Top 7 things to do on Australia Day 2026
What to do on Australia Day in Sydney?
You could be forgiven for thinking that Sydney parties it’s hardest on New Year’s Eve, but you would be mistaken. Australia Day is the biggest day on the Australian Calendar. There are actually more than 7 top things to do on Australia Day in Sydney but the main one is just to be there to enjoy it.
Australia Day, Monday, 26th January 2026
Our official national day Australia Day is celebrated every year on the 26th January. Fear not, Monday is a public holiday. 🙂
How best to enjoy Australia Day
Find a good vantage point around Sydney Harbour, as you may be there for a while, relax and enjoy watching Sydney’s favourite public transport vessels go bow to bow in the Ferrython, followed by the costumed boats cruise past during the Best Dressed Vessels Competition and the Tall Ships Race. Watching events unfold on Sydney Harbour is one of the top things to do on Australia Day.
No. 1 Sydney Harbour Splash
Anyone can take part in the Sydney Harbour Splash provided you can actually swim. Over a thousand will brave the harbour and have a splashy great time. There are even prizes up for grabs.
Sydney Harbour Splash
No. 2 Ferrython – Sydney Harbour
Dressed up in their party frocks Sydney’s fleet of hard-working ferries adorn the harbour they know so well. Ferrython is a free event to celebrate the end of the festival as well as modern Australia’s birthday. A fun way to enjoy the race is pick out your ferry and cheer it on as they race for the finish line under the harbour bridge.
No. 3 Tall Ships Race – Bradley’s Head to the Sydney Harbour Bridge
“And all I ask is a tall ship and a star to steer her by..” We have more than one on display and the stars are the crew making it all happen. Welcome to Sydney’s Tall Ships Race, these historic vessels remind us of our humble beginnings and the tough life endured by most early Europeans that came to these shores. But mostly it’s just an impressive sight to witness.
Where is the best place to see the action?
If you are looking for a good vantage point to see all the Australia Day action on the Harbour, try my personal favourite, which is currently listed at 43, Shark Island one of the top things to do on Australia Day in Sydney.
Shark Island
No. 4 The Rocks Australia Day
What do you get if you mix music with the Rocks? Just sweet music. Enjoy free live music from numerous singers and songwriters from all around Australia.
What’s on at the Rocks
No. 5 Darling Harbour
It is party time at Darling Harbour on Australia Day and everybody is invited to a fun and entertaining day. There will be rhythm, there will be song, there will be soul but it’s not just about the music – there will be dance as well. 🙂 This is Darling Harbour so there will be loads for the kids to do and to be entertained by.
Darling Harbour Australia Day
No. 6 Australia Day Parramatta
The fun starts at 4pm at Parramatta Park with rides, roving entertainers and food stalls providing the energy for what’s to come. As the crowds and excitement builds the main acts will hit the stage. Shannon Noll and Rogue Traders are both scheduled to appear with more acts to follow. The highlights include illuminated hot air balloons set to music. Should be a special day.
Parramatta
No. 7 Australia Day on the Northern Beaches
Look out for talented entertainers and musicians and more besides at various popular locations. Follow the link below for more on this and other events on the gorgeous Northern Beaches of Sydney on Australia Day.
Australia Day on the Northern Beaches
Bonus – Top 10 Things to do during the Summer in Sydney
If you aren’t that keen on celebrating the day with thousands of others have a look at the:
Top 10 Summer things to do in Sydney
for other ideas along within the 100 plus list of:
Top things to do in Sydney
More things to do on Australia Day
The Sydney Festival is on its last legs but still going and there should be plenty of things to do during Sydney’s school summer holidays. If you are strapped for cash there are many free things to do in Sydney.
Don’t give up on a good thing to do
There’s load more good stuff including things to do close to Sydney and romantic things to do in Sydney. Whatever you decide to do, Happy Australia Day!