Melbourne to “sparkle” as 500,000 revellers expected in the city for New Year’s Eve

Melbourne is preparing to welcome more than half a million people into the CBD for New Year’s Eve, with the City of Melbourne unveiling its biggest program yet featuring rooftop fireworks, laser shows, live entertainment and four major Celebration Zones across the city.

Under the glittering theme All That Sparkles, the 2025 festivities will span six square kilometres, transforming the city into a giant open-air party. Twenty-seven buildings will launch midnight fireworks in sync with a choreographed laser display, creating a skyline spectacle visible across Melbourne.

Lord Mayor Nick Reece said the program would once again cement Melbourne as Australia’s premier destination for New Year’s Eve.

“There’s no better place to ring in the New Year than Melbourne,” he said. “Only in the city can you experience a vibe like no other – fireworks, laser shows, DJs, live music and more. Our New Year’s Eve program supports jobs, fills venues and gives local traders a major economic lift wherever the skyline comes into view.”

Festivities begin at 6pm across four free, family-friendly Celebration Zones at Flagstaff Gardens, Treasury Gardens, Kings Domain and Docklands. Each zone will feature Melbourne DJs, live bands, dance workshops, food trucks and big screens streaming entertainment throughout the evening. Families can catch early fireworks at 9.30pm before the main countdown at midnight.

The eight-minute midnight soundtrack, created by Nova 100’s Jase & Lauren, will play across the zones and can be streamed by those celebrating from home.

The CBD’s hospitality sector is also gearing up for one of its biggest nights of the year, with events spanning waterside venues, rooftop bars and concert halls. Afloat, The Boatbuilders Yard, Le Meridien’s pool deck and the newly reopened Waterside Hotel are among the venues hosting New Year’s celebrations.

Music lovers can attend a gala concert by John Foreman’s Australian Pops Orchestra at the Melbourne Recital Centre, while QT Melbourne’s rooftop will feature BLUSH’KO, the Lazy Boys and DJ A1NE in a curated program by Bartier.

The council’s tourism and events portfolio head Cr Mark Scott said this year’s display would be the city’s most spectacular to date.

“Melbourne will shine brighter than ever, with 27 rooftops lighting up the skyline,” he said. “Get set for the biggest laser and light show in the southern hemisphere – a special moment that brings families and friends together and drives a surge of activity for businesses right across the city.”

Significant pedestrian detours and road closures will be in place, with Flinders St, Princes Bridge and surrounding streets closed to foot traffic from 10.30pm. The City of Melbourne is urging crowds to plan ahead, expect delays and follow instructions from marshals and emergency services.

Public transport will be the easiest way to travel, with additional trains, trams and buses running into the city before 10pm. For those celebrating at home, Channel 9 will broadcast 2025: A Year in Review from 11pm, crossing live to Melbourne’s fireworks and laser show at midnight.

Full event details, safety information and road closures are available via the City of Melbourne’s website.