New Year's Eve

Food, fun and fireworks await! Farewell 2025 and welcome 2026 with a bang at our vibrant, family-friendly festivities along Newcastle Harbour Foreshore.

Distinct zones offer something for everyone - from energetic play spaces for the kids, to relaxed picnic areas and vibrant entertainment hubs. Whether you're looking to dance, dine, create, or simply unwind, there’s a space for you.

When: Wednesday 31 December, 5pm - 9.15pm

Where: Newcastle Harbour Foreshore

What to expect: There's something for everyone at our New Year's Eve celebration:

• Share a resolution for the new year at the Wish Exchange
• Explore the carnival-style Kids Zone
• Enjoy live music and entertainment at the Live Stage at The Station
• Kick up your heels at our three DJ stations (including a kids disco!)
• Snap a pic with the Newy NYE inflatable
• Unwind at our two Picnic Zones and dedicated Quiet Zone
• Catch every moment from our Accessible Viewing Platform
• Grab a tasty bite from one of our multiple Eat Streets
• Be wowed by the 9pm Fireworks display on the harbour

Share your hopes and resolutions for the year ahead at the Wish Exchange, an immersive phone booth and mailbox installation. Speak your message into the phone booth receiver and see it transformed into text that displays on a glowing LED wall behind the DJ stage.

This is a chance to reflect, connect and form a shared wallpaper of dreams for 2026.

The kids will absolutely love the NYE Kids Zone, a summer-holiday-inspired wonderland bursting with colour, movement and imagination. This free, carnival-style space is designed to delight children and families alike with a host of activities, including:

• Sideshow games
• Hula hooping, juggling and percussion workshops
• Face painting and temporary tattoos
• Toddler jumping castle
• Kids stage for performances
• 'Design your own NYE sunglasses' craft station

Enjoy a stellar lineup of homegrown music, comedy and fringe cabaret on the Live Stage at The Station.

Across the site, three DJ stations, including a kids disco with a “Step Up & Shoot” selfie camera, will keep the energy high and the beats flowing.

Need a quieter space to step away from all the excitement of New Year's Eve? We've got you covered with various 'Relax and Recharge' spaces where you can unwind, connect and enjoy the evening.

Two open Picnic Zones offer grassy areas perfect for lounging with friends and family over a shared meal. For those seeking a quieter experience, the Quiet Zone offers a calm, seated space ideal for elderly or vulnerable community members.

There will also be an Accessible Viewing Platform, ensuring everyone can comfortably take part in the festivities.

Check back closer to the event for more accessibility details.

You won't need to go far to find something tasty, with Eat Streets spread across three zones, including a mobility-friendly dining space at The Station Eat Street.

With a range of delicious food vendors on offer, there'll be something to suit every craving.

Don't miss the Fireworks spectacular, shooting off from the Harbour at 9pm. Prepare to be wowed by the colourful, 12-minute display as we send off 2025 in style.