Brisbane’s most spectacular night of the year is back – and Riverfire 2025 is set to be bigger, brighter, and bolder than ever.
On Saturday, 6 September 2025, the Brisbane Festival will launch with Riverfire by Australian Retirement Trust, an explosive celebration of creativity, community and colour that transforms the city skyline with one of Australia’s most dazzling fireworks displays.
What’s new at Riverfire 2025?
In a first for Queensland, Riverfire 2025 will introduce heavy-payload pyrotechnic drones into the show. These three specially-designed drones will launch nearly 600 individual effects, creating thrilling formations in the sky and adding a whole new dimension to the fireworks experience.
This innovative addition makes Riverfire 2025 one of the most advanced pyrotechnic displays in the world, marking a defining moment in Australian fireworks history.
“Riverfire by Australian Retirement Trust is more than a fireworks show – it’s a celebration of our city, our creativity, and the power of shared experience,” said Brisbane Festival Artistic Director Louise Bezzina.
Crowds on the Brisbane River at Riverfire. Credit: mellumae
Fireworks, aerial displays and a vibrant soundtrack
The fun starts well before the fireworks, with aerial displays from the Australian Defence Force (ADF), featuring C-17 Globemasters, F/A-18 jets, helicopters, and more. There will also be a moving cultural performance by First Nations group Tribal Experiences, incorporating traditional dance and song.
The main event – the fireworks display – will be choreographed to a dynamic soundtrack curated by acclaimed sound designer Guy Webster. This year’s soundtrack, inspired by ANZ’s Walk This Way by Craig & Karl, promises to be as bold and joyful as Brisbane itself. Tune into Triple M for the full audio experience, or catch the live TV coverage on Channel Nine.
Riverfire 2025 is a great opportunity to come together and enjoy our vibrant city. Credit: mellumae
Where to watch Riverfire 2025
Looking for the best spots to catch the show? Riverfire’s official mascot, Artie, has shared a guide to the top viewing locations across Brisbane. See the map below.
Riverfire 2025 map
One premium option is The Landing at Queen’s Wharf, offering reserved seating, riverside views and access to a licensed bar. Tickets are limited and available through the Brisbane Festival website.
Other top vantage points include:
- South Bank Parklands
- Kangaroo Point Cliffs
- Wilson’s Lookout
- City rooftops and bridges
- Riverwalk areas
Be sure to plan ahead, arrive early, and consider public transport options.
Why Riverfire 2025 matters
Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said Riverfire is one of the biggest nights on Brisbane’s calendar:
“From packed riverfront venues to buzzing restaurants, Riverfire delivers a welcome surge in visitation and supports thousands of local jobs. We’re proud to support a showstopping event that puts Brisbane on the national stage.”
Queensland Minister for the Arts John-Paul Langbroek echoed the significance of the event:
“Undoubtedly Brisbane’s most spectacular night of the year, Riverfire signals the start of the Brisbane Festival’s vibrant program of more than 100 events, many of them free.”
Fast Facts: Riverfire 2025 by Australian Retirement Trust
Date: Saturday 6 September 2025
Time: 4pm–8pm
Fireworks Start: After sunset
ADF Aerial Displays: Pre-fireworks, during daylight
Soundtrack: Live on Triple M
TV Broadcast: Channel Nine
Tip: Use public transport, arrive early
Fireworks Locations:
• 5 barges on the river
• 7 city rooftops
• 2 major bridges
• 3 pyrotechnic drones
• 17 firing points total
• Over 1,500 hours of prep go into the show!
More Than Just Fireworks
Riverfire 2025 marks the beginning of Brisbane Festival, which runs from 5–27 September. Over three weeks, the festival will feature world premieres, unforgettable performances, free public events, and immersive experiences across the city.
With more than 100 events and 450 free performances, it’s a chance to dive into the creativity, culture and community that make Brisbane shine.
Brought to You By
Australian Retirement Trust, one of Australia’s largest super funds, is proud to have supported Riverfire for over 15 years.
“Riverfire is the perfect opportunity to come together and celebrate everything great about our state and city,” said Simonne Burnett, Chief Member Experience Officer.
⸻
🎇 Don’t Miss Riverfire 2025
Mark your calendar for Saturday 6 September – and be part of one of the biggest, brightest, and most beloved nights of the year.
Visit brisbanefestival.com.au/events/riverfire for updates, vantage point maps, accessibility info, transport tips and more.
