Three ways to celebrate – Townsville’s epic NYE line-up
Date published: 24 December 2025
Townsvillians are invited to choose their own adventure this New Year’s Eve, with an array of activities and fireworks set to light up the night sky at three locations on offer across this city on December 31.
Whether marking the occasion with a movie under the stars, dancing the night away on The Strand or a quiet night on the island is your pick, Townsville City Council has you covered when it comes to fun, free and family-friendly options for New Year’s Eve.
Townsville Mayor Nick Dametto said the city’s New Year’s Eve events were a highlight for locals and visitors alike.
“Townsville knows how to celebrate, and this year we’re very excited to celebrate the end of 2025 in a big way,” Cr Dametto said.
“New Year’s Eve is about more than fireworks – it’s about taking a moment to reflect on the year that’s been and kicking off the next one with a bang.
“After a big 2025, we all deserve a night to let our hair down and enjoy ourselves.
“Whether you’re catching a movie at Riverway or dancing to The Potbelleez on The Strand, there’s something for everyone.
“As they say, the way you end one year is how you begin the next so set the tone for a positive 2026 by having a great night with family and friends under the stars.”
With the night sky set to light up at three locations, this year’s New Year’s Eve celebrations are ones not to be missed – see further details about what’s on below:
Riverway Stadium, Riverway Precinct
Pack a picnic rug and enjoy food trucks and a movie under the stars!
- 4pm – Gates open
- 6pm – Movie on the big screen: Puss in Boots: The Last Wish
- 8pm – Fireworks
- Sounds on the Sand – Strand Park, The Strand
Enjoy an amazing night of live music, food trucks and amusements!
Free buses will operate every 15 minutes between Dean Street carpark and Strand Park from 4pm to 12:40am for easy access.
- 4pm – Event kicks off
- 6pm – Midnight – Live music on the main stage featuring an incredible lineup: Tropical Low, Winifred, Dubbzone, DJ Nate Swan, Josie, MiG, ARYEL, Late November and THE POTBELLEEZ!
- 8pm – Fireworks
- Midnight – Fireworks
- Nelly Bay, Magnetic Island
- Midnight – Fireworks
For more information about Council’s New Year’s Eve Celebrations, head to the What’s On Townsville website.
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Promote your local sporting or fitness organisation for free at Council’s Get Active Sign On in 2026. Apply online now to be an Exhibitor at this free community event.
New Year's Eve Celebrations
The countdown to New Year's Eve is on! Celebrate with Council's free events across three locations: Riverway, The Strand and Magnetic Island.
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Enjoy 2 hours of free parking in the city this December. No need to use the meter or the Townsville Parking app in 2P zones, but time limits still apply.