If you're planning to spend Australia Day evening down at Wollongong Harbour, here's a few things to keep in mind before coming along – including how to view the 9pm fireworks.
On Monday 26 January 2026, we're holding a family friendly, alcohol-free community event at Wollongong Harbour that will start at 5pm with a Welcome to Country by Uncle Richard Davis and conclude with the 9pm fireworks over the Harbour. Activities include cultural art workshops, roving entertainment, food trucks, jumping castles, and more.
The fireworks display will be keenly anticipated following the unfortunate but necessary cancellation of the New Year's Eve fireworks. Lord Mayor of Wollongong Councillor Tania Brown hopes the weather is kinder come 26 January.
"There'll be plenty of people, myself included, very keen to see the fireworks go ahead after unfortunately missing out on New Year's Eve," Cr Brown said.
"While that cancellation was unavoidable, in fine conditions there's really no better place for a fireworks display than our iconic Wollongong Harbour. However, we've worked hard to ensure an alternative firing point at Flagstaff Hill is an option if needed.
"Hopefully it won't be required, and the fireworks can go ahead from the breakwall as planned. Like all outdoor events, it's weather dependent, but we're all hoping the sea is calm and the sun shines and our community can enjoy the family friendly activities on offer in the lead up to 9pm.
"There'll be roving entertainment, jumping castles for the little ones and free hands-on cultural art workshops. It's obviously a day people choose to mark differently, but there's plenty on offer should you choose to spend it at the Wollongong foreshore."
The fireworks display is planned for 9pm over the Harbour and will run for approximately 10 minutes. If there are any changes to the event, we will let the community know via an announcement at the venue and on our social media channels.
The community event is supported by a $15,000 grant from the Federal government via the National Australia Day grant program, with Member for Cunningham Alison Byrnes looking forward to the day in beautiful Wollongong.
"Australia Day means different things to different people, but I'm glad events like this give our community the opportunity to reflect, respect and celebrate our proud, ancient, and multicultural nation," Ms Byrnes said.
"I'm pleased the Albanese Government has been able to support this community event, and I encourage everyone to come down and enjoy the evening by the harbour."
Please consider your transport to the event as there will be road closures in place. If you're planning to drive, plan ahead as parking is very limited and roads will be very busy.
There are Park and Ride options
