There are few nights when Brisbane shows off quite as spectacularly as Riverfire.
On Saturday 5 September 2026, the city skyline will once again erupt in colour as Riverfire launches the opening weekend of Brisbane Festival. The afternoon flyovers are scheduled from 4.45pm, followed by the main fireworks display at 7pm sharp. It’s loud, dazzling, gloriously over-the-top—and completely free.
A quick burst of Riverfire history
Riverfire began in 1998 as the spectacular finale of Brisbane’s original Riverfestival—a celebration of the river through arts, science, sport and sustainability.
In 2009, Riverfestival and Brisbane Festival joined forces, and Riverfire became part of the city-wide arts celebration we know today. It has since grown into one of Brisbane’s most loved annual traditions, transforming the river, bridges and city rooftops into one enormous pyrotechnic stage.
This year’s display will once again be created by the rather appropriately named Foti Fireworks, with fireworks blazing across Brisbane’s skyline and the Australian Defence Force flyovers providing a suitably dramatic warm-up.
Riverfire in New Farm
Here in New Farm, Riverfire is practically a local holiday.
With the Story Bridge just down the road and plenty of beautiful homes, apartments and balconies overlooking the river and city, local Riverfire parties are serious business. Guest lists are confirmed, balconies are swept, champagne is chilled and everyone subtly positions themselves closest to the best view.
And, really—is it even a Riverfire party without flowers from Lillipollen?
We like to think of flowers as nature’s fireworks: brilliant bursts of colour, wild shapes and unexpected combinations, all without alarming the neighbours or sending the dog under the bed.
A generous arrangement of bright seasonal blooms makes a fabulous centrepiece for the dining table, kitchen island or drinks station. Or, if you prefer something a little more dramatic, let us create a bold floral moment in fiery oranges, hot pinks, brilliant yellows and rich reds—colours that look almost as good as the Brisbane skyline at 7pm.
Almost.
Whether you’re hosting a crowd, taking flowers to a friend’s riverside party or simply enjoying the spectacle from home, order your Riverfire blooms early. With half of Brisbane heading towards the river and road closures affecting the city, Fortitude Valley and surrounding areas, a little forward planning is highly recommended.
The flowers? Leave those to us.
Riverfire 2026 takes place on Saturday 5 September. Flyovers are scheduled from 4.45pm to 5.30pm, with fireworks beginning at 7pm. Visit the official Brisbane Festival Riverfire page for current event information.
