Guide to Australia Day in Wollongong & Illawarra. Events & Fireworks
There’s no doubt about it, Australia Day in Wollongong & Illawarra is simply iconic! Discover what’s on for fun and adventure for all ages this Australia Day, Sunday 26 January 2025 in Wollongong. We’ve created a list of the top Australia Day events near you.
Salsa Sundays at The Icon – Australia Day Long Weekend, Sunday 25 January
Enjoy FREE salsa and bachata classes from 5pm, Happy Hour from 3–7pm, DJ Lalo on the decks until midnight, and live music from Loren Alain with his Latin band Lorenzo Y Su Swing, bringing the sexiest salsa and bachata beats to keep you dancing all night. Feast on traditional Latin American flavours, including The Icon’s famous Colombian homemade empanadas. Book your table now to secure dinner, drinks and your salsa class (limited spots), or call (02) 4244 3737 to book direct.
Breakfast by the Lake, Lake Illawarra, Monday 26 January
Join in on from 8am–12pm for a classic lakeside celebration packed with sunshine, smiles, and great vibes. Kick off the morning with a sizzling BBQ breakfast, then dive into hours of FREE family fun – from slip n slides, water play, and jumping castles to parkour, rock climbing, laser tag, and stand-up paddleboarding. Kids will love the face painting and arts & crafts, while the whole family can enjoy live music and browse vibrant market stalls. With food, fun, and festivities all in one spot, it’s the perfect family day out – don’t miss it! Brought to you by Shellharbour City Council. Learn more here.
MMJ Aquathon, Sunday 26 January
Illawarra’s Favourite Summer Fitness Event is Back!
The MMJ Wollongong Aquathon returns on Monday 26 January 2026 (Public Holiday) at the stunning Wollongong Harbour! For over 25 years, this iconic swim-run event has been a highlight of the local community calendar, welcoming participants of all ages for a day of fitness, fun, and charity. Take part in the swim-run Aquathon, or join the Blue Mile 5k Fun Run — with distances for kids (6–13), teens, and adults, plus solo or tag-team options. Enjoy the fantastic vibe, finisher medals, family fun, and the chance to support the community and the Black Dog Institute. Don’t miss out — entries are now open here!
Joylands Carnival – Windang, 26 December – Australia Day 26 January
Joylands Carnival is bringing the fun to Windang these Christmas and Summer School Holidays, lighting up Windang Memorial Park every night from Boxing Day, 26 December 2025 through to Australia Day, 26 January 2026. Running nightly from 6pm–10pm (ticket box opens 5.30pm), this classic seaside carnival features thrill rides, family favourites, sideshow games and loads of delicious food trucks. Pre-book online to save on 4-hour unlimited ride armbands, which can be used on any night of the carnival, or purchase ride coupons on-site. Expect big fun, bright lights and non-stop excitement all summer long.
Sunset Cinema Wollongong is back! 11 December – 28 March – get 20% off tickets with What’s On In Wollongong
Get ready for magical summer nights under the stars as Sunset Cinema returns to Wollongong from 11 December 2025 to 28 March 2026! Set in the beautiful Wollongong Botanic Garden, this outdoor cinema is the perfect way to unwind with friends, family, or someone special. Enjoy a stellar lineup featuring festive favourites like Love Actually and Elf, along with exciting new releases including Wicked: For Good, Zootopia 2, and Now You See Me: Now You Don’t.
Get 20% off tickets with What’s On In Wollongong: Use discount code WhatsOnGong20 at the online checkout when purchasing your tickets online.
You’ll find all the movie-night essentials on-site — from freshly popped popcorn and sweet treats to a food truck and licensed bar — or you can pack your own picnic for a classic outdoor experience. Children under 3 are FREE. Book your 20% off tickets now and enjoy the ultimate summer cinema experience!
MORE AUSTRALIA DAY EVENTS HAPPENING ACROSS WOLLONGONG & THE ILLAWARRA COMING SOON – STAY TUNED!
We offer our gratitude and deep respect to the lands, waters and skies of Dharawal Country. We stand in solidarity with its traditional custodians, the Dharawal and Wodi Wodi people, whose sovereignty was never ceded.
After more events and businesses near you? Never suffer FOMO again with our Weekly Newsletter sent straight to your inbox! Sign up HERE.
You might also like:
Your Guide to Lunch and Dinner Specials From Local Restaurants in and Around Wollongong
Best Things to do in Thirroul: Insider’s Guide
Planning Your Wedding. Wollongong & Illawarra’s Best & Secret Venues. Get Inspired
The Sea Cliff Bridge. A local’s guide to Driving it, Walking it, Parking and What to do Near it
5 Best Walks in Wollongong and the Illawarra your Family will Love
WEA Illawarra. Short Courses, Training, Work Skills & Education For All
Best Things to do in Wollongong: Best Attractions, Best Eats, Best Pubs, Best Night Life
Dining Guide to Thirroul – where to eat, where to drink
10+ Best Craft Breweries in Wollongong & Illawarra
Beachside Dining in Wollongong – Local Cafes and Restaurants
Need more Wollongong eat and drink inspo? Click here
8 of the best lesser known things to do in and around Wollongong
Live Music Wollongong Guide. Find Live Music Venues, Bands and Gigs Near Me
About the Author: Lisa Hagan
Lisa grew up in Thirroul and is a mum of four children. A student to life, Lisa loves learning and searching for the most fun things to do with her kids. She loves exploring the Illawarra and its surroundings.
Main title photo image c/o The Courier Mail