Australia Day in Parramatta Park

4pm–9:30pm on Monday 26 January 

EVENT UPDATE: Due to weather conditions, the Balloon Glow has be changed to a Fire and Light Show starting at 9:15pm. The Fire and Light Show will 
happen at the original Balloon Glow location.

Celebrate Australia Day in Parramatta Park with live music, family fun and a spectacular Balloon Glow finale. 

 

This Australia Day, join us in Parramatta Park for a vibrant evening of live music, family-friendly entertainment and the much-loved Balloon Glow - a spectacular hot air balloon illumination lighting up the night sky. 

Set in the heart of Parramatta Park, this free event invites everyone to come together, celebrate community and enjoy a shared moment of colour, warmth and wonder. 

As we gather, we also reflect. Join us as we recognise the 125th anniversary of Federation, reflecting on the moment Australia came together as a nation. 

While we celebrate, we acknowledge the 65,000+ years of continuous culture of First Nations people and their ongoing connection to Country.

 

 

Australia Day Concert From 4pm

Celebrate Australia Day with an unforgettable evening of live music starting from 4pm. Hosted by comedian Tahir ( “Here Come The Habibs” and “Housos), the concert kicks off with indie artist Olivia Frances and her uplifting nature-inspired folk-pop sound. Then get ready for headline performances by Aussie favourites Shannon Noll, Rogue Traders and CDB, bringing iconic hits and high-energy vibes to Parramatta Park

Headline Artists 

Shannon Noll

A singer passionately performs on stage, holding a microphone and reaching upwards. Warm lights and smoke create an energetic, vibrant atmosphere.

Shannon Noll

From 7:30pm

Australia’s beloved rocker hits the stage at Parramatta Park with the anthems we all know and love. From What About Me to Lift, Shannon’s powerhouse vocals and down-to-earth charm promise a concert experience that feels like home. Loved across generations, “Nollsie” brings the energy, the nostalgia and the unmistakable Aussie spirit.

Rogue Traders

Four stylish individuals stand confidently; two men in dark attire and two women, one in a sparkling dress, exuding a cool, modern vibe.

Rogue Traders

From 6:15pm

Get ready to move - Rogue Traders are bringing the beats that defined a generation and still light up the dance floor today. With electro-pop energy and hits like Voodoo Child and Way to Go!, their sound is bold, infectious and made for celebration. This is the music that gets everyone on their feet, turning the night into one big party.

CDB

Four men stand closely together against a gray background, wearing casual, modern outfits. They project a sense of camaraderie and confidence.

CDB

From 5:05pm

Get ready to groove with Australian R&B legends, CDB! Join them for an electrifying night as CDB takes the stage to perform their hits and all the 90’s bangers from that era. From chart-topping singles like Let's Groove to fan favourites like Good Times, CDB promises to deliver a show that will have you dancing all night long. 

Balloon Glow

From 9pm

Experience the magic of Balloon Glow as vibrant hot air balloons light up the night sky in Parramatta Park. This spectacular display is a unique Sydney experience, creating a breathtaking backdrop for Australia Day celebrations and creating a shared moment to remember.  

A bearded man wearing sunglasses and a cap stands smiling at an outdoor barbecue event, holding two large, grilled meats in front of a "Blackbear BBQ" tent.

BBQ Stage

Our popular BBQ Demonstration Zone returns bringing sizzling flavours and expert tips from some of the best in the business.

Hosted by Shannon Walker, member of the Australian Butcher Team and all-round BBQ enthusiast, this is your chance to learn from the masters and taste incredible dishes hot off the grill.

  • 4:15pm – Trent Kelly (Koori Kinnections) Join proud Yuin and Wailwan man Trent Kelly as he shares how bushfoods can inspire contemporary dishes.
  • 5:00pm – Dario Espejel (Zócalo Mexican) Get a taste of Latino BBQ traditions as Dario Espejel fires up Al Pastor pork skewers.
  • 5:45pm – Ben Huppatz (BlackBear BBQ) BBQ lovers won’t want to miss Ben Huppatz as he prepares tender lamb shoulder and tacos, showcasing the smoky flavours that BlackBear BBQ is famous for.
  • 6:30pm – Nick Rogers (Carolina Smoke) Craving American-style BBQ? Nick Rogers will share his secrets for perfect smash burgers, straight from the Carolina Smoke playbook.
  • 7:15pm – Anna Manlulo (Filipino Food Movement Australia) Finish the evening with a Filipino feast as Anna Manlulo and chef Anthony Musa transforms chicken and seafood into vibrant dishes full of flavour and tradition.
     
