As the Hunter Valley and its surrounding regions prepare to welcome 2025, a variety of events and fireworks displays are planned to celebrate the New Year. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the festivities in Newcastle, Port Stephens, Maitland, Wollombi, and the Hunter Valley:
Newcastle
Newcastle Foreshore Celebration
Join the community at the Newcastle Foreshore for an inclusive and accessible New Year’s Eve event.
- Time: Festivities commence at 5:00 pm on December 31, 2024.
- Activities:
- Live music performances.
- Food stalls offering a variety of cuisines.
- A sensory zone and quiet area for those seeking a calmer environment.
- An inflatable puppet parade and crafts for children.
- Fireworks: A spectacular display is scheduled for 9:00 pm, with an audio description available for the first time to enhance accessibility.
Transportation: Newcastle Transport will be providing additional services to accommodate attendees.
Port Stephens
McGrath Port Stephens New Year’s Eve Fireworks
Celebrate the New Year along the Nelson Bay foreshore with a dazzling fireworks display.
- Time: Fireworks commence at 9:00 pm on December 31, 2024.
- Activities:
- Set up a picnic with local takeaway along the foreshore.
- Enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere.
- Additional Information:
- The event is alcohol-free, with alcoholic drinks and glass prohibited.
- Local road closures will be in place to support pedestrian safety.
The Anchorage New Year’s Eve Celebration
Experience a luxurious New Year’s Eve at The Anchorage with a gourmet five-course dinner, wine pairings, and live music.
- Time: From 7:00 pm on December 31, 2024.
- Pricing:
- Adults with wine pairing: $235.
- Teens (13-17 years): $169.
- Children (4-12 years): $105.
- Additional Information: Bookings are essential, and the event is currently sold out. To join the waitlist, contact The Anchorage directly.
Maitland
The Levee Riverbank Event
Maitland City Council, in partnership with Valley Estate Agents, is hosting a family-friendly celebration along The Levee Riverbank.
- Time: Festivities commence at 5:00 pm on December 31, 2024.
- Activities:
- Free amusements and face painting for children.
- Live music performances, including acts like The After Party and Pat Capocci.
- A disco playing top hits from 2024.
- A variety of food, beverage, and dessert stalls.
- Fireworks: A spectacular display will light up the night sky at 9:00 pm.
Wollombi
Wollombi Tavern New Year’s Eve Celebration
Celebrate in a rustic setting at the Wollombi Tavern.
- Time: Festivities begin at 6:00 pm on December 31, 2024.
- Activities:
- Live music performances starting at 7:00 pm, featuring acts like Outback Radio with Andy, The Barber, The Usher, Will Crighton & Rueben, with special guest Larry Hughes.
- A BBQ and the bistro will be open, offering a range of food options.
- Local pipers will make an appearance at midnight to welcome the New Year.
- Fireworks: A family-friendly fireworks display is scheduled for 9:00 pm, lasting approximately 30 minutes.
- Additional Information:
- Free camping is available on-site for attendees.
- As the tavern is a licensed venue, no BYO food or drinks are permitted.
- Pets are not allowed during the event.
Hunter Valley
Rydges Resort Hunter Valley, Lovedale
Ring in the New Year with a six-course tasting menu at Redsalt Restaurant and family-friendly festivities with a three-course kids’ menu. Don’t miss the 9:00 pm fireworks that will light up the skies.
Hunter Valley Gardens, Pokolbin
The iconic Christmas Lights Spectacular continues into New Year’s Eve, showcasing over three million lights. The event features a family-friendly atmosphere with a 9:00 pm fireworks display.
Harrigan’s Hunter Valley, Pokolbin
Celebrate with the “Moooove in 25” party featuring live entertainment and a midnight fireworks display.
Château Élan at The Vintage, Pokolbin
Enjoy a sophisticated evening with a five-course dinner paired with premium wines. A stylish way to welcome 2025!
voco Kirkton Park, Pokolbin
An exquisite five-course degustation dinner awaits, complete with Audrey Wilkinson wine pairings and breathtaking views.
Bimbadgen’s Esca Restaurant, Pokolbin
Celebrate with a gourmet five-course