Perth is gearing up for a spectacular farewell to 2025, with venues across the city preparing unforgettable celebrations to welcome 2026. From iconic hotel parties to massive public festivals, there's an option for every reveller seeking the perfect vantage point for the midnight fireworks.
Raffles Hotel Promises Premier Riverside NYE Party
The historic Raffles Hotel in Applecross is shaping up as one of the must-visit spots this New Year's Eve. The iconic venue has organised its own exclusive fireworks display, promising about seven minutes of pyrotechnics right on the Swan River.
Venue manager Simone Rea confirmed the hotel expects to be at full capacity for what she describes as an "unmissable event." The Raffles will have two bars open, three dance floors, and has extended its alfresco dining area into the carpark, which will feature a live DJ.
"We have nearly a thousand people reserved for the general party, and our upstairs VIP tables are sold out," Ms Rea said. The hotel is offering free ticketed entry before 8pm for those wanting to secure a prime spot for the city's midnight fireworks over the river.
Junior manager Maelle Colin encouraged people to act quickly, stating, "I'd say people should RSVP for their free ticket if they want to secure their place. We are literally right on the water in a massive venue."
Increased Security and a City Full of Options
Authorities across Australia are encouraging safe celebrations but have warned that major community events will see a strong police presence. In Western Australia, this will be under Operation Dalewood, announced following the Bondi terrorist attack two weeks ago.
A WA Police spokesperson said the public may notice an increased police presence, including officers carrying rifles. "WA Police does not generally comment on security arrangements for events, however the public can be assured there will be sufficient and appropriate resources deployed throughout New Year's Eve," the spokesperson stated.
Beyond the Raffles, Perth partygoers will be spoilt for choice. A diverse range of ticketed events includes:
- The Paddington Hotel in Mt Hawthorn channelling 80s underground vibes.
- A massive Oxford St block party across 11 Leederville venues with eight stages.
- A Great Gatsby-themed cocktail party at Hillarys Beach Club.
- Dance festivals at Ice Cream Factory, NYE on the Beach at Port Beach, and SNACK NYE at Claremont Showgrounds.
Family-Friendly Fun and Public Fireworks Displays
For families, Gloucester Park in East Perth is hosting a trackside celebration with pony rides, a kids' obstacle course, a band, and midnight fireworks, with gates opening at 5pm.
The main public festivities will once again centre on the Swan River foreshore. Elizabeth Quay will feature a live DJ on a floating stage, food trucks, and an early fireworks show at 8:30pm, followed by the main midnight sky show. Activities begin from 5pm with face painting, glitter stations, and LED hula-hoop workshops.
Nearby, the Supreme Court Gardens will host a LotteryWest Family Fun Zone with free carnival rides and roving performers. Barrack Square will present the Circus Game Show from 6:45pm to 8:15pm, followed by an Aerial Cabaret performance from 9:00pm to 10:00pm.
Yagan Square returns with a free, high-energy family party hosted by Famous Sharron, kicking off at 7:30pm. It will feature Perth's largest digital countdown and the popular 'Confetti Wishes' installation, where thousands of hopes for 2026 will be released at midnight.
Additional fireworks displays will also light up the sky at locations including Thomson Bay on Rottnest, the Breakwater Marina at Mindarie, Mandurah foreshore, Halls Head, Rockingham Jetty, and Sandalford Winery in Caversham at various times throughout the evening.