Smiling woman with long hair holds a beer at an outdoor bar. Another person raises a glass to her. The setting is warm, friendly, and social.

Pull up stumps at the Mountain Culture Beer Bar!

This Australia Day Mountain Culture Beer Co are bringing the brews to Parramatta Park. Our massive outdoor bar is located adjacent to the main stage where legends CBD, Rogue Traders and Shannon Noll will hit the stage before the iconic balloon glow illuminates the night sky. Grab some tasty food from our BBQ zone and then head on over!

Mountain Culture supports the responsible service of alcohol

A woman and three children enjoy a picnic on a colourful blanket at a park. They smile and laugh while eating; a lively event unfolds in the background.

Food & Drinks

Bring your picnic rug and enjoy a relaxed evening of great food and drinks this Australia Day. 

From dumplings to gozleme and fried chicken, you’ll find a mix of global flavours and local favourites to satisfy every craving. Plus, don’t miss the BBQ Zone, where talented chefs fire up the grill for mouth-watering dishes for you to enjoy.

Family Entertainment

Reptile Display

A child gently touches a bearded dragon held by an adult. The scene conveys curiosity and learning, with a focus on the textured scales of the reptile.

Reptile Display

4pm - 8pm

Get up close with Australian reptiles in an interactive experience. Discover their stories and how we can protect Australia’s unique wildlife.

Beasts of Oz

A lively outdoor scene depicts people wearing large, colourful animal masks and costumes. The atmosphere is festive, with a backdrop of autumn trees and buildings.

Beasts of Oz

4pm - 9pm

Wild Aussie animals come to life in a giant puppet spectacle. Don’t miss the Sydney debut of koala, magpie and Tasmanian devil.
 

Camel Rides

A group of people riding camels along a sunlit beach. The riders wear white helmets, and the ocean and blue sky create a serene, adventurous atmosphere.

Camel Rides

4pm - 8pm

Enjoy a relaxing camel ride - suitable for all ages. 

Make Your Own Nawi with Koori Kinnections

A person holds a large stick insect on their hand. Background shows a patterned fabric with earthy tones. The scene feels calm and tactile.

Make Your Own Nawi with Koori Kinnections

4pm - 8pm

Join Aboriginal educators to create mini nawi canoe and explore their deep relationships between people, water and Country.

The Nature Fix

A man and two young girls sit on a log in a forest, crafting with twine. The girls look focused, the setting is lush and green, creating a peaceful, engaging mood.

The Nature Fix

4pm - 8pm

A gentle invitation to slow down and reconnect with nature through the five senses for everyone and every age! This immersive experience offers a hands-on taster of the nature-based programs delivered by the Greater Sydney Parklands.
 

Mini Balloon Bikes

A colourful statue of a person riding a bicycle with a large red and blue balloon attached, set against a bright blue sky with fluffy clouds. The scene is whimsical and playful.

Mini Balloon Bikes

7pm - 9pm

Step into the whimsical world of airship travel! Catch eccentric aeronauts, Beeswax and Bottlecaps, on mini balloon bikes for roving fun and photo moments.

Amusement Rides

A smiling boy sits in a colourful, toy-themed amusement park ride. Creating a joyful atmosphere.

Amusement Rides

Take a spin on classic amusement rides including Dodgems, the Cup and Saucer, and Beach Cruzin Kombi.

AFL

People gather in a sunny park near an inflatable archway that reads "AFL." Trees in the background and a festive, cheerful atmosphere.

AFL

Stop by for some AFL fun. Try skills and drills, practice ball handling and kicking, and join quick games for all ages.

Hula Hoop & Bubble Performers

A woman joyfully spins a red hula hoop above her head at an outdoor festival. She wears a colourful dress, surrounded by a lively crowd under a sunny sky.

Hula Hoop & Bubble Performers

Watch roving performers bring colour and movement to the day with dazzling hula hoop artistry and enchanting bubble displays.

A large crowd gathers on a grassy field to enjoy an outdoor concert under a partly cloudy sky. The red stage is vibrant, and the scene is lively and cheerful.

Getting Here and Frequently Asked Questions

Explore all the frequently asked questions below to plan a fun filled Australia Day in Parramatta Park.  

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Partners & Sponsors

These events are proudly presented by City of Parramatta

PARKROYAL Parramatta are the official accommodation partner of Australia Day at Parramatta Park. 

Parramatta Park are the official venue partner of Australia Day at Parramatta Park. 

Mountain Culture Beer Co is the Official Beverage Partner of Australia Day at Parramatta Park. 

Australia Day in Parramatta Park is assisted by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council.