Australia Day in Canterbury-Bankstown is set to be bigger, brighter and more exciting than ever in 2026, with a full day of celebrations designed to bring the entire community together. From splashing fun at pool parties to dancing under the stars at a brand-new park celebration, Monday 26 January 2026 promises a memorable day packed with entertainment, culture and family fun.
Responding to strong community demand, the City of Canterbury Bankstown is proudly reviving a much-loved Australia Day tradition – and giving it a fresh new twist.
Aussie Party in the Park: A Brand-New Australia Day Highlight
Making its debut in 2026, the Aussie Party in the Park will take over Playford Park, Padstow, from 4pm to 9pm, transforming the space into a buzzing hub of music, food and family-friendly fun.
Best of all? It’s completely FREE.
This exciting new event brings together live performances, thrilling rides, cultural showcases and a spectacular fireworks finale – the perfect way to celebrate Australia Day with friends, family and neighbours.
Live Entertainment for All Ages
Music lovers are in for a treat, with a diverse line-up that caters to every generation.
Headlining the evening is Live Baby Live, Australia’s premier INXS tribute show, delivering high-energy performances of iconic Aussie rock anthems that will have the crowd singing along.
For younger audiences (and the young at heart), The Wiggles present – Dorothy the Dinosaur and Friends Show, bringing colourful characters, infectious songs and joyful energy to the stage.
Keeping the vibe flowing throughout the evening is DJ Aria, spinning crowd-pleasing tracks, while local talent shines with performances from the Picnic Point High School rock band and the dynamic dancers of Ignite Dance Company.
This mix of professional acts and local performers reflects the heart of Canterbury-Bankstown – a community that celebrates creativity, talent and connection.
Food, Fun and Thrills in the Park
No party is complete without great food, and the Aussie Party in the Park delivers with a delicious selection of food trucks offering something for every taste. Whether you’re craving classic Aussie favourites or international flavours, you’ll find plenty of options to fuel the fun.
For thrill-seekers and kids alike, the event boasts an impressive range of fun rides, including:
- Dodgem cars
- Crazy maze
- Sizzler
- Giant slide
- Swinging chairs
Add to that kids’ face painting, a glamour day spa, and hands-on boomerang paint workshops, and you’ve got an event where children can laugh, create and explore while parents relax and enjoy the atmosphere.
Celebrating Culture and Community
A key highlight of the Aussie Party in the Park is its commitment to cultural inclusion and respect. The evening will feature Aboriginal didgeridoo playing and cultural arts displays, offering an opportunity for the community to engage with and appreciate Australia’s First Nations heritage.
This celebration reflects the rich diversity of Canterbury-Bankstown – a region known for its welcoming, multicultural spirit and strong sense of belonging.
Fireworks Under the Stars
As the sun sets and the night sky lights up, the Aussie Party in the Park will conclude with a spectacular fireworks finale. It’s the perfect ending to a day filled with joy, music and shared celebration – a moment for families and friends to gather, look skyward and reflect on what Australia Day means to them.
Cool Off at the Australia Day Pool Parties
The fun doesn’t stop in the evening. Earlier in the day, residents are invited to cool off at the ever-popular Australia Day Pool Parties, running from 10am to 4pm at:
- Roselands Leisure & Aquatic Centre
- Max Parker Leisure & Aquatic Centre
- Birrong Leisure & Aquatic Centre
For just $2 entry, families can enjoy a relaxed and lively poolside celebration featuring:
- A sausage sizzle from 11am to 2pm
- Live DJ music to keep the energy high
- A refreshing ice block giveaway
These pool parties have become a favourite Australia Day tradition, offering a fun, affordable way for the community to stay cool while celebrating together.
A Message from the Mayor
Mayor Bilal El-Hayek said the Australia Day events are an important opportunity to showcase community pride and celebrate the modern, multicultural Australia that Canterbury-Bankstown represents.
“Our exciting events will bring our community together for a day of fun, music and celebration,” Mayor El-Hayek said.
“From splashing in the pool to dancing under the stars, there’s something for everyone and we can’t wait to celebrate with you.”
His message captures the spirit of the day – one of togetherness, shared joy and appreciation for the diverse contributions that make Australia what it is today.
Mark Your Calendar for Australia Day 2026
Whether you’re looking for:
- A family-friendly day out
- Live music and entertainment
- Cultural experiences
- Affordable fun close to home
- Or simply a great way to celebrate Australia Day with your community
Canterbury-Bankstown’s Australia Day celebrations have it all.
From daytime pool parties to an evening filled with music, rides and fireworks, this is a celebration designed for everyone – young and old, locals and visitors alike.
Find Out More
For full event details, locations and updates, visit:
https://whereinterestinghappens.com.au/event/australiaday2026/
So grab your picnic rug, gather your family and friends, and get ready to celebrate Australia Day 2026 in Canterbury-Bankstown – a day of fun, culture and community pride you won’t want to miss.