Know before you go
What it is
Brisbane City Council's free New Year's Eve fireworks on the Brisbane River. In 2025 they were launched from six barges, with a family show at 7:45pm, drone shows at 9pm and 11pm, and fireworks at midnight.
Arriving by car
In 2025, roads in South Brisbane and Kangaroo Point closed from 4pm and parts of the CBD from 5pm, until 2am. Plan to reach your hotel before the afternoon closures.
Getting home
In 2025, all TransLink services were free from 8pm on 31 December to 5:30am on 1 January, and the closures lifted at 2am. Police advise planning your pickup or booking a taxi ahead.
Good to knowThe Lord Mayor's 2025 announcement named the best viewing spots: South Bank Parklands, The Landing at Queen's Wharf, Howard Smith Wharves, Riverside Centre and Kangaroo Point. In 2025, Victoria Bridge and Kangaroo Point Bridge closed to people on foot during the fireworks.
Facts checked 1 Nov 2026 · Sources: adrianschrinner.com.au, mypolice.qld.gov.au
Make it a trip
Questions
When are the Brisbane New Year's Eve fireworks?
In 2025 there was a family show at 7:45pm and the main fireworks at midnight on 31 December. The 2026 program had not been announced when we checked.
Is public transport free on New Year's Eve in Brisbane?
It was in 2025: all TransLink services were free from 8pm on 31 December to 5:30am on 1 January. The 2026 plan had not been announced when we checked.
Can I book the trip back too?
Yes. Add the return trip when you book.
We are a group with lots of bags. Which car?
Pick the car size when you book. Bigger cars are offered for more people and bags.