Brisbane’s biggest night of the year is almost here.
Tomorrow — Saturday 5 September — Riverfire by Australian Retirement Trust lights up the Brisbane River to kick off the 2026 Brisbane Festival, and if you haven’t locked in your spot yet, now is the time.
Up to half a million people are expected to descend on the riverfront. Fireworks launch at 7pm from six barges, five rooftops and two bridges — with an extra barge added this year between Victoria Bridge and Neville Bonner Bridge for even more coverage. It’s going to be a big one.
The Flyovers (Don’t Miss These)
Before the fireworks, there’s the military aerial display — always one of the most impressive parts of the night and something that never really gets old.
A C-17A Globemaster III flies over at approximately 4:52pm, followed by F/A-18F Super Hornets at 5:20pm. Australian Army ground displays and the Royal Australian Navy Band fill out the afternoon. Get to your spot early.
Where to Watch (For Newstead and Teneriffe Locals)
Living in the precinct gives you options that most of Brisbane doesn’t have. Here’s how we’d play it:
From your rooftop — for Cavalé residents — Don’t underestimate what you’ve got at home. The Newstead-Teneriffe precinct sits right on the river corridor — head to your rooftop amenity level and you’ll have one of the most exclusive (and crowd-free) views in the city. No queues. No transport headaches. Just bring a drink and enjoy.
Howard Smith Wharves — arguably the best vibe in the city on a night like this. Great elevated aspect over the river, plenty of bars to grab a drink while you wait, and genuinely walkable from Newstead and Teneriffe. Go early.
Kangaroo Point Cliffs — spectacular views, slightly less hectic than South Bank, and the accessible viewing area is located here too.
Captain Burke Park — a local favourite that gives you a clean sightline without the South Bank crowds.
City Botanic Gardens — a nice open alternative if you want a more relaxed setup.
South Bank is the classic option but it fills up fast — the perimeter is gated with 11 entry points, so if that’s your pick, arrive well before 6pm.
Getting There — Read This First
Ferries and CityCats are not running tomorrow night due to industrial action — which means the usual 27,000 people who take the river home will need another plan. Trains are the go, with extra services on most lines. Roads into South Bank and along the river will be closed from the afternoon, and Clem7 toll travel is free between 6:30pm and 8pm.
Leave the car at home. Seriously.
And Then There’s the Rest of the Festival
Riverfire is just the opening act. The 2026 Brisbane Festival runs through September and into October under the theme “Switch On, Light Up” — a program spanning theatre, music, circus, visual art and film.
Look out for the world premiere of Strong is the New Pretty at QPAC and the Night at the Parkland concert series at Roma Street Parkland. Full program at brisbanefestival.com.au.
It’s one of those weekends that reminds you why you live here. Make the most of it.
