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Brisbane is set to shine brighter than ever before this September, as Riverfire – the city's biggest and most beloved fireworks spectacular – announces an expanded inner-city display to kick off Brisbane Festival. Sparks will fly from bridges, barges and rooftops, painting the night sky in a kaleidoscopic display of colour and light.
In a Queensland first, Riverfire 2026 will install a sixth fireworks barge between the Victoria Bridge and Neville Bonner Bridge, bringing the action closer than ever to South Bank and the CBD. Here’s everything you need to know about Riverfire, including the best viewing spots and pre-show entertainment.
What is Riverfire Brisbane?
A highlight of Queensland’s cultural calendar since 1998, Riverfire has grown to become one of Australia’s largest public events, attracting more than 500,000 people each year. Crowds flock to Brisbane’s riverbanks, parks, bridges and rooftops to watch the explosive spectacle, with fireworks shooting from two major bridges, six barges and five city rooftops.
Riverfire 2026 is set to dazzle with hundreds of fireworks and a powerful synchronised soundtrack inspired by this year's theme, 'Switch on. Light up. Come Alive.'
When is Riverfire 2026?
Brisbane Festival will kick off with a bang, with the launch of Riverfire on Saturday, September 5. The festivities will run through to September 26, featuring more than 420 free community events.
What time is Riverfire 2026?
The fireworks display officially starts at 7pm local time, but the fun begins earlier with live entertainment from 4pm. This includes loud and legendary aerial displays from Australian Defence Force aircraft from 4.45pm to 5.30pm. The pre-show entertainment will also feature a powerful dance and song performance by First Nations artists, Tribal Experiences.
Where to watch Riverfire?
If you want to be right in the heart of the action, the Festival Village at South Bank Parklands is the place to be. Other popular free viewing spots include:
- Mt Coot-tha Lookout – for one of Brisbane’s highest vantage points
- Kangaroo Point Cliffs – for a panoramic experience over the Brisbane River
- The Star precinct – for close-up viewing from a multi-level venue
- The Terrace at Emporium Hotel South Bank – for front-row views in the city
- City Botanic Gardens – for a pretty riverside setting
- Victoria Park/Barrambin – a family-friendly spot for a picnic
- Howard Smith Wharves – for a range of ticketed drinking and dining experiences (see more below), complete with roving entertainment and DJs, including Fiume Rooftop Bar, Felons Barrel Hall and Babylon Rooftop
- W Brisbane – unrivalled riverside views with live jazz and a four-course meal at The Lex, plus an after-party at the Living Room Bar
Is Riverfire on TV?
Prefer to watch from the comfort of your couch? You can watch the fireworks display live on Channel Nine. If you’re enjoying the show from a distant lookout, tune in to Triple M to enjoy the synchronised soundtrack.
How much does Riverfire cost?
Riverfire is a free event, but many of Brisbane’s top hotels, bars and restaurants will offer ticketed experiences. You can find out more about Riverfire 2026 here.