If you’re looking for fun, family-friendly ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve with kids, the Sunshine Coast has you sorted. This year, locals and holidaymakers can enjoy fireworks, entertainment, food trucks and early-evening events across three major locations — Coolum, Caloundra and Mooloolaba — with kid-friendly timings and the long-awaited return of the midnight fireworks display.
Sunshine Coast Council has confirmed it will support four fireworks displays across the region:
- Coolum – 8.30 pm
- Caloundra – 9.30 pm
- Mooloolaba – 8.30 pm & Midnight
These earlier displays in Coolum and Caloundra make it easy for families to join the celebrations without pushing bedtime too far – perfect for a relaxed NYE Sunshine Coast experience.
Mooloolaba: Fireworks, Entertainment & the Return of Midnight Magic
Mooloolaba will bring the big coastal countdown vibes with two fireworks displays launched from an offshore barge, visible from multiple vantage points—from Maroochydore Beach and Alexandra Headland through to Point Cartwright.
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said she was thrilled to see the midnight display return.
“Last year our community told us they wanted to see midnight fireworks return and we listened,” Mayor Natoli said.
“We’re encouraging people to think about the kind of experience they’d like to have, then plan ahead and perhaps watch the action from a new viewpoint.”
Families can enjoy roving performers, live music and buskers from 5pm to midnight, stretching from the HMAS Lookout to the Northern Parklands. Whether you book a family dinner at a local restaurant or pack a picnic and settle into a favourite spot, it’s set to be a spectacular NYE by the sea.
Getting to Mooloolaba
Skip the traffic and take advantage of extra public transport services and affordable fares.
BikePark will operate on the Mooloolaba Esplanade—simply ride, check in your bike or scooter, and collect it later.
Translink 600 & 620 services will run every 15 minutes from 6 pm–1.30 am, with 50c fares across the network.
Coolum New Year’s Eve: Fun from 5 pm with Early Fireworks
Coolum Lions will host a lively family event from 5–9pm, complete with roving performers, food trucks and light entertainment. The early 8.30 pm fireworks are ideal for younger children who won’t make it to midnight.
Caloundra: Food Trucks, Fun & 9.30 pm Fireworks
At Kings Beach Amphitheatre, the Food Truck Association is bringing the festival vibes with rides, face painting, roving entertainment and delicious food trucks from 4–10pm. The 9.30pm fireworks wrap up the night with a colourful bang.
Safety & Essentials
All Sunshine Coast NYE events are glass and alcohol free, making them a safe and welcoming option for families. If you have pets, check the RSPCA’s tips for keeping animals calm during fireworks.
Quick Guide to Sunshine Coast NYE Fireworks
Mooloolaba
5 pm – midnight: Buskers, performers, food trucks
8.30 pm fireworks
Midnight fireworks
Coolum
5–9 pm: Roving performers, food trucks
8.30 pm fireworks
Caloundra (Kings Beach)
4 – 10 pm: Rides, entertainment, food trucks
9.30 pm fireworks
Whether you’re planning an early night with little ones or staying up for the big countdown, the Sunshine Coast is packed with family-friendly ways to celebrate. It’s the perfect place to enjoy New Year’s Eve with kids and make the most of NYE Sunshine Coast by the beach.
Full information at events.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au
Stuck for ideas of what to do over the summer break? Make sure you check out our SCHOOL HOLIDAY GUIDE
