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.
After even more January Long Weekend events inspo? You can check out all the events happening on the January Long Weekend, 24 -26 January, across Wollongong, Shellharbour and the Illawarra here!
Australia Day Breakfast by the Lake, Tuesday 26 January
Celebrate Australia Day, Tuesday 26 January 2027, at beautiful Reddall Reserve, Lake Illawarra! Bring your picnic rug + the family for a morning of delicious BBQ brekkie, live music, market stalls + FREE family entertainment by the water. Running 8am–12pm, it’s the perfect way to kick off Australia Day with family + friends! Plan your day out here!
MMJ Wollongong Aquathon, Tuesday 26 January, 2027
Illawarra’s favourite summer community fitness event, the MMJ Wollongong Aquathon, is back on Tuesday 26 January 2027 at beautiful Wollongong Harbour! Now in its 25th+ year, this much-loved event brings together swim-run Aquathons for kids aged 6–13 and adults, solo and tag-team options, plus the popular Blue Mile 5K Fun Run. Expect a brilliant community atmosphere, finisher medals, family fun and plenty of fitness by the harbour, all while supporting local not-for-profits and charity partner the Black Dog Institute. 2027 entries open October 2026 here!
Wollongong City Council’s Australia Day Celebrations
Spend Australia Day 2027 at Wollongong City Council’s free, family-friendly celebration at Wollongong Harbour, bringing the community together for an evening of culture, entertainment and fun by the water. Festivities kick off at 5pm with a Welcome to Country, followed by cultural art workshops, street performances, roving entertainment, jumping castles and food trucks, before the night wraps up with a spectacular 9pm fireworks display over the harbour. The event runs until 9:10pm across Wollongong Harbour, Osborne Park and Belmore Basin. Check local road closures before you go and plan your trip. Learn more here.
Get 10% off for Wollongong Locals with Skydive Australia
Ready to take the leap over Wollongong? Experience the ultimate adrenaline rush with Skydive Australia, freefalling from up to 15,000ft right above North Wollongong Beach, soaking up breathtaking views of Wollongong and the Southern Sydney coastline. Based in Stuart Park, just 100 metres from the sand, the Wollongong drop zone is perfectly positioned for unbeatable scenery and easy access.
Locals can now save 10% on 13,000ft and 15,000ft tandem skydives with the LOCALS10 promo code. The offer starts 12 January 2026, is stackable with current specials, and is valid for bookings and jumps completed by 31 December 2026. Book now – an unforgettable Wollongong experience awaits.
Double your Australia Day celebrations with Pro Sound & Lighting – get 3 days hire for the price of 1
Double the Aussie vibes and double the celebrations this Australia Day with Pro Sound & Lighting with their unbeatable offer of 3 days hire for the price of 1!
This 26 January 2026, level up your BBQ, beach day or backyard get-together with a Pro Sound & Lighting package designed to bring the party atmosphere without the stress. From crystal-clear sound to mood-setting lights, they’ve got everything covered so you can focus on good times and great mates.
Get in touch with Claude and make this Australia Day one to remember. Call (02) 4226 1177, the Wollongong team at Pro Sound & Lighting for expert advice, quality gear and reliable service.
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.
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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