Australia Day 2023 - What’s On In Sydney, NSW

From dawn till night, Sydneysiders and visitors alike are encouraged to reflect, honour, and celebrate the history and culture of our nation by participating in the Australia Day events.

The 2023 program curated by the The Australia Day Council of NSW and NSW Government will bring back the celebrations in full flurry, after an unfortunate couple of years.

Let’s join hands to be the spark of fire that ignites the whole country – spend this Australia Day with the whole family and take part in some of the most vibrant events that bring together the very core elements of what it means to be an Australia!

Harbour Daytime Program

Sydney Harbour instantly springs to mind as we mention the grand celebrations on Australia Day. The stellar harbour backdrop, which hosts many of the major celebrations of Sydney, transforms into a stage like no other with iconic events and traditions lining up to take to the waters.

Ferrython & Tall Ships race

Ferrython is one such annual tradition where our beloved ferries race for honours from Fort Denison, around Shark Island, and to the finish under the Harbour Bridge.

See vintage ships and iconic vessels battle it out for the coveted Tall Ships trophy in a thrilling race from Bradley’s Head, up the harbour, and to finish under The Bridge around 1.30pm.

Maritime Mayhem

Maritime Mayhem raises the excitement level with a high-voltage display of jet skis performing outrageous tricks and stunts, and a tug-handling display accompanied by lively commentary and an invigorating soundtrack!

The best seats to watch the above mentioned events, and more, are on the water. Luckily for you, Australia Day cruises on luxury vessels offer top-notch views that make it easily stand out from other harbour vantage points.

Smoking Ceremony at Barangaroo

Marking its 20-year anniversary is the sacred WugulOra Ceremony, which is a smoking ritual honouring the fallen, and those who continue to endure adversities today. It is also about striding forward together as a state and country with the First Nations. The ancient smoking ceremony symbolises cleansing the way for new beginnings.

Dawn of Reflection

Before the sun rises, the sails of the Opera House illuminate with a breathtaking First Nations artwork as tribute to the traditional custodians of the land. You are welcome to come witness this symbolic display, take a moment to pause, reflect and reminisce. The brain behind this year’s projection is a proud Kamilaroi woman and artist, Rhonda Sampson. She revealed that her artwork will pay homage to the site of Tubowgule, the original land on which the Opera House now sits boldly.

These events are part of a nation-wide movement to extend the day’s celebration of the First Fleet’s arrival, to a commemoration for our fellow Indigenous communities.

Australia Day at The Rocks

International food extravaganza, live music and epic views of the harbour – find all of this and more at one spot at The Rocks. Discover a day-long market with endless stalls, and indulge in dishes from around the world! Expect everything from authentic pizzas, and handmade chocolates, to portuguese egg tarts and caramel waffles.

Australia Day Live

The national day celebrations culminate with a rip-roaring land and water concert on the forecourt of the Opera House and Circular Quay. Top acts including Dami Im, Casey Donovan, Anthony Callea, Tim Campbell, and a whole lot more will deliver epic live performances, choreographed to a flotilla of yachts, jet skiers, and flyboarders, with an extravagant fireworks display over Sydney Harbour.

Popular Australia Day cruises in 2023 offer a unique cruising perspective of the event with its special run of evening firework packages. Book your seats now for an epic finale to your Straya Day celebrations!

Looking for ideas and activities to celebrate Australia Day in Sydney. I am a blogger who loves to share unique ideas about travelling or to celebrate occasions in a different way.