A Sneak Peek Into Australia Day Celebrations in The Harbour City

26th January! The day we Aussies swell up with pride for our nation. As it is a public holiday, we are either brainstorming ideas for things to do, or on the lookout for the perfect venue to celebrate Australia Day. Let’s take a sneak peek into a few dazzling national day celebrations in Sydney that will inspire you to step out and celebrate with the rest of the city.

The Dawn Reflection at Circular Quay

On Australia Day, get set to be mesmerised as the sails of Sydney Opera House lights up with the First Nations creative artwork. This is one moment to reflect and honour the nation’s traditional custodians. Rhonda Sampson, a Kamilaroi woman artist, features her artwork at the Dawn Projection 2023. According to her, the artwork reflects its rich history and the land on which the Opera House stands. This projection will coincide with the National Flag and the Aboriginal Flag being raised atop the Harbour Bridge.

The Ferrython on Sydney Harbour

The race that has been on since 1977 every year continues its stint this year as well. Watch the First Fleet of ferries all decked up for the Ferrython as they flag off from Fort Denison, around Shark Island and to the finish line under the Harbour Bridge. Cheer for your favourite from any of the onshore vantage points like the Opera House, Hickson Road Reserve, Blues Point or the Overseas Passenger Terminal. To free yourself from the crowd, you could opt for one of the Australia Day cruises on Sydney Harbour. They feature a splendid dine, wine and sightseeing experience, with ringside views of all other harbour events.

The Navy Helicopter Display

Australia Day cruises on Sydney Harbour are great vantage points to view the Royal Australian Navy helicopter display as well. Look at the sky with pride and reflect on our nation’s past as you watch the Navy helicopter tow the giant Australian flag over the Sydney Harbour and its surrounds on Australia Day. The best vantage spots are Sydney Harbour and beaches such as Manly Beach, Bondi Beach and other beaches in the south coast.

An Open Air Market at the Rocks

Walk through countless stalls, enjoy live music. Treat yourself to delicious street food, exciting wheelchair races and spectacular views at the Rocks. With Australia’s rich diversity in food, get set to feast on a range of delicious eats that will be prepared live by local chefs. Authentic pizzas, handmade chocolate, caramel waffles, Portuguese egg tarts and the like will definitely tickle your fancy.

Fun activities at Darling Harbour

Darling Harbour will be bursting with pleasure and excitement as families gather for fun activities and towards countless spots to dine and drink. Events feature a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony at midday and live DJ music from a Kombi Van. Enter a magical marine world at Tumbalong Park with a six metre-tall immersive water-play installation at Cupid’s Koi Garden where you can see brightly coloured fish and terrazzo ponds under the gaze of Cupid’s motion-tracking LED eyes. Have a round of pixar putt mini golf or take a pedal boat ride around Cockle Bay.

Australia Day at the Government House

Enjoy a free, fun and family-friendly experience at the heart of the city. Soak up the sunshine as you picnic in the spacious, picturesque gardens. Featured highlights:

• Live music courtesy of the NSW Corrective Services Big Band and the Fire and Rescue Big Band

• Self Guided tours of Sydney’s "Castle by the Harbour"and more

• Vintage and modern fire engines

• Guide dog demonstrations

• Treats like sausage sizzle and cold drinks for sale by Normanhurst Scouts

• Beautiful Eastern Terrace garden will be in full bloom, with friendly guides to show you around

Sydney Harbour Splash at Rose Bay

Compete in a swim and raise money for a worthy cause. The swim commences at Woollahra Sailing Club, Rose Bay through the defined routes on the harbour and back to the Sailing Club. You can choose from 1km, 2.5km or 5km swims, with prizes, towels, refreshments awaiting you on your return.

Has this blog re-ignited the Aussie spirit in you? If so, go out there and experience the celebrations first-hand, mates. Don’t forget to share your comments below.

I am a traveller, an artist who love to explore various places, art and food.