Australia's Major National Celebrations

Australia Day — January 26

Commemorates the 1788 First Fleet landing at Sydney Cove. National public holiday. Celebrations: citizenship ceremonies, community festivals, fireworks, barbecues, Triple J Hottest 100. Note: Many Indigenous Australians observe it as Invasion Day / Survival Day.

Anzac Day — April 25

Solemn remembrance of all Australians and New Zealanders who served/died in wars. Dawn services, veterans' marches, two-up games, rosemary sprigs. Marks 1915 Gallipoli landing.

Christmas — December 25

Summer Christmas. Family gatherings, seafood feasts, prawns, pavlova, "Carols by Candlelight" outdoors. Public holiday.

Boxing Day — December 26

Public holiday. Cricket (Boxing Day Test at MCG), Sydney–Hobart Yacht Race start, shopping sales, beach time, leftovers.

New Year's Day — January 1

Fireworks over Sydney Harbour (iconic global broadcast), parties, resolutions. Public holiday.

Other Notable Days

• Labour Day (dates vary by state)
• King's Birthday (June/Sept/Oct by state)
• NAIDOC Week (July: Indigenous culture)
• Harmony Day (Mar 21: multiculturalism)