Fun ways to celebrate the Australia Day long weekend
January 26 can be celebrated and observed in a variety of ways. Here are our top suggestions from around the nation.
Victoria
Australia Day at the Docklands
As the day winds down, the Docklands is the perfect destination to watch the impressive fireworks display. Harbour Esplanade will be abuzz with food trucks and performers.
New South Wales
Australia Day Sydney
The Sydney Opera House will play host to musical acts including Tina Arena, Guy Sebastian and Nat Conway.
Australia Day in Parramatta
This year’s massive all-day event will feature a spectacular aerial hot-air balloon display, live music, the infamous Big Barbecue (with 90m-plus of cooked meat on offer), a vintage car display, family-friendly workshops and activities followed by a fireworks finale.
Tasmania
A Day on the Beach
Hit Hobart hot spot Kingston Beach for a day of free, family-friendly fun. With a community focus, the annual event attracts up to 12,000 people throughout the action-packed day.
Queensland
Australia Day at Broadwater Parklands
This all-ages event in Southport features fireworks, food trucks, a barbecue, local music and a kids’ sports zone, all overlooking the picturesque pier.
Western Australia
Mandurah Masters Ocean Swim
For those craving some healthy competition, the annual Mandurah Masters returns with the ocean swim events (1km, 2km or 4km), which are open to swimmers from 12 years and up.
South Australia
Australia Day in the City
Enjoy one of the nation’s largest Australia Day parades from 6pm featuring more than 4000 people, horses, cars and floats and a fly-past by an F/A-18 Hornet.
Northern Territory
Australia Day Fun Run
The annual fun run is a community event that takes place on Darwin Waterfront, with participants walking or running the 2.5km and 5km event.
Australian Capital Territory
National Flag Raising & Citizenship Ceremony
One of Australia Day’s most recognised events will be hosted by TV sports presenter Stephanie Brantz this year. You can watch the event live on the ABC from 9am.
If you’re heading away for the long weekend, make sure you also take care of your health with these five simple tips for staying healthy on holidays.