The Best Spots to Watch Sydney’s NYE Fireworks, Because It Pays To Plan Ahead
Sydney sits at the top of the list when it comes to the best New Years Eve celebrations. As midnight hits on the 31st of December, the Harbour Bridge puts on one of the most breathtaking displays of fireworks in the world. It truly is something to see.
While New Years Eve feels like it is still ages away, some of the best ticketed spots to view Sydney’s iconic fireworks display have already gone on sale.
We have (somehow) managed to narrow down the best locations where you can get front-row seats to the greatest party of the year. Be sure to plan ahead so can snag a ticket to your preferred event before it sells out!
Cockatoo Island, Sydney Harbour
Experience NYE on Sydney Harbour on the historic Cockatoo Island. You get all the magic of full firework visibility minus the hassle of transport and big crowds on the night.
Getting to experience this isn’t easy though, to hire one of the limited houses or apartments you must enter a ballot (it closes at 2pm AEST on Friday September 23). Alternatively, if luxury camping is more your scene, camping packages go on sale Tuesday 27 September.
Sydney Opera House
With unobstructed views of the Harbour Bridge there’s no question as to why the steps of this iconic landmark is THE spot to view the fireworks.
Purchase a ticket to one of the events happening at the Opera House and ring in the New Year in a way you will never forget. A ticket to the midnight party ($349/ticket) includes canapés, drinks and live entertainment in the Northern Foyer with views of the spectacular midnight fireworks on Sydney Harbour.
If You Fancy A 5-Star Night Out…
Watch the fireworks from the rooftop of Customs House at this famed restaurant. With a wine to match each of the six courses this one is worth experiencing, and one of the most expensive in town at $1100pp.
The Dining Room, Park Hyatt Hotel
A family-friendly dinner will be offered from 5:30pm – 8pm. This will include a 3-course set menu with a glass of Veuve Clicquot Champagne. Early seating is $295 pp (adults) and $145pp for children under 12.
Alternatively, a 4-course set menu with a glass of Krug Champagne on arrival and one of the best views over the Opera House will be offered from 8:30pm-12:30am. This later seating is $680pp (adults only).
Barangaroo Reserve
Barangaroo Reserve sits on a sloped lawn and is one of the best vantage points to view the NYE fireworks from the western face of the bridge.
The area opens at 5pm and is a great spot for the whole family, with room to lay out your picnic rug. You’ll find food trucks, a bar and plenty of pre-midnight entertainment to ensure the wait is worthwhile. Tickets are $57 for adults and $26 for Juniors (4-17), it’s recommended you purchase in advance as this ticketed area always sells out.
Blues Point, McMahons Point
If spending money on a NYE ticket is not your vibe, head over to Blues Point. While it’s a ticketed event, the tickets are free and will be available to book from 1 November. Enjoy panoramic views of the western side of the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House on NYE, but keep in mind this areas is alcohol free.
Although food and non-alcoholic drinks are available all night, we recommend packing a picnic basket and heading down at 5pm when the space opens to snag your preferred picnic area.
Mrs Macquaries Point
Mrs Macquaries Point is a prime spot that sits on the edge of the harbour in the Botanic Gardens. There are two different types of tickets available.
Gold Ticket: With few trees you get unrestricted views of both 9pm and midnight fireworks. The area has a bar, bathrooms, free water as well as light snacks from the bar area. This area opens to ticket holders at 4pm. Tickets to this area are $160 for all ages.
Silver Ticket: Access to all the above as well as Sydney’s famous food trucks. There are some restricted views so it’s recommended you get there at 3pm when it opens. Tickets to this area are $40 for adults and $20 for children.
