AUSTRALIA DAY: WHERE TO CELEBRATE IN OZ!
Date Posted: 26/01/2022
Australia Day, celebrated by millions annually on the 26th January, is a chance for Aussies from all walks of life to rejoice in national pride. All across the territories, families, friends, visitors and communities gather to celebrate the diverse society, rich heritage and spirit of Australia.
So whether you would attend a spectacular organised event or enjoy some downtime with family and friends, we are going to round up the best places you can go to celebrate Down Under!
Perth:
Travel to sunny Perth to experience Australia Day’s largest celebration- Skyworks. This event sees over 250,000 people flock to the foreshore for a whole day of excitement. With amusements, obstacle courses, BMX stunt shows and splash parks the fun is endless. Watch the sky fill with planes performing daring aerobatic displays and sky diving formations before erupting with colour in Skyworks’ ultimate finale- Fireworks!
Perth also offers the chance to reflect on the history of Australia. The annual Birak Concert celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island cultures. Here you can experience a variety of fantastic indigenous entertainment from acoustic country singers and rappers to traditional ritual performances.
Sydney:
Whether it’s a barbeque on Bondi Beach or an action-packed street party; Sydney has it all. Begin your day with a nod to Australia’s heritage at Sydney Opera House as artwork from Australia’s First Nations are projected onto the iconic landscape. Head down to Harbour Bridge at Dawn Reflection to see the raising of the flags and the beginning of a spectacular day on the water. Witness the iconic Ferrython Race, Sydney’s historic Tall Ships and the unique Yacht and Boat Ballet; an exceptional event where vessels dance in choreographed routines across the Harbour.
If you are looking for some family fun, Darling Harbour offers a ‘Summer Playground’ perfect for all ages. The festival features live music, cultural performances and outdoor games including wife carrying competitions and thong throwing contests (don’t be alarmed, to us Brits that’s flip flop throwing!) If you’re looking for something a little more colourful, head to one of the oldest parts of Sydney, The Rocks. The annual street party transforms historic cobblestone streets into a vibrant carnival market with food, crafts and street performances.
As night falls, the party in Sydney does not end. Australia Day Live kicks off in the evening in the forecourt of Sydney Opera House for a once-in-a-life time concert experience, showcasing Australia’s most popular performers.
Brisbane:
Start the day off bright and early on a picturesque bike ride around the Scenic Rim where you’ll pass historic First Nation sites. Enjoy the botanic gardens and visit the Mt Coot-tha Summit Lookout – a must see for all visitors, offering breath taking panoramic views of Brisbane City. Once you’re done admiring the sights, spend the rest of Australia Day relaxing at Brisbane’s South Bank. Pack a picnic or barbeque and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of surrounding festivities.
If you are hoping to avoid the hustle and bustle of the big city and want to experience a culinary adventure instead, let your taste buds transport you to the Great Australian Bites Festival. This foodie’s paradise will allow you to feast on both international cuisines from around the globe and classic Australian dishes.
