Your guide to a night at Riverfire, Brisbane’s most spectacular evening

When: 31 August 2024

• Best locations
• How to get there

Brisbane’s vibrant cultural scene is illuminated throughout the three weeks of creativity during Brisbane Festival, but no night shines brighter than Riverfire – the festival’s exciting fireworks-fuelled launch event.

The most colourful celebration on Brisbane’s calendar, Riverfire by Australian Retirement Trust promises to thrill crowds again this year. Here’s how to make the most of your experience.

Riverfire is Brisbane’s night of nights – and it has long been a favourite annual event for locals and visitors. Our winding river sets the stage, and the city skyline the backdrop, for one of the most spectacular fireworks displays in Australia. And around half a million spectators turn out to line the shores for a front row view.

But Riverfire is more than just fireworks: it’s a huge community event. And this year, it marks the opening of Brisbane Festival – a vibrant program of arts and culture events across the city, running 30 August – 21 September 2024.

What not to miss at Riverfire this year

While the official Riverfire 2024 schedule will be released closer to the day, here’s what we know so far.

Entertainment will begin from 4pm, so come early to the riverfront and start celebrating.

There’ll be a RAAF aerial display before the fireworks – a highlight of every Riverfire event – where aircraft fly at low level along Brisbane River, including an electrifying fly past from an F/A-18 Super Hornet.

The main event kicks off at 7pm, when dazzling fireworks and music light up Brisbane’s iconic skyline, launching sparkle and colour from bridges, high-rise rooftops, and multiple barges along the river.

Note: event times are subject to change.

Best locations to celebrate at Riverfire

The key to a great night at Riverfire is to find yourself the ultimate vantage point.

It’s a free, non-ticketed event – but with spectators turning out in their thousands, you’ll need to arrive early to grab the best spots along the waterfront.

The best public spots for Riverfire views include:

• South Bank Parklands
• Victoria Bridge
• Dock Street
• Kangaroo Point Cliffs
• River Terrace, Kangaroo Point
• Captain Burke Park
• Howard Smith Wharves
• Wilson’s Lookout
• City Riverwalk (including Riverside Centre and Eagle Street Pier)

South Bank is one of the most popular places for families to watch Riverfire: the fenced area opens at 9am and will be closed if capacity is reached, in order to maintain safety.  

Want to experience the fireworks with the official soundtrack? Triple M will broadcast the playlist live, and South Bank, River Terrace, Captain Burke Park, Kangaroo Point Cliffs and Wilson Outlook will have audio systems blasting the tunes so you can have the full experience.   

Unique ways to experience Riverfire Brisbane

Celebrating shoulder-to-shoulder not your style?

Catch the action of Riverfire with uninterrupted views of Story Bridge and the city skyline on board The Art Boat, Brisbane Festival’s fabulous floating extravaganza. The Art Boat offers cruises throughout Brisbane Festival, but being in the centre of Riverfire might just be the best night to jump on board –with a full bar and snacks to purchase, live performers and a DJ to keep the energy high. Tickets here.

Many Brisbane rooftop bars, waterfront restaurants and hotels offer special Riverfire packages or host ticketed Riverfire events – perfect to dine, drink and dance the night away with a front row seat to the sparkle.  

Can’t make it into the city this year? Tune in from home via Triple M’s live broadcast or Channel 9’s exclusive television coverage.  

Accessibility at Riverfire

Riverfire is an event for everyone. This year, an accessible viewing platform is available at Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park (River Terrace Park) for people with access requirements and their companions. The platform offers space for up to 300 patrons and is available on a first come, first served basis via the online booking form at Brisbane Festival’s website.

How to get to Riverfire

Take advantage of public transport to get to and from Riverfire this year. It’s quick, efficient and affordable – especially with the new 50-cent Translink fares – with extra services scheduled for event day to manage the crowds that venture into the city.

Road, bridge and river closures are put in place during the event, so be sure to arrive well ahead of the aerial display and firework. CityCat services also experience disruption at times during Riverfire, so check ferry times before you travel.

Plan your journey here.

Want to fill your calendar with Brisbane Festival events? Check out our guide here.