The Vigil
Head to Barangaroo Reserve at dusk on 25 January for the beginning of an overnight vigil. A fire will be lit and maintained until 7am on 26 January to mark the significance of the day before the First Fleet arrived, and what happened after. Hear musical performances and stories of Country from current and future community Elders.
WugulOra Indigenous morning ceremony
Get up early on 26 January to watch the Aboriginal flag rise alongside the Australian flag on Sydney Harbour Bridge as part of the WugulOra Indigenous morning ceremony.
Watch the Ferrython and Tall Ships Race
On your marks...get set...go watch the ferrython! And if that's not enough nautical action, stick around for the Tall Ships Race.
Yabun Festival
As an alternative to Australia Day, join the largest 1-day gathering of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Australia. Yabun Festival is held on the 26 January every year, on the traditional lands of the Gadigal People.
GIO Oz Day 10k Wheelchair Race
See the world’s finest wheelchair athletes race through the city in the GIO Oz Day 10k Wheelchair Race.
Sydney Street Party
Join a family-friendly street party in The Rocks.
Lord Mayor’s Citizenship Ceremony
Welcome our newest Aussies at the Lord Mayor’s Citizenship Ceremony. This year it returns to the Overseas Passenger Terminal.
Tug and Yacht Ballet
Be captivated by an elegant nautical ballet. The Tug and Yacht Ballet will unite these unlikely dance partners on Sydney Harbour.
Have a barbecue in a park
Chuck a snag on the barbie in your local park. Find a park with a barbecue near you.
Visit a pool
Cool off with a dip in your local pool. The City’s pools remain open on public holidays.
Jump on a vintage Sydney bus
Travel in style on a vintage Sydney bus. The green and yellow double-deckers will run from Sydney Opera House to Wynyard and back.
Australia Day Live 2019
End your day with a bang with the Australia Day fireworks at Circular Quay. Entertainment starts at 6.30pm and includes dance, choirs, opera, jet skis and heaps more.
Share your Australia Day moments using #AusDaySyd.