2025 is drawing to a close, and there’s no better way to start the new year than by watching the dazzling fireworks. The theme this year is All That Sparkles, and you’re invited to dress up and see a shimmering fireworks display across the Melbourne skyline. Look forward to sensational fireworks and laser displays that will light up the sky from 27 rooftops around the CBD. The dazzling eight-minute display is designed to be viewed from afar, so if you can see the city skyline, you can see the fireworks. We’ve found some spectacular places around Melbourne for you to see the New Year’s Eve fireworks, from the official inner city Celebration Zones, to viewpoints further out.
The four official Celebration Zones are free to attend, and feature food trucks, performances and music from 6pm to 1am. These spots will also have family-friendly fireworks from 9:28pm to 9:35pm.
The other lookout points might be a bit quieter than the Celebration Zones, but they’ll still offer a fantastic experience. As this is a busy time of year, be sure to plan ahead, and try to arrive early to account for crowds, road closures or other disruptions. Here are our recommendations.
Flagstaff Gardens
This garden is one of the four official Celebration Zones. Perfect for viewing fireworks in Melbourne, Flagstaff Gardens will also have live entertainment on New Year’s Eve. The celebrations will kick off at 6pm, and there’s heaps of food trucks around to keep your energy up. After the midnight fireworks, the night will end with a DJ set, finishing at 1am.
Kings Domain
Gather in Kings Domain for great views of the fireworks. This park is also one of the family-friendly Celebration Zones. Have fun with DJs, check out the food trucks and marvel at the stunning fireworks. This space is open from 6pm to 1am.
Docklands
Enjoy fireworks and festivities by the water at the official Docklands Celebration Zone. Once again, there will be live entertainment. Scattered around the waterfront, you’ll find plenty of bites to eat. This zone is open from 6pm to 1am.
Treasury Gardens
The final official Celebration Zone, these gardens in East Melbourne will feature splendid city views. Located on the city’s edge, you’ll count down to the New Year with plenty of entertainment and activities. The party starts at 6pm and ends at 1am.
Fed Square
Ring in the New Year with a line-up of free DJs and dancing in the heart of Melbourne. Expect a mix of disco, funk, house and dancefloor classics throughout the night. Bars and restaurants around Fed Square will have special dining packages if you’re interested. Stick around for the midnight countdown and watch the fireworks. The party starts from 7pm. Learn more here.
Birrarung Marr
Take a stroll from Fed Square and head to Birrarung Marr. This park by the Yarra River should provide plenty of skyline views. In this central location, all you’ll need to do is look up and enjoy the show.
St Kilda Beach
Head a little further out to St Kilda and enjoy views of the fireworks by the beach. Stroll along the popular pier and watch the dazzling display from afar, with the added bonus of the little anchored boats bobbing along the waves.
Footscray Park
Head to the Western Lawn at Footscray Park and avoid the midnight rush with their free, family-friendly celebration. You’re invited to come along, pack a picnic or grab a bite from one of the many food trucks on-site. Have fun with performances and DJ mixes on the main stage, as well as carnival rides, roving entertainment and games. Then, watch the fireworks early at 9:30pm. This is an alcohol-free event, and it will run from 6pm to 10:30pm. Learn more about it here.
Edinburgh Gardens, Fitzroy North
Pack a picnic and have a family-friendly New Year’s Eve at Edinburgh Gardens. Watch a film in their pop-up cinema, including an early movie for the kids. Snag a spot on ‘Hipster Hill’ for great views of the fireworks. Please note that alcohol is not permitted during this time. The festivities will kick off at 4pm and will continue until 12:30am. Find out more.
Albert Park Lake
Find a picturesque spot in Albert Park, and see the majestic fireworks and lasers reflect in the lake. Not too far from the city, you’ll enjoy incredible views of the fireworks, while surrounded by the beauty of nature.
Quarries Park, Clifton Hill
Head to Quarries Park in Clifton Hill, relax on one of the open-grass areas and enjoy excellent views of the city skyline. At midnight, watch the sky light up with fireworks.
Wurundjeri Spur Lookout, Kew
This high lookout spot on Yarra Boulevard is great for sunsets, stargazing, and yes, views of the Melbourne fireworks on New Year’s Eve. Enjoy fantastic views of the city, while surrounded by native bushland.
City Lookout, Maribyrnong
This scenic viewpoint next to Quarry Park offers panoramic views of the Melbourne skyline and the valley below.
Ruckers Hill, Northcote
This high spot in Northcote provides endless views of Melbourne’s skyline. Before the midnight fireworks, grab a drink or a bite to eat from a nearby restaurant.
Anderson Park, Hawthorn
This Hawthorn haven features plenty of wide open spaces, shady trees and, most importantly, city views. Take in the terrific sights on New Year’s Eve in this urban oasis.
The Strand and Nelson Place, Williamstown
In Melbourne’s west, Williamstown is a wonderful place to be for New Year’s Eve. Along the streets, The Strand and Nelson Place, you’ll find plenty of green spots with lovely views of Port Phillip Bay, the boats, and Melbourne’s twinkling skyline.
Point Ormond, Elwood
This elevated lookout spot in Elwood is gorgeous any time of the year, but is particularly special on New Year’s Eve. Head up the hill and watch the curving coastline, with the city skyline glimmering in the distance.
Green Point, Brighton
This park by Brighton Beach features views of Melbourne’s skyline, as well as the iconic Brighton Beach Bathing Boxes.