When and where to watch the New Year’s Eve 2019/20 fireworks in Brisbane

Somehow, the end of the year is almost upon us and there’s not much time to lock in your plans for New Year’s Eve celebrations in Brisbane. We know, it’s crazy. But nevertheless, it’s time to get our collective heads sorted and start preparing for the biggest night of the year. The good news is this city knows how to throw a party and there’s plenty happening on December 31. Whether you’re a hopeless romantic seeking an intimate evening for two, a family searching for child-friendly fun, a party animal gearing up for an all-nighter or anything in between, there’s no shortage of options for revellers of all ages and budgets. Brisbane’s laid-back lifestyle, iconic riverside precincts and gorgeous city skyline lend it a charming air on New Year’s Eve as we welcome another journey around the sun.

When are Brisbane’s New Year’s Eve fireworks taking place?

Brisbane’s official fireworks display will take place in Southbank along the Brisbane River, giving onlookers a spectacular show over the water and the lights of the CBD. The family fireworks will kick off at 8:30pm so the little ones can enjoy the atmosphere without staying awake until the early hours of the morning. As always, the main fireworks will begin at midnight after a countdown to help you start the new decade with a literal bang.

The best places to watch the fireworks

Given the central location of the fireworks display, there are countless viewpoints throughout the city from which you can enjoy the show. However, a number of these spots are head and shoulders above the rest thanks to clear, unobstructed views of the skyline above Southbank and plenty of space for people to gather. Without further ado, here are the top spots to watch Brisbane’s spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks in 2019.

Clem Jones Promenade

The first place to consider is the one right in front of where the fireworks will be set off. The length of the Clem Jones Promenade encompassing Streets Beach, River Quay Green and everything between the Victoria and Goodwill bridges is where it’s all happening, so you’ll feel well and truly in the thick of the action. The area is typically packed with food trucks and casual entertainment on NYE and offers the most direct view of the fireworks over the skyscrapers across the river.

Kangaroo Point Cliffs

If you head a bit further around the river bend from Southbank you’ll find Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park. While it’s worth visiting on any day of the year, New Year’s Eve is as good a time as any thanks to the sprawling views of the city skyline nestled in the bend of the Brisbane River. Expect plenty of people to be joining you, but there are multiple spots in the area that will give you a great view of the show.

Eagle Street Pier

If you’d prefer to watch the sky light up from the CBD side of the river, Eagle Street Pier is a spot to seriously consider. The area is home to a number of popular restaurants serving up high-end Italian, Asian fusion, casual seafood, classic schnitzels and everything in between, while the several neighbouring bars will be more than happy to put a glass of celebratory champagne in your hand. The perfect place to drink and dine the night away.

City Botanic Gardens

It’s hard to argue against the City Botanic Gardens as the ideal haunt for the final hours of the year. Just like most of the locations on this list, it’s well worth checking out on any day of the year – especially when the crowds are a little thinner. Nonetheless, hanging out in the city’s lush oasis on December 31 is a great way to soak up the festivities in a more relaxed, natural setting.

Mount Coot-tha

Prefer to get a little closer to the stars? The famous Mount Coot-tha is well worth the 20 minute drive from the city and allows you to enjoy the fireworks display without needing to nurse a sore neck in the morning. Panoramic views of Brisbane from almost 300 metres high will set the mood for a magical New Year’s Eve away from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can still expect some crowds, but you won’t experience the same throngs you’d see in the city.

Captain Burke Park

Back in the city, there’s another popular gathering point for the midnight fireworks and that’s Captain Burke Park at the tip of Kangaroo Point. Perch yourself on grass on the western side for CBD views similar to that of the Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park, or hit up the eastern side for an alternative view of the fireworks with the Story Bridge in the foreground. Head down early to get the perfect spot and make a night of it.

Something special…

If none of these quite tickle your sense of grandeur and you want your last night in 2019 to be truly unforgettable, the Wheel of Brisbane is giving you the chance to have the ultimate NYE experience in a private, air-conditioned gondola. The wheel’s prime Southbank location puts it right in front of the main fireworks show, allowing you to watch the spectacular display from as high as 60 metres above the ground with 360-degree views of the city as it celebrates the arrival of 2020. Be sure to book your tickets ASAP and contact the team to enquire about add-ons like glasses of wine, nibbles and a photo package.

Looking for affordable accommodation in the heart of Brisbane?

Capri by Fraser has more than 200 luxury hotel suites in an unbeatable location smack bang in the centre of the CBD, making it the ideal New Year’s Eve accommodation in Brisbane. Whether you choose a Studio Deluxe, Studio Executive, Studio Premier or One Bedroom Executive, our apartments and facilities offer the luxury of a five-star hotel without the eye-watering price tag. Enjoy a thoughtfully designed suite complete with modern furnishings and appliances, unlimited Wi-Fi, private kitchenette, an ergonomic work desk and more – all within 10 minutes walk from Brisbane’s most popular city hotspots, including many of the NYE viewpoints listed above. Book your accommodation online and be sure to take advantage of our special offers, including the chance to save 10% if you book 30 days in advance. During your stay, don’t forget to pop down to our in-house restaurant, Black Fire, for a memorable meal inspired by Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine and incorporating the finest seasonal and local ingredients.