Australia Day 2024: How Sydney Shone

Spectacular Sydney Harbour took centre stage from first light and into the night on Australia Day 2024

 As the sun rose over Sydney Cove on Gadigal land on Australia Day, the Sydney Opera House sails were lit with a powerful 3D aboriginal artwork recognising four key historical figures as a way of acknowledging Australia’s First Peoples at first light. Following this at the nearby Barangaroo Reserve a sacred smoking ceremony took place which cleansed the way for new beginnings and celebrated the Gadigal people of the Eora nation through music, dance, language, storytelling and ceremony.

A day of action then unfolded around the glorious Sydney Harbour with non-stop activities on sea, sky and shore, including a thrilling display by the Royal Australian Air Force “Roulettes”, with jaw dropping loops, rolls and turns, and the fastest-ever Ferry Race, an annual crowd-favourite.

As the sun set, the iconic Sydney Opera House forecourt hosted Australia Day Live, the grand finale concert where Aussie stars entertained the nation, alongside a spectacular fireworks and maritime show spanning Sydney’s Circular Quay, which was presented by the NSW Government in partnership with Destination NSW.

What a spectacular day!

To plan your trip to Sydney, NSW visit sydney.com.