From picnic rugs on local ovals to packed pub dance floors and long-awaited fireworks displays, communities across New England are preparing to ring in 2026 with a full slate of New Year’s Eve celebrations. Here’s just a few of the events happening tonight. Feel free to add more on our Facebook page!
Tamworth
Tamworth locals are spoilt for choice this New Year’s Eve, including a fireworks celebration many have been waiting for.
Bicentennial Park’s “Bright Futures 2025” event is the heart of the day’s celebrations, with festivities kicking off at midday and stretching well into the evening. A family-friendly 9pm fireworks show will cap off the park celebrations before locals head off to more adult-oriented activities.
The Tamworth Kart Racing Club will host a New Year’s Eve Family Fun Day at the Oakburn Kart Track from 2.00pm to 9.30pm, featuring kids activities, food vendors, live music and a massive fireworks display.
Country music fans can head to The Pub for Howdy’s Hoedown, while Upstairs at Diggers promises the biggest party of the night with Rockafellas, Alex Hayes and Breezy, doors opening at 9.00pm.
Armidale
Armidale will welcome the new year with fireworks at Rologas Sports Field on Taylor Street, igniting at 9.00pm and visible from vantage points around the city.
Earlier in the evening, Peter Raymond will DJ the New Year in at the Armidale City Bowling Club, while The Royal Hotel Armidale will host a car park party with live music from Rick Cuthel, and the action will be on the balcony at the Whitebull with live music from Gracie Gilbert.
Guyra
Guyra’s New Year’s Eve celebrations will once again take over the Sports and Recreation Grounds on Ollera Street, with gates opening at 5.30pm. The family-friendly event will feature free face painting, food vendors and live music from local band Rough Justice.
Food options range from sausage sizzles and gourmet baked potatoes to Thai street food, burgers, coffee and ice cream. Fireworks will light up the sky at 9.00pm, with residents asked to secure pets ahead of the display. The event is presented by the Guyra and Community Progress Association in partnership with Armidale Regional Council.
Somerton
The Somerton Hotel is bringing in the new year with live music from Grizzly and a community BBQ, with all proceeds going to Somerton Primary School.
Inverell
At the Inverell RSM Club, New Year’s Eve will feature live music from the Cambooya Rockers, dinner specials including parmis, brisket and barramundi, and a return of the popular garlic prawn pizza. Dancing and a midnight countdown will round out the night.
Moree
The Moree Services Club will host a New Year’s Eve party from 7.30pm, with live music from Bac Road Connection, drink specials, a courtesy bus service and celebrations running late.
Glen Innes
Rock fans can head to the Great Central Hotel, where George Marlow will be joined by special guest Joel Skinner for a high-energy New Year’s Eve performance.
Bingara
The Imperial Hotel will host live music from Sixfold, performing from 8.00pm.
Murrurundi
Classic rock takes centre stage at The Royal Hotel Murrurundi, with Short n Curly performing hits from the 70s to the 90s from 8.00pm.
Tenterfield
Tenterfield celebrations include live music and pizza at Bruxners Run Vineyard and Winery, with camping and breakfast available, Dan Grace at the Lunatic Hotel in Drake, Bliss Bomb at the Tenterfield Bowling Club, and Sabotage rocking the Tenterfield Tavern.
Know of something else happening tonight? Post it on Facebook!
Something going on in your part of the New England people should know about? Let us know by emailing newsdesk@netimes.com.au