To some it means a long weekend, to others, the end of school holidays, and some a day to celebrate the country that they now call home. Regardless of what Australia Day means to you, there's always plenty going on in Sydney to signify it.

While Australia Day may not be for everyone, if you're choosing to celebrate or attend any events, there's heaps of options for you right across the city.

When is it? From 5:20am on 26 January, 2026

Where is it? Overseas passenger terminal

Cost: Free

At the break of day, the Opera House sails will be illuminated with Aboriginal artworks before a dawn reflection takes place to reflect and recall the country's past. The ceremonly will also include the two flags being raised atop the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

When is it? 7:30-8:30am, 26 January, 2026

Where is it? Walumil Lawns, Barangaroo

Cost: Free

After watching the sun rise over the harbour and Opera House, walk around to Barangaroo Reserve to witness WulgulOra (which means "One Mob" in the local Gadigal language). The ceremony celerates the local culture through dance, song and story and will also include speeches from the NSW Premier, NSW Governor and the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council.

When is it? From 7:30pm on 26 January, 2026

Where is it? Circular Quay

Cost: Free (But ticketed)

The Sydney Opera House Forecourt pops off in the evening of Austraila, with a lineup of talented artists taking the stage before finishing the day with a bang -- yep, that means plenty of fireworks. In 2026, Cody Simpson, Kate Cerberano, Dave Gleeson, William Barton and more will be performing before the sky lights up.

When is it? All day, 26 January

Where is it? Beneath Sydney Harbour Bridge

Cost: Free to watch

Crowds along the foreshore can watch four ferries race from the Sydney Harbour Bridge to Fort Denison (for two laps), before arriving at the finishing line at Sydney Opera House for this annual competition. If you're looking for the best places to watch, check out Mary Booth Reserve, Hickson Road Reserve, Campbells Cove and outside the Sydney Opera House.

When is it? From 8:00am, 26 January

Where is it? Rose Bay

Cost: From AU$50 (prices change based on when you purchase and which length race you choose)

Back for its 10th year, the Sydney Harbour Splash lets you dive into the waters at Rose Bay for a long-distance swim of 1km up to 5km. Not only does teh event give youa chance to swim in the sparkling Sydney Harbour in the middle of summer, it's also for a good cause. Proceeds from the event go to the Dementia Research Community.

Most of the Australia Day events are centred around the CBD, particularly the Harbour and Circular Quay areas, so staying right in the city is probably your best bet for the Australia Day weekend. Here's a few places we recommend that, as of the time of writing, still have availability:

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Written by: Alex Keshen

The content strategist and SEO lead for Traveloka Australia, Alex manages the blog and other pages across the site. An avid traveller, digital content creator and writer, she’s contributed to publications such as Australian Women's Weekly, Marie Claire, Elle, Gourmet Traveller, Finder and Explore Travel… and has found the time to visit 50+ countries while doing it. She loves good flight sale and will share some of the best ones she can find right here on our Explore blog. Follow her regular Deals of the Week column for the latest bargains on flights, hotels and more.