Sydney's iconic New Year's Eve events are expected to raise $151 million, the biggest celebration since the start of the Covid pandemic.
The famous highlight of Sydney's New Year's Eve celebrations is the annual fireworks display on the Harbor Bridge.
On December 31, two shows will light up the sky, one at 9 p.m. and one at the stroke of midnight to welcome 2024.
With just five days to go until the big event, Sydneysiders and visitors are planning the best viewing points for the fireworks.
This year, almost all 49 viewing spots are free, unlike last year, where spectators paid between $12.50 and $520.
Sydney's New Year's Eve fireworks displays at the Harbor Bridge will deliver a $151 million boost to the city's economy (Photo: New Year's revelers in 2022)
Nearly all 49 viewing areas will be free, unlike last year where spectators paid between $12.50 and $520 (pictured, 2022's New Year's Eve fireworks)
Free spots are some of the best places to view the Harbor Bridge, including Barangaroo Reserve, Bradfield Park and Mary Booth Reserve.
Some of the city's coveted spots remain ticketed to manage crowds, including the Cahill Expressway, Clark, Goat and Shark Islands, Strickland Estate and Bradley's Head – Mast Precinct, Athol Lawn, Amphitheatre.
Live information on venue capacity limits is available at www.sydneynewyearseve.com.
Separate paid New Year's Eve events are held at Taronga Zoo and the Royal Botanic Garden's Foundation and Friends NYE Picnic.
The Covid restrictions that have plagued New Year's Eve celebrations for the past three years will be completely scrapped from this year's festivities.
Paul Nicolaou, executive director of Business Sydney, predicts the end-of-year celebrations will generate $151 million from the 60,000 visitors to Sydney.
“While hospitality businesses will be operating at full capacity, other sectors such as retail and personal services (hair, nails, etc.) will also benefit from New Year's Eve celebrations,” he told the paper. Daily telegram.
“After a difficult year amid a cost of living crisis, this is exactly the tonic retailers needed as a springboard for better economic times in 2024.”
For the first time, the fireworks will feature an AI-generated animation projected onto the Harbor Bridge pylons.
Free spots are some of the best places to view the Harbor Bridge, including Barangaroo Reserve, Bradfield Park and Mary Booth Reserve (pictured, revelers at Circular Quay ahead of the 2022 fireworks)
Sydney Mayor Clover Moore said 'we expect a return to the public at levels similar to before the pandemic restrictions'.
“I encourage people to arrive early so they can find the best spot to view the evening's festivities,” she said.
“Pack water, food, sun protection and wear good walking shoes.”