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Top Ten Ways to Spend Australia Day
Australia Day is fast approaching. If you haven’t planned anything yet, here are some patriotic suggestions for how to spend January 26.
Listen to Triple J’s Hottest 100: This annual countdown is an Australian tradition, counting down the very best of the year that was. I hope to see local talent like Empire of the Sun, Lisa Mitchell, and The Temper Trap featured prominently. You can play it on any old radio, or head along to The Annandale Hotel from 10 am for the listening party.
Head to Hyde Park: Hyde Park will be a hive of activity from 10 am, with entertainment from Bananas in Pyjamas, comedians, world musicians, and Australia’s favourite party band Mental as Anything. The day also includes a traditional barbie, cooking demonstrations, and a wine garden. The kids will enjoy the playground, Dinosaur Petting Zoo, and netball and NRL activity zones.
See Bran Nue Dae: What better way to celebrate than with a fun, Aussie film. This musical starring Geoffrey Rush, Jessica Mauboy, Magda Szubanski, and Missy Higgins is great for the entire family.
Sample Sydney: Australia Day is the perfect time to see some of the city’s most historical buildings and attractions. Many offer discounted entrance fee, and some have no admission fee at all! Participating places include the Australian Museum, Government House, Museum of Contemporary Art, The Mint, and Parliament of NSW.
Have a barbeque: It may not be very Australian to throw a shrimp on the barbie, but we all love a few snags and some lamb chops! Well … except for the vegetarians. I’m sure they’ll be more than happy with some tofu though!
Get in touch with our cultural heritage: Yabun 2010 celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, with song, dance, arts, and crafts. It’s on at Victoria Park from 10 am to 6 pm.
Hit the beach: Tuesday’s estimated to hit a balmy 29 degrees. Sydney’s beaches are the ideal way to cool down. Just remember to pack the hat and sunscreen!
Head to a citizenship ceremony: Welcome Australia’s newest residents at Hyde Park at 2 pm. This ceremony is a heartwarming reminder that Australia is a truly multicultural nation that is growing all the time.
Hop on a vintage bus: A fleet of vintage double-decker buses will ride around the city, taking travelers back to a golden age of transport. Look for stops along George, Bridge, Alfred, Pitt, Elizabeth, Bathurst, Harbour, and Hay Streets. A ride is a lot cheaper than the modern alternative, with trips costing a gold coin donation.
Go to Darling Harbour: There’s always plenty on at Darling Harbour, and Australia Day is no exception. It kicks off at 11:30 am with the ABC for Kids concert featuring Jay Laga’aia, Roary the Racing Car, and Postman Pat. Older kids should stick around for the Australia Day Spectacular concert from 7 pm, starring Stan Walker and a massive fireworks display.
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