Brisbane Riverfire 2025: Everything You Need to Know About the City’s Most Spectacular Night

A Grand Opening to Brisbane Festival

The most spectacular night of the year returns in 2025 to light up Brisbane Festival’s opening weekend on Saturday, 6 September 2025.

A highlight on Queensland’s cultural calendar since 1998, Riverfire has evolved into one of Australia’s largest public events, drawing more than 500,000 people annually.

What’s New in 2025

In a groundbreaking Queensland first, Riverfire 2025 will showcase pyrotechnic drones illuminating the sky in 600 thrilling formations. The event will feature more fireworks than ever before, accompanied by a powerful synchronised soundtrack curated by acclaimed composer and sound designer Guy Webster, broadcast live on Triple M.

Event Schedule and Entertainment

While the main fireworks display officially begins at 7:00 PM, the entertainment kicks off at 4:00 PM with live performances, including spectacular aerial displays from Australian Defence Force aircraft.

The spectacle will feature Foti Fireworks lighting up the sky from bridges, barges, and rooftops in a dazzling celebration of sound and light.

Viewing and Access Information

Prime viewing locations include:
– Mt Coot-tha Lookout for one of Brisbane’s highest vantage points
– Kangaroo Point Cliffs for panoramic river views
– City Botanic Gardens for a riverside setting
– Victoria Park/Barrambin for family-friendly picnic spots
– Howard Smith Wharves for ticketed dining experiences

For those preferring to watch from home, the fireworks display will be broadcast live on Channel Nine, while those at distant lookouts can tune into Triple M for the synchronised soundtrack.

Important Planning Information

The Queensland Police Service is finalizing preparations to ensure safety and security for everyone, with expectations of up to 400,000 people in the city throughout Saturday’s celebrations, including 300,000 at viewing venues.

Visitors should note that major road, bridge, and cycleway closures will be in effect on Saturday, along with parking restrictions. Affected bridges include Victoria Bridge, Goodwill Bridge, Neville Bonner Bridge, Story Bridge, and Captain Cook Bridge.