Australia Day celebrations return to Parramatta this year with a free afternoon-to-evening concert at Parramatta Park on 26 January, headlined by Australian country-rock singer Shannon Noll.
Noll will be joined by electronic rockers Rogue Traders and R&B band CDB as part of a full program running from 4pm. The event includes a hot air balloon illumination known as Balloon Glow, a BBQ Zone, camel rides, roving performers, amusement rides, workshops and a wide range of food stalls, with the concert staged at Parramatta Park.
City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Martin Zaiter said the day was designed as a gathering point for locals and visitors.
“We live in the best country in the world, and our Australia Day event is a chance to come together, reflect and celebrate what unites us as a community,” Cr Zaiter said.
He said recent events had sharpened the need for togetherness.
“The terrorist attack in Bondi has shaken our entire country, but it has also reminded us of the strength and resilience of the Australian spirit.
“Now, more than ever, we need to come together in peace and we welcome everyone to join us at Parramatta Park for great Aussie music, food and family friendly activities.”
The celebrations extend beyond the park. The 2026 Citizen of the Year awards will be held on 25 January at Parramatta Town Hall, followed by an Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony the next morning, where 80 residents will officially become Australian citizens.
“As the son of migrants myself, I know how special Citizenship ceremonies are and I look forward to welcoming our new citizens to our wonderful City,” Cr Zaiter said.
He said the day would recognise both Australia’s shared civic history and the depth of its cultures.
“Parramatta is a rich tapestry of cultures with more than 128 nationalities and 117 different languages represented in our community—it’s what makes our City so special.
“This year, we will come together to celebrate the 125th anniversary of Federation when Australia came together as a nation while acknowledging the 65,000+ years of continuous culture of First Nations people and their ongoing connection to Country.”
The City of Parramatta’s 2026 Australia Day celebrations are supported by venue partner Greater Sydney Parklands. Further details on the program are available via the City’s Australia Day information page.
For more information about what’s on this Australia Day, visit atparramatta.com/australia-day.
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