Queensland knows how to close out a year — from riverside cocktail parties to neon-soaked dance floors and rooftop fiestas. Whether you want midnight glamour, live music, or an all-out Valley blowout, here’s your ultimate guide to ringing in 2026 across Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
High above the city with DJs from sunset to late, Lulu’s Sonda NYE – The Last Dance is a sparkling rooftop takeover with a killer lineup and Balearic-club-meets-Gold-Coast energy. Expect dancing, drinks and skyline views for days.
They have a carefully curated selection of sound ready for you to dance the night away:
💿 HAIVAI B (DE)
💿 Saie
💿 Cheq
💿 Shyne
💿 Cortezzr
A classic Vegas countdown with retro beats, neon glamour and a dance floor that’s full until 5am. If you want something bright, nostalgic and high-energy — you’re in the right place at Retro’s.
Irish charm meets NYE sparkle with a Shamrock Champagne celebration featuring themed entertainment, live music, signature cocktails and prizes for the best dressed. At Finn McCool’s, it’s festive, fun and full of personality.
Choose from a selection of packages — Standard, Standard + Sprits, or Premium Package — and don’t forget to capture your memories in the 360-degree photo booth.
If your ideal New Year’s Eve is beachy, breezy and beautifully uncomplicated, Sandbar is your go-to. Just steps from the sand, this Surfers Paradise favourite offers coastal cocktails, fresh summer dishes and a relaxed beachfront atmosphere that feels like the Gold Coast at its best.
There’s no set event — simply book a table, settle in with friends and soak up those ocean views as the countdown rolls in.
If your ideal NYE is cold drinks, good tunes and that distinctly West End “everyone’s invited” energy, The Boundary has you covered. The whole venue comes alive with DJs in the beer garden, live music rolling through the main bar and the kind of effortless neighbourhood atmosphere that keeps the party going until 2am.
Free entry all night means you can wander in, claim your spot and settle into a cruisy, music-filled finale to 2025.
Babylon Brisbane is one of the city’s most iconic NYE destinations. With riverside views, Levantine-inspired food, and premium drinks, it’s easy to see why this event sells out every year.
Choose your vibe: Babylon Restaurant offers a relaxed sit-down dinner with three Taste Menus — Taste, Premium or Deluxe — and premium window or balcony table upgrades for groups of 2–4, giving you the perfect view of the fireworks.
Or head to Babylon Gardens for a riverside party featuring canapés, food stations, DJs, live saxophone, fire twirlers and a premium beverage package. Count down to midnight with spectacular Brisbane River fireworks, including unobstructed views of the Story Bridge.
For those who prefer their countdown with white tablecloths, fine wine and a little exclusivity, Boatshed After Dark is the most elegant way to welcome 2026.
Think: a five-course menu, premium beverages, intimate late-night dining and the timeless charm of The Regatta at night. It’s indulgent, elevated and designed for diners who want to savour the evening rather than ‘send it’.
If you want to dance your way into 2026 with a tropical twist, Hey Chica’s Jungle Fever is your all-night fiesta. Think high-energy beats, live instrumentalists, neon-lit party moments and a crowd that doesn’t slow down until sunrise.
There’s general entry into Hey Chica’s or go wild for the All-Inclusive Roaming Canapes & Drinks Package from 8pm–12am.
Countdown to midnight Vegas-style — bright lights, glitter, retro anthems and a dance floor that doesn’t quit until 5am. If you love a throwback soundtrack and a big, bold, colourful party vibe, Retro’s is your NYE home base.
Boots on, bourbon at the bar, live music on stage — Lefty’s is bringing a Texan-style, country-fuelled New Year’s Eve that’s rowdy, warm and absolutely unforgettable.
Get ready for boot-scootin’ tunes, ice-cold drinks, and a midnight countdown that’ll light up the night. Whether you’re two-steppin’, singin’ along, or raising a glass to the year ahead, this party is where memories are made.
A premium cocktail party overlooking the river and Story Bridge, with live music, DJs, roaming entertainment and a four-hour drinks package. Chic, social and guaranteed to sell out — Friday’s is one of Brisbane’s signature NYE experiences.
Waterfront. Fireworks. Premium food. DJs. Live cooking stations. Riverland’s NYE party is big, bold and right on the Brisbane River — ideal for anyone who wants a high-energy celebration with unbeatable views.
