A Guide To The Best Events In The City Of Perth This Summer

From New Year’s Eve parties to Australia Day celebrations, we’ve rounded up the best ways to make the most of Perth’s sizzling season.

By: Alexandra Casey

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Perthites, it’s time to rediscover the magic of Perth’s vibrant summer scene. From November to February, the City of Perth comes alive with an endless array of events and festivities that will have you eagerly stepping out to soak up the season. Whether you’re ringing in the New Year or celebrating Australia Day in style, we’ve done the hard work for you — curating a guide to the very best events happening in the heart of Perth.

Roy Hill New Year’s Eve Celebrations

Ring in the new year with a dazzling evening of fun, festivities, and fireworks at Elizabeth Quay and Barrack Square.

Kick things off at the Elizabeth Quay Fun Fair from 5:00 pm, where carnival rides and games promise thrills for all ages. From the exhilarating Dream Swinger to the nostalgic Dodgem Cars, there’s something for everyone. Test your luck at Sideshow Alley or let the little ones explore hands-on fun with circus workshops and a Giant Bubble Zone. As night falls, the atmosphere sparkles with roaming entertainers — think aerial acrobatics, stilt walkers, hula-hoop pros, and even a DJ spinning tunes alongside glittering light-up characters. Don’t miss the Roaming Glitter Bar for a touch of sparkle to match the night.

Feeling peckish? Head to Barrack Square, where food vendors will be serving up tasty bites.

The night’s grand highlights are two spectacular fireworks displays over the Swan River. Families can enjoy an 8:30 pm show, while the midnight finale lights up the city to welcome 2025. Plus, if you’re celebrating in Northbridge, catch an additional rooftop fireworks show at midnight. For more details, head to the Visit Perth website.

Where: Elizabeth Quay and Barrack Square
When: December 31st, 2024
Time: 5:00pm to 1:00am

Lotterywest Summer Nights

This January, Elizabeth Quay becomes the ultimate summer destination for eight spectacular nights of entertainment.

Building on the success of Perth’s first-ever floating stage in 2023, Lotterywest Summer Nights returns with a program of immersive live performances, roving entertainers, and family-friendly fun. You can expect a show-stopping mix of music, drama, and magic set against Perth’s stunning skyline.

At the heart of the action is the dazzling floating stage, a state-of-the-art marvel wrapped in LED screens that transform every performance into a visual feast. Whether you’re up close or soaking it all in from around the Quay, it’s an experience you won’t forget.

Add to the excitement with delicious food options and nightly fireworks launched from the Elizabeth Quay footbridge, lighting up the summer sky in spectacular fashion.

Head to Visit Perth to view the full program and get ready to make your summer nights unforgettable.

Where: Elizabeth Quay
When: January 11th to 18th, 2025
Time: 5:00pm – 9:00pm

Hancock Prospecting Australia Day Celebrations

Celebrate Australia Day in style at Perth’s iconic Langley Park and Riverside Drive foreshore, where nearly 40 years of tradition come alive with vibrant entertainment for all ages. From high-energy performances to laid-back activities, there’s something for every adrenaline level.

As the city’s largest single-day event, this celebration promises an unforgettable experience, complete with a spectacular fireworks and drone show lighting up the Swan River. Whether you’re joining with family or friends, this day will be filled with fun, community spirit, and entertainment.

Find out more at Visit Perth.

Where: Langley Park
When: January 26th, 2025
Time: 3:00 pm to 10:00 pm

Birak Concert

Join the celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture at the Birak Concert in the stunning Supreme Court Gardens. This cultural extravaganza showcases the rich traditions of our First Nations peoples through live music, dance, and a stellar line-up of WA talent.

Explore the market stalls offering unique local goods, and enjoy a range of family-friendly activities that make this event perfect for all ages.

Where: Supreme Court Gardens
When: January 26th, 2025
Time: 3:00 pm to 7:30 pm

Perth Chinese New Year Fair

Revel in the colour, culture, and elation of the Perth Chinese New Year Fair, a street carnival in the heart of Northbridge. Celebrate the Year of the Snake with captivating cultural activities, wow-worthy performances, and a bustling array of market stalls offering flavours, crafts, and treasures from across Asia. It’s a joyful celebration that brings the community together in festive harmony.

Where: James Street and Yagan Square
When: February 1st and 2nd, 2025
Time: 12:00pm to 9:00pm

Twilight Food Market

The city’s biggest street food market — Twilight Food Market — has returned for another season. Showcasing Perth’s diverse food culture, every Friday after work you can tickle your taste buds with a variety of affordable cuisines from around the globe. Good food, festive entertainment, and a balmy summer atmosphere, what more could you ask for?

Where: Forrest Place
When: Every Friday until March 28th, 2025
Time: 4:30 pm to 9:30 pm