Australia Day spectacular as hot air balloons soar over Parramatta

Hot air balloon rides, live music, science workshops, laser tag, a dedicated sports zone and many more family-friendly activities are set to take over Parramatta Park to celebrate Australia Day.

Festivities will take place on the evening of Thursday 25 January as well as on Australia Day itself, with something for the entire community to enjoy.

City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Pierre Esber said the events are a chance for everyone in our community to reflect and celebrate what unites us, whilst honouring the heritage of our Dharug and First Nations people.

“The First Nations dance, ochre face painting workshops and cultural talks are a few of the traditional activities in the morning where families can connect with culture and discover our rich history,” Cr Esber said.

“This is a chance for everyone to come together and experience delicious food, live music and heaps of fun activities in a relaxed environment.”

These events are held alongside City of Parramatta’s 2024 Citizen of the Year Awards and annual Citizenship Ceremony, recognising extraordinary individuals and welcoming 120 new members to our community.

This year, families can enjoy the fun and entertainment earlier with an inaugural Balloon Glow kicking off the activities on Thursday 25 January from 5-10pm. Live performances by a mix of soul and blues musicians as well as children’s activities, amusement rides and workshops will be available before an illuminated hot air balloon show lights up the sky at 9pm.

On Australia Day morning, our much-loved Balloons and Breakfast is back, offering tethered hot air balloon rides, coffee and BBQ breakfast, more live music, plenty of cultural activities to explore and outdoor fun and games from 6-11am.

For family-friendly entertainment across both events, Junkyard Beats will be roving around with drummers, breakdancers and performances.

Those looking for more action can take part in one-on-one football shoot outs or activities and games with Active Parramatta. Amusement rides will also run on both days, tickets can be purchased at the event.

Internationally recognised inventor, Professor Veena Sahajwalla is Parramatta's 2024 Australia Day Ambassador and will be attending the Citizen of the Year Awards.

Entry is free, for the full program and more information visit atparramatta.com/australia-day