Where to Watch the Fireworks in Sydney on New Year's Eve
Ring in 2025 for free with the best vantage points to watch Sydney's New Year's Eve fireworks.
The Sydney fireworks are an international spectacle each year with many flying into our harbour city to cross the experience off their bucket lists. Sydney is also one of the first major cities worldwide to welcome in the New Year, making it extra special. Over 1 million people descend to the harbour and surrounds to watch the display whilst a global audience of more than 425 million tunes in.
Whilst it's a commitment to secure one of the unticketed spots (most are full by midday), the end result is worth as you watch the sky light up and thousands of voices raised in excitement. Our tip? Make a game plan and get in early! Read on for the best spots to watch the fireworks in Sydney this New Year's Eve...
Where to Watch the Fireworks in Sydney on New Year's Eve: The Rocks
Each of the vantage points to watch the Sydney fireworks from The Rocks opens at 9am. All vantage points are free and no tickets are required. You'll need to get in early as once an area reaches capacity it will be closed. In each location you'll find alcohol is prohibited but there will be a water station as well as food and drink available for purchase and accessible toilets.
Campbell's Cove
Campbell's Cove boasts some of the best views of the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.
More information is available here
Capacity: 11 000
Dawes Point Park
The views here might be partially obscured but being right on the edge of the Harbour Bridge you're in the centre of the action.
More information is available here.
Capacity: 36 000
East Circular Quay
Smack bang on the promenade, East Circular Quay is also another well-sought out spot.
More information is available here.
Capacity: 9500
West Circular Quay
Just outside the MCA, you'll score partial views of both the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge.
Capacity: 22 000
More information is available here.
Hickson Road Reserve
This might just be the best spot in the house! You'll want to get in early to score a seat here.
More information is available here.
Capacity: 3000
Where to Watch the Fireworks in Sydney on New Year's Eve: Barangaroo
Barangaroo Reserve
Open from 12pm, Barangaroo Reserve offers sweeping views of the Harbour and the iconic Sydney fireworks display. Unlike other locations, alcohol will be available for purchase though BYO is not permitted.
There will also be entertainment throughout the night with a fun lineup available to view here.
More information is available here.
Capacity: 9000
Where to Watch the Fireworks in Sydney on New Year's Eve: Darling Harbour
A great option for both 9pm and midnight fireworks, Darling Harbour is a great spot to ring in the New Year. It's important to note, these fireworks are separate from the Sydney New Year's Eve fireworks display which are best viewed elsewhere. Spots can be secured from 1pm onwards. Alcohol is prohibited but there will be a water station as well as food and drink available for purchase and accessible toilets.
More information is available here.
Capacity: 27 000
Where to Watch the Fireworks in Sydney on New Year's Eve: Royal Botanic Gardens
Mrs Mcquarie's Point
Open from 10am, Mrs Macquarie's Point is divine at any time of year but emanates a lovely buzz come New Year. Open from 10am, this venue was full by 1:30pm last year so get in quick! Food and drinks available for purchase, including alcohol. No BYO.
More information is available here.
Capacity: 10 000
Fleet Steps
This spot is extra special with 180-degree views of the Harbour Bridge. Fleet Steps is also open from 10am with food and beverages including alcohol available for purchase. No BYO.
More information is available here.
Capacity: 3000
Where to Watch the Fireworks in Sydney on New Year's Eve: Lavender Bay
Lavender Bay Parklands
One of the premier spots North of the bridge, Lavender Bay Parklands will host a drinking water station as well as food trucks this year. No alcohol is permitted here.
More information is available here.
Capacity: 3000
Looking for more vantage points from which to view the fireworks for free? Head over here for the official lowdown.
Loved this edit of where to watch the fireworks in Sydney on New Year's Eve and looking for more inspo? Be sure to catch our New Year's Eve event round up here as well as our 2025 national event guide.
