As the year winds down, the Capricorn Coast and Rockhampton are gearing up for a vibrant New Year’s Eve — with beachside parties, live music, comedy, fireworks and stylish hotel celebrations. Whether you want a laid-back family evening on the sand or a lively night out, there’s something for everyone.
NYE at the Beach – Yeppoon
This much-loved coastal tradition runs each New Year’s Eve along the Yeppoon Foreshore / Main Beach front. It kicks off in the early evening and offers a relaxed, community-oriented vibe. Expect live music, community atmosphere, and entertainment suitable for all ages — ideal for families or groups of friends. The night usually wraps up with a dazzling laser-light show over the foreshore — a colourful, memorable way to welcome the new year under the stars. Read more – https://www.livingstone.qld.gov.au/Living-Here/My-Community/Events/Upcoming-Events/NYE-at-the-Beach
Great Keppel Island Hideaway
If you are ready to see in the new year with your feet in the sand, Great Keppel Island Hideaway has you covered with live music on NYE and New Year’s Day from 12pm – 5pm. The perfect family-friendly way to roll into 2026 barefoot, relaxed and surrounded by great island vibes. Come for the day, or stay longer – https://greatkeppelislandhideaway.com.au/
Keppel Bay Sailing Club – Yeppoon
The celebrations don’t stop there. Keppel Bay Sailing Club turns into a multi-stage party on New Year’s Eve, with live music running from 8:30pm to 12:30am across four venues: Club Emu Park with Jonny & The Chill, Krackers featuring Strings, Spinnaker hosting the Celeste Caught Duo, and the Clubhouse rocking with the Aaron Hamilton Band. It’s a fantastic option for groups wanting great music, waterfront vibes and the freedom to move between spaces. Discover more here – https://kbsc.com.au/
Frenchville Sports Club – Rockhampton
Frenchville Sports Club invites party-goers to walk like an Egyptian at its themed Nile Year’s Eve Party. Dress as a Pharaoh, Cleopatra or dancing mummy and enjoy live music from Johnny Boroevich (from 6pm) and Jay Jackson (9pm–1am), alongside drink specials, best-dressed prizes and the chance to win a share of $10,000 in Pharaoh’s Fortune member draws. It’s a high-energy, themed celebration to count down to midnight in style. Book your table now – https://frenchvillesportsclub.com.au/events/nile-years-eve-party
Footlights Theatre Restaurant — Yeppoon
For a different kind of NYE vibe, Footlights offers a cosy and hilarious dinner-and-show option. Their New Year’s Eve package includes a three-course meal and a lively two-hour variety show — complete with complimentary champagne at midnight. It’s a great fit for folks wanting good food, laughs and a stress-free, indoor setting while still feeling part of the festivities. Book now – https://footlights.com.au/product/new-years-eve-show/
The Strand Hotel Yeppoon — Yeppoon
The Strand Hotel’s NYE celebration is ideal if you’re after a beach-town party feel. The festivities begin early — around midday — with outdoor games and relaxed vibes, then shift into live music from around 12:30 pm. From 8:00 pm, their “No Scrubs” 90s/00s themed party takes over — dancing, nostalgia, drinks, and a chance to ring in 2026 with music and energy. If you want to combine coastal breezes with vibrant night-time fun, Strand offers a perfect blend. Read more – https://thestrandyeppoon.com.au/events/nye/
New Year’s Eve Fireworks — Rockhampton
Rockhampton’s riverside precinct transforms into a buzzing celebration area with food vendors, markets and live entertainment from the evening onwards. Two fireworks displays light up the sky: an early one around 7:30 pm (great for families and those wanting an early night) — followed by a grand midnight show to ring in the New Year with a bang. The atmosphere along the riverside is festive and communal, with locals and visitors gathering to watch the Fitzroy River shimmer under fireworks — a classic way to welcome 2026. Read more – https://www.facebook.com/events/riverside-rockhampton/rockhampton-new-years-eve-fireworks/671158469117224/
Time Safaris Walking Tours – Rockhampton
Add a little mystery and adventure to your festive break with Time Safaris’ end-of-year walking tours. Across the week, guests can dive into Rockhampton’s darker history with special themed walks, including the returning Nightmare Before Christmas tour featuring new tales like the dramatic duel between the Baron and the Marquis. Explore the city’s eerie past on the Dark Rocky Night Walk, uncover true crimes and ghostly legends on the popular Ghost & Murder Walk, or enjoy a family-friendly morning on the Dinosaurs @ the Zoo tour, where kids can hold real fossils and learn about Ice Age animals. It’s a fun, immersive way to experience Rockhampton’s stories before ringing in the New Year. Book now – https://www.timesafaris.com.au/
