Every year, Australians celebrate January 26 with national pride by flying the Australian flag from businesses, homes and cars. They also attend festivals, community and sporting events or gather for family barbeques at homes, parks or the beach. Well, it is ‘Australia Day’, a public holiday for all Australians.

On this day, the Australian government awards the Order of Australia to selected Australians for according recognition to Australian citizens and other persons for achievement or meritorious service. The Prime Minister announces the winner of the ‘Australian of the Year’ Award for significant contribution to the Australian community and nation. It is an inspirational role model for the Australian community. Other awards include Young Australian of the Year, Senior Australian of the Year, and an award for Australia’s Local Hero.

Festivities across the Nation

Sydney– The day begins with Aboriginal and Australian flags being raised on Sydney Harbour Bridge. The event unfolds with the lightning of the honorary fire at the Sydney Opera House that is carried to the Tribal Warrior, an Aboriginal vessel.

• Ferrython, one of Australia’s most popular and iconic free events where ferries go head-to-head racing from Circular Quay to Shark Island and back to Sydney Harbour Bridge. Spectators can view from Circular Quay, Sydney Opera House and the Royal Botanic Gardens. Click here for more details.
• Gun Salute – takes place at Bradfield Park under Sydney Harbour Bridge. Royal Australian Navy Flagship honours the military officers by the salute. Soon after, the National Anthem is sung. Royal Australian Air Force completes the grand ceremony with an aerial display.
• National Anthem– Australians are proud of their National Anthem and stand proud whenever is sung at various events like Olympic Games, National events and school Assembly.

Australian National Anthem

Australians all let us rejoice,
For we are young and free;
We’ve golden soil and wealth for toil;
Our home is girt by sea;
Our land abounds in nature’s gifts
Of beauty rich and rare;
In history’s page, let every stage
Advance Australia Fair.
In joyful strains then let us sing,
Advance Australia Fair.
Beneath our radiant Southern Cross
We’ll toil with hearts and hands;
To make this Commonwealth of ours
Renowned of all the lands;
For those who’ve come across the seas
We’ve boundless plains to share;
With courage let us all combine
To Advance Australia Fair.
In joyful strains then let us sing,
Advance Australia Fair.

• Harbour Parade – Sydney’s most iconic vessels parading around the harbour in a dazzling display of national spirit. Follow this link for more details. The best-dressed vessels are awarded cash prizes.
• Australian Day Regatta– is the oldest in the world for conducting annual sailing events and takes place in the afternoon for all classes of yachts. Follow this link for event details.
• Tug and Yacht ballet, a spectacular display of nautical precision as a fleet of ten Eastsail yachts and two powerful Switzer tug boats tack in unison. They change direction and formation to a musical score. Click for event details.
• Tall Ships Race– A parade of tall ships race their way down the harbour and back to Sydney Harbour Bridge. Click for more event details.
• Festival Village– situated in Hyde Park plays host to music and circus performances.

Melbourne– The Australian Day Parade is preceded by a flag-raising ceremony at Town Hall. The Governor addresses the nation. The colourful parade begins with crowds lining the streets, to cheer the participants and waving flags and banners.

• Classic Car show– it is held at the Kings Domain Gardens where over 400 vintage cars are on display. There is entertainment, special guest appearances, delicious food with activities and giveaways.

So, if you are on a trip to Australia then do not miss out Australia Day festivities.

Image courtesy Australian day

Australia day celebrations