Celebrating in Melbourne this new year’s eve? Your guide to 2026 fireworks. Melbourne is preparing to welcome 2026 with one of its largest New Year’s Eve celebrations on record, as around 500,000 people are expected to gather across the CBD.
A $6 million fireworks and laser spectacular, synchronised to a party soundtrack, will launch from 27 rooftops, with two displays scheduled — a 9:30pm show for families and the main midnight event. Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece says the combined fireworks and laser display will be the city’s “biggest and best” yet, designed to be visible well beyond the CBD thanks to new multi-directional lasers.
“If you can see the city skyline — north, south, east or west — you’ll be able to see the fireworks and the lasers,” Cr Reece said, adding Melbourne’s show would rival any in Australia.
The City of Melbourne has nominated Victoria Harbour (Docklands), Flagstaff Gardens, Kings Domain beside the Royal Botanic Gardens, and Treasury Gardens as the best public viewing areas. These celebration zones will host free entertainment from 6pm to 1am, including DJs, street performers, silent discos and food trucks.
All City of Melbourne events are free and require no bookings, with public transport free from 6pm on New Year’s Eve until 6am on New Year’s Day. Visitors can bring picnics, food and non-alcoholic drinks, but alcohol is banned in public CBD areas outside licensed venues.
Significant road closures will begin from 4pm, affecting vehicles and pedestrians, including several Yarra River bridges. Authorities are urging revellers to use public transport, with 750 extra services added across trains, trams and buses, operating on altered timetables. Major stations including Flinders Street and Southern Cross will remain open all night.
Security will be heightened, with 2,500 additional police officers deployed across Victoria, including 500 in the CBD. Designated search areas will be in place in the city, St Kilda foreshore and Geelong CBD, allowing police to conduct random weapon checks. Victoria Police stress there is no specific threat, but say precautions reflect large crowd numbers.
Weather conditions are expected to be cool to mild, with a forecast high of 19°C, strong southerly winds and overnight temperatures dropping to around 14°C. Regional parts of Victoria, however, may experience temperatures in the low 30s.
Authorities have issued a strong warning against illegal fireworks, citing serious injury and bushfire risks. Fire Rescue Victoria says only licensed pyrotechnicians with permits may legally set off fireworks.
Pet owners are also urged to prepare for fireworks noise by exercising animals early, keeping pets indoors, reducing external noise and ensuring microchip details are up to date. Wildlife authorities warn fireworks can also endanger native animals.
For those staying home, Melbourne’s New Year’s Eve celebrations will be broadcast live on ABC TV, ABC iview and ABC social platforms.
