Australia Day celebrations along the Hawkesbury River drew a crowd of more than 10,000 people in 2026, transforming the riverbank into a laid-back summer gathering marked by colour, community and reflection.
From early evening, families and groups of friends streamed in from across the Hawkesbury and beyond, spreading picnic rugs and folding chairs along the foreshore. Many arrived dressed in shades of green and gold, alongside flashes of red and blue, settling in to enjoy a program that blended entertainment, culture and classic backyard fun.
Proceedings opened with a Welcome to Country delivered by a local Dharug and Darkinjung woman, followed by a traditional dance performance that anchored the evening in the area’s deep Aboriginal heritage. The ceremony set a thoughtful tone before the celebration shifted into a more playful gear.
Competitive spirits surfaced during crowd-favourite activities, including an oversized cricket challenge and a thong-throwing contest, both drawing cheers and good-natured rivalry. On the main stage, live music kept the atmosphere buoyant, while a charismatic master of ceremonies encouraged audience participation and kept the evening moving at a lively pace.
Away from the stage, the riverbank buzzed with activity. A global food court offered a wide range of flavours, carnival rides lit up the night, and children lined up for free face painting. Emergency services displays added another point of interest for curious families.
This year’s event also placed a strong emphasis on accessibility and inclusion. A dedicated quiet space was available for attendees seeking a sensory break, supported by clear communication tools designed for people with neurodivergence or language barriers. Large-print maps, accessible amenities, change rooms and dedicated parking close to the entry helped ensure the celebration could be enjoyed by as many people as possible.
As night fell, the crowd gathered along the river’s edge. At precisely 9 pm, fireworks burst above the Hawkesbury, their reflections rippling across the water and drawing the day’s festivities to a colourful close.
Supported through national Australia Day funding, the Hawkesbury celebration once again proved that the occasion can be both festive and inclusive, offering a shared space for people to come together, acknowledge the past and enjoy a summer evening by the river.
