Our New Year’s Eve may be slightly tamer than the ones we had in our pre-children days, but that doesn’t mean the fun has to stop!
If staying close to home is on the agenda this NYE, then you have a few great kid-friendly options close by. Or, if you’re looking for something more and are keen to venture out, there are plenty of great vantage points around Sydney for watching the family-friendly 9pm fireworks. Families with young children can enjoy the 8-minute display and travel home before the late-night crowds arrive. Some events start even earlier at 4pm with rides, food and entertainment to allow the little ones to have heaps of fun and still get home to bed at a decent hour.
SUTHERLAND SHIRE
If you are looking to stay local this NYE, there are a few great choices available to you this year.
The Prince Hotel
Westfield Miranda
With entertainment from 5 pm, book your table at one of the Kingsway or Rooftop restaurants today to be sure you don’t miss the 9 pm fireworks at Westfield Miranda.
They have face painters, balloon benders, light displays, live music, fire dancers, gelato cart, glow in the dark fairy floss, LED Hula Hoop dancers and more.
A night not to be missed!
Sharkies
Bring the kids along and enjoy an early NYE celebration! Watch the 9 pm fireworks on the screen, free face painting from 5.30pm-8.30pm, free kids lolly bar, $5 cocktails & food specials.
Kurnell
Kurnell makes a great vantage point to see both the Brighton and City fireworks. One of our favourite places to take the kids Cook at Kurnell will be open serving up its delicious food.
BRIGHTON LE SANDS
Celebrate the eve of the New Year by the picturesque beachfront stretching from Kyeemagh to Ramsgate. A spectacular fireworks display will set the night alight by the bay at Brighton Le Sands. To get the best view, head to Lady Robinsons Beach and watch the amazing fireworks explode in the sky at 9 pm.
EASTERN SUBURBS
Every year Randwick City Council proudly presents the Coogee Sparkles NYE fireworks at the family-friendly time of 9 pm (note there is no midnight fireworks).
Families, local community and visitors gather along the coast at Coogee Beach to watch this fabulous 15-20 minute fireworks display. Many people make a day of it by swimming at the beach during the afternoon and enjoying a picnic dinner while waiting for the sun to set.
The fireworks are set off from Dunningham Reserve (near the Bali Memorial) which is located to the north of Coogee Beach.
Check out the best vantage points.
Photo of fireworks over Coogee beach. Picture: Glenn Duffus
CITY / HARBOUR
The Australian National Maritime Museum will be open on New Year’s Eve for those lucky enough to get a place. Its ample parking slots, proximity to hotels, ferry, bus, light rail and train, make it the perfect venue for those looking to beat the crowds with a reserved spot right under the most spectacular fireworks in the world.
This year be wowed by roving magicians and ribbon dancers; enjoy exclusive after-hours access to the newest interactive exhibition, Arctic Voices, have fun with their roving character performers, play with our bubble artist and hula hoops, have your face painted, and dance the night away with the DJ.
Choose the experience that fits you best: a premium Yachts package, includes a gourmet fresh seafood basket, or the family-friendly Tinnies package, which includes a BBQ, salad and soft drinks. Alcohol can be purchased on site.
Celebrate the New Year with a spectacular display at Darling Harbour. With flame and light shows every hour from 7 pm, as well as land and water-based fireworks at 9 pm and midnight, Sydney New Year’s Eve at Darling Harbour is the family-friendly place to ring in 2018!
Sydney New Year’s Eve at Darling Harbour is a free and accessible event. Make sure you plan your trip, use public transport and get in early, as large crowds are expected and seating will be limited.
- Enjoy flame and light shows at 7 pm, 8 pm, 10 pm and 11 pm.
- Watch fireworks light up the sky at 9 pm and midnight.
- Sydney New Year’s Eve at Darling Harbour is a family-friendly and alcohol-free event. Please note, no BYO alcohol allowed.
Extra Info
NSW National Parks has a list of the best vantage points to see the fireworks in parks – including the Clark Island Garden Party, the Goat Island Party, The Shark Island Party and NYE at Nielsen Park.
The City of Sydney offers a complete list of all the vantage points to view the fireworks, too.
If you plan to have a quiet one with the kids and stay home, click here for the best ways to enjoy the action via live-streaming and TV.
Wishing you a safe, prosperous and Happy New Year!
