The countdown to 2026 is officially on, and the Sunshine Coast is getting ready to farewell the year with fireworks, family-friendly celebrations and plenty of parties by the water.
From Caloundra to Noosa, there’s no shortage of ways to ring in the New Year — but it’s worth planning ahead with traffic changes, road closures and limited parking in place.
Sunshine Coast Council is supporting four fireworks displays across three key locations, all of which have alcohol and glass-free viewing areas.
- Coolum – 8.30pm
- Caloundra – 9.30pm
- Mooloolaba – 8.30pm and midnight
Mooloolaba
Due to construction works from the Mooloolaba revitalisation project, both fireworks displays will be launched from an offshore barge in front of the HMAS Brisbane Lookout.
“The preparations are underway, and the barge is on the way where we will have fireworks behind me for New Years Eve,” Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said.
“It really is going to be a wonderful event. It is for everyone — right across the Sunshine Coast.”
Spectators can enjoy views stretching from Maroochydore Beach to Point Cartwright.
From 5pm to midnight, family-friendly entertainment and roving performers will be spread across HMAS Brisbane Lookout, Northern Parklands and Beach Terrace.
Related story: ‘We listened’: midnight fireworks returning after hiatus
Food trucks will operate at HMAS Brisbane Lookout, Beach Terrace and Mooloolaba Esplanade, while cafes, restaurants and traders along the esplanade will remain open.
Coolum and Caloundra
The Coolum Lions Club will host a family-friendly celebration at Tickle Park from 5pm to 9pm, featuring roving performers, food trucks, light entertainment and an 8.30pm fireworks display.
At Kings Beach Amphitheatre, the Sunshine Coast Official Food Truck Association will bring rides, face painting, roving entertainment and food trucks from 4pm to 10pm, capped off with a 9.30pm fireworks show.
Noosa
Noosa Marina, Tewantin will host a free New Year’s Eve celebration from 5pm, with live music, DJs and a 10pm fireworks display over the water.
Along Gympie Terrace, families can enjoy a picnic on the foreshore before 9pm fireworks on the Noosa River, while Ricky’s will once again stage a 10pm riverside fireworks display (restaurant bookings essential).
Parties, cruises and NYE events
Those looking for a ticketed event or party can also check out:
- Sunshine Beach Surf Club – New Year’s Eve party
- Miss Moneypenny’s, Hastings Street – RAW ORDIO’s 18+ mediterranean-themed takeover until 2am
- Noosa Queen sunset cruise – relaxed 2-hour cruise from 5.30pm
- Pomona Distilling Co – 18+ NYE country hoe down
- Pier 33 – Marina-side celebration with live entertainment and drinks package
- Coolum Beach Hotel – 2000s/2010s-themed NYE party
- Coastal Cruises Mooloolaba – 18+ DJ cruise with cocktails and coastal views
Getting there
Motorists should expect delays, with a reduced speed limit of 40km/h along Alexandra Parade during the event.
- Beach Terrace: closed from 1pm, December 30 to 3am, January 1
- HMAS Brisbane Lookout car park: closed from 1.30pm, December 30 to 3am, January 1
- Brisbane Road: vehicle access to Mooloolaba Esplanade closed from 3pm, December 31 to 1am, January 1
With limited parking available at all sites, revellers are encouraged to plan ahead.
- Buses: 50-cent fares apply, with extra services on routes 600 and 620 every 15 minutes from 6pm to 1.30am
- Free BikePark: Supervised bike, e-bike and scooter parking at Mooloolaba Esplanade opposite Meta Street (registration required)
- Uber: Dedicated drop-off zone outside Northwind Beachfront Holiday Apartments
- Taxi: Existing taxi ranks operating all night
- Ferry: Mooloolaba Ferry services running between Kawana Waters Hotel and The Wharf
Special event parking will be available at PARKnGO Mooloolaba Central for a $10 flat rate from 2pm until 2am (first come, first served).
All roads and car parks will reopen by 3am on New Year’s Day.
A safe and sustainable celebration
Council advises pet owners to follow RSPCA guidelines during fireworks, while accessibility is available along the Esplanade and Northern Parklands.
Environmentally, the fireworks use eco-friendly materials, with post-event litter collection, beach sweeping and sand grooming scheduled for New Year’s Day.
