Canberrans will ring in 2026 with fireworks, music and food on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, as the ACT Government unveils plans for New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Four lakeside locations — Rond Terrace, Wendouree Drive, John Dunmore Lang Place, and Ferry Gate at Regatta Point — will host local DJs from 6pm, alongside food trucks and space for picnics.

Fireworks over Central Basin will run twice: a family-friendly 9pm display and a midnight show set to a synchronised soundtrack broadcast on Mix 106.3.

Public transport will be free across the bus and light rail network all day. Passengers are asked to tap on and off as usual to register a zero-dollar fare.

Chief Minister Andrew Barr said the event remained a “much-loved Canberra tradition”.

“This year’s celebrations will bring our community together with spectacular fireworks, great music and local food,” he said.

Maps, transport details and event information are available at nye.events.canberra.com.au.