Display Over Sydney Harbour
Watch the Air Force Roulettes flying display over Sydney Harbour on Australia Day at midday! Turn your eyes to the sky to witness the nation’s top pilots perform jaw-dropping manoeuvres to mark our national day.
For 11 thrilling minutes, the Royal Australian Air Force’s (RAAF) elite aerobatic display team, composed of some of the nation’s most skilled pilots, will showcase their awe-inspiring flying prowess over Sydney Harbour.
Watch in amazement as the daredevil aviators push 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 can endure up to six times the force of gravity, delivering an adrenaline-pumping experience for onlookers.
This special Australia Day display marks the squad’s return to the skies above Sydney Harbour on January 26 after more than a decade, promising an exhilarating and unmissable show.
- Where: Prime viewing locations include Circular Quay, Hicksons Road Reserve, Overseas Passenger Terminal and the Sydney Opera House
- Time: Friday 26 January, 12pm-12.15pm
- northshoremums.com.au
Vintage Bus Ride
Enjoy a Vintage Bus Ride at Circular Quay and North Sydney! Travel like it’s 1949 on a double-decker vintage bus from Macquarie Street across the Sydney Harbour Bridge to North Sydney and back again. Everyone is welcome to rest their legs and take a seat on board one of Sydney’s beloved historic buses.
- Where: Circular Quay, Sydney
- Time: Friday 26 January, 10.30am-5.30pm
- northshoremums.com.au
Australia Day Live, Sydney Opera House
Australia Day Live is a spectacular concert staged on land and water, featuring live musical performances from top Aussie acts and dazzling fireworks displays, and it’s happening at Sydney Opera House and Circular Quay this Australia Day!
This unique event features live musical performances choreographed to a flotilla of yachts, projections on the Sydney Opera House sails, and stunning pyrotechnic displays over Sydney Harbour.
A stellar line-up of true blue Australian musical acts will take the stage to belt out beloved hits, accompanied by a full orchestra.
- Where: Sydney Opera House
- When: Friday 26 January, 7.30 – 9.30pm
- More info: northshoremums.com.au
Australia Day Mega Kidz Zone
This Australia Day, the arrivals hall of the Overseas Passenger Terminal will be transformed into a massive interactive arcade perfect for kids of all ages. The Mega Kidz Zone will be a place of fun for families and friends with arcade games, a massive maze, inflatable obstacle course and more.
Entry to the Mega Kidz Zone is free and families are set to be entertained with hours of fun on Australia Day.
Get lost in the massive Maze, bounce through the enormous inflatable obstacle course, or satisfy your inner kid on one of the arcade games. Dance to the beats of the silent disco, a space for kids of all abilities to experience one big party they’ll never forget.
- Where: Overseas Passenger Terminal, Circular Quay
- When: Friday 26 January, 10.30am-4pm
- More info: northshoremums.com.au
Australia Day in Darling Harbour
Round up the family for a big day out in Darling Harbour this Australia Day. Soak up the summer sun in a pedal boat ride on the harbour, get competitive in a round of Pixar Putt, or have a splash in the water play area.
Then fuel up with a delicious feed at one of over 150 places to eat and drink. From authentic Asian cuisine in Darling Square to relaxed alfresco dining in Darling Quarter and classic Aussie seafood at Cockle Bay Wharf, there’s something for everyone.
- Where: Tumbalong Park and Darling Quarter Village
- When: Friday 26 January
- northshoremums.com.au
Australia Day at The Rocks
Head to The Rocks this Australia Day. You’ll find an open air market featuring tasty eats celebrating Australia’s diversity with food. Discover dishes from all over the planet – all prepared by local chefs right in front of you.
Expect authentic pizzas, handmade chocolate, authentic paella and delicious gozleme all within arm’s reach, and while you’re there, enjoy free live music.
- Where: 134 George Street, The Rocks
- When: Friday 26 January, 11am – 5pm
- northshoremums.com.au
Yabun Festival
Yabun Festival is Australia’s largest one-day celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. This highly anticipated festival has been a yearly highlight since its inception in 2003. Be a part of a community celebration that embraces the world’s oldest living culture.
This year’s theme, “Surviving, Guiding, Thriving,” celebrates the resilience and strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
The Yabun Festival is more than just a gathering; it’s a living testament to the enduring strength and vibrancy of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Experience a celebration like no other.
- Where: Victoria Park
- When: Friday 26 January, 10am – 6pm
- northshoremums.com.au
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, food truck party, and more.
- Australia Day Eve Open Air Cinema: Thursday 25 January, 5.30pm-8.30pm, Lakeside Park, North Narrabeen
- Australia Day in Collaroy: Friday 26 January, 10am-2pm, Collaroy Beach, Collaroy
- Australia Day Pool Party at Manly Aquatic Centre: Friday 26 January, 9am-12pm, Manly Aquatic Centre, Kenneth Road, Manly
- Australia Day Pool Party at Warringah Aquatic Centre: Friday 26 January, 9am-12pm, Warringah Aquatic Centre, Aquatic Drive, Frenchs Forest
- Australia Day 2024 at Manly Beach: Friday 26 January, 10am-2pm, Manly Beach
- Australia Day 2024 at Dee Why Beach: Friday 26 January, 10am-2pm, Dee Why Beach
Australia Day Events in Ryde
Ryde’s Australia Day Backyard BBQ
Come over to Meadowbank Park on Australia Day for Ryde’s Backyard BBQ on Friday 26 January from 4-9pm.
On the day, kids can enjoy free activities including a cookie making workshop and face painting. Enjoy live entertainment from Tip Toe Giants and an Australian wildlife life show. Bring the kids to the skatepark for skate workshops, as well as other free sports activities for the family to enjoy.
At the end of the day, sit down and watch the fireworks at 9pm.
- Where: Meadowbank Park, Constitution Rd, Meadowbank
- When: Friday 26 January
- northshoremums.com.au
Australia Day Events in Parramatta
Parramatta Park
This Australia Day, enjoy two very special events in Parramatta. The sky will light up on Thursday 25 January as the inaugural Balloon Glow event gets underway in Parramatta Park. The stunning music and illumination display includes live music, family activities, delicious food and more. Entry is free.
Bring your friends and family to Parramatta Park on Australia Day to see the hot air balloons soaring while enjoying live music and entertainment, activities for the whole family plus yummy BBQ breakfast food. Running from 6am until 11am, this free event is the perfect opportunity to get out of the house for a fun morning outdoors. More information and the program details will be announced by City of Parramatta soon.
Fly high above the park in a hot air balloon! The tethered balloon rides run from 6am – 9am on Friday 26 January and cost $10 per person. Ballot registrations open 10am, Thursday 4 January and close 5pm, Tuesday 9 January. Terms and conditions apply*
- Where: Parramatta Park Macquarie Street, Parramatta
- When: Thursday 25 & Friday 26 January
- northshoremums.com.au
Australia Day Events in The Hills District
Australia Day 2024 at Bella Vista Farm & Waves Fitness & Aquatic Centre
Get ready for an unmissable celebration in The Hills this Australia Day at Bella Vista Farm and Waves Fitness and Aquatic Centre.
The festivities kick off with a massive Australia Day pool party at Waves, followed by fun for the whole family at Bella Vista Farm on Friday 26 January.
Pop sensation and X-Factor winner Samantha Jade will headline the Bella Vista Farm event, alongside performances by Junkyard Beats, Dorothy the Dinosaur & Friends as well as local performance groups.
- Where: 44 Mileham Avenue, Baulkham Hills & Bella Vista Farm
- When: Friday 26 January, 10am-9pm
- thehills.nsw.gov.au
