Sydney rings in 2026 with record fireworks amid tight security

Sydney welcomed 2026 with an unprecedented fireworks display as more than one million people gathered around the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, under exceptional security measures following the recent Bondi Beach attack.

Largest show in city’s history

At midnight, around nine tons of fireworks were launched, creating nearly 40,000 visual effects. The display erupted simultaneously from the arches of the Harbour Bridge, the sails of the Sydney Opera House, the rooftops of six high-rise buildings, and barges positioned across the harbor, marking the largest New Year’s fireworks show in Sydney’s history.

Tribute to victims

The celebrations included moments of remembrance for the fifteen people killed in the attack that occurred nearly three weeks ago.

At 11:00 pm, crowds observed a minute of silence as the Harbour Bridge was illuminated in white, displaying the words “unity” and “peace,” alongside symbols including a dove and a Hanukkah menorah.

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Community and health messages

Earlier in the evening, at 10:00 pm, the bridge was lit in blue to highlight the work of Beyond Blue and raise awareness about mental health.

At 9:00 pm, families attended the “Calling Country” segment, led by representatives of Australia’s Indigenous communities.

Unprecedented security operation

Authorities implemented the largest security operation in the event’s history, deploying more than 3,000 police officers across key locations and within crowds.

Some units were equipped with specialized weapons, as part of measures aimed at ensuring public safety amid heightened concerns following recent threats.