The 2023 New Year’s Eve fireworks went off with a bang at Lake Burley Griffin. Photo: Thomas Lucraft.
If you needed another reason to get out and enjoy Canberra’s festivities this New Year’s Eve, then here it is – public transport will be free all day.
The ACT is getting ready to kick off 2026 with a spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin on 31 December 2025.
An ACT Government spokesperson said bus and light rail services will be free all day, so you can leave the car at home and enjoy a stress-free trip to the festivities.
Just tap on and off as usual to register a zero-dollar fare.
There will be four celebration areas along the lake: Rond Terrace, Wendouree Drive, John Dunmore Lang Place (Commonwealth Place) and Ferry Gate (Regatta Point).
Each location will feature local DJs from 6 pm as well as a variety of food trucks.
Two fireworks displays over the Central Basin, which is the main section of Lake Burley Griffin between Commonwealth and Kings Avenue Bridges, will light up the sky at both 9 pm and midnight.
A synchronised soundtrack will be broadcast live on Mix 106.3.
“Tune in for the perfect soundtrack whether you’re lakeside or celebrating at home,” the government spokesperson said.
While public transport is free all day, if you are driving, make sure you check parking options and routes in advance.
“I want to wish all Canberrans and their families a safe and happy new year,” Chief Minister Andrew Barr said.
Due to construction, there will be no activation at Barrine Drive (Regatta Point) this year.
More details, including maps, parking, and transport information, can be found online.
