NYE in Australia | Places to Visit and Must-do Attractions
With scenic surroundings, splendid festivities and perfect weather, Australia is one of the best places to visit during the last few months of a year. This New Year’s Eve, travel down to the Land Down Under for a memorable experience. I’m an expat living in Sydney and over the last five years, I was fortunate to celebrate New Year’s Eve at five different places. And here’s a glimpse into each of them.
Sydney Harbour, Sydney
Having lived in Sydney all these years, I’ve come to terms with the city’s love for extravagant celebrations. The Sydney New Year’s Eve firework is one of the biggest events in the world and it was only in the previous year that I could experience it first-hand. The brilliant firework display can be witnessed from different vantage points on the harbour; I got aboard one of the New Year cruises in the area, which gave me a grand visual treat. Some of my friends chose a waterfront restaurant overlooking the harbour. But I’m sure they would have appreciated an NYE cruise more than any other venue as it offers a dynamic sightseeing experience on the go too. The Sydney NYE cruises offer everything from a restaurant-quality dining experience and drinks to DJ and dancing. This year, I intend on staying back in the city to watch this marvellous spectacle once again.
Hobart, Tasmania
Hobart, the capital city of Tasmania hosts the popular Tasmanian festival happening through the months of December and January. If you’re planning to spend New Year’s Eve in Hobart, then you’re in for a treat. On this occasion, the city celebrates its finest local produce including cider, wine and beer. Visit the festival before mid-afternoon on December 31 to explore the various Aussie new year food traditions. Get your hands on handcrafted premium cheese, pear cider, local sea urchins and pinot noir. The festival, which was founded in 1988 by the locals, is known for its art displays and music concerts as well. Please keep in mind that if you visit in the evening, you might have to purchase a ticket to get in.
Canberra
Canberra, the capital of Australia, is one of those few places that are looked down by Aussies in so many ways. But looking back, I figured it would’ve surely been a huge miss to not attend the New Year’s Eve celebrations in Canberra at least once in my lifetime. The city hosts all its major New Year’s Eve celebrations at the Civic Square in the town centre. Reach the city as early as possible to get a glimpse of all the grand festivities taking place in and around Canberra. From local musicians playing melodious tunes along with other side acts to the impressive firework display at 9pm and midnight, Canberra offers a power-packed night on December 31 every year.
Gold Coast, Queensland
The go-to party destination for Aussies, Gold Coast is, hands down, one of my favourite cities in the country. On New Year’s Eve, it hosts an extensive range of varied firework displays, held across the many widespread beaches on Gold Coast. If you prefer a peaceful NYE celebration, then you could choose a beach that isn’t much crowded.
Perth, Western Australia
What attracted me towards New Year’s Eve celebrations in Perth is its love for music, art and dance more than fireworks and other flashy ways of welcoming the new year. From live music shows and street plays to animated movie shows and other interesting activities, Perth is one of those places where you can feel the electric vibes without fireworks. One of the must-visit places in Perth during New Year’s Eve is Northbridge suburb, where you can be a part of several NYE festivals which start as early as 6:00pm.
I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but I’m yet to attend the New Year’s Eve celebrations of two more Aussie states–Northern Territory and South Australia. Fingers crossed, I’d make it in the coming years. I hope you found this article helpful.