Where to watch this year's Riverfire by Australian Retirement Trust!
It’s time to get ready as Brisbane lights up for Riverfire on Saturday, 6 September 2025 to kickstart Brisbane Festival. As the sky erupts with fireworks, bridges light up artistic installations and jets thunder above, you will feel the electricity of the city as it buzzes with excitement.
To make sure you have the best view of this spectacle possible, we have put together the ultimate guide to the best Riverfire 2025 viewing spots. From rooftop cocktails to picnic blankets and luxury cruises, there's a place for everyone to witness Brisbane’s brightest night.
Family-friendly Riverfire viewing in Brisbane
Kids love fireworks, and as one of Brisbane’s biggest and brightest displays throughout the year, it is a ‘must see’ event. Any spot along the river is sure to make their eyes light up and jump for joy, but for a truly unforgettable view, we recommend Captain Burke Park in Kangaroo Point. Located right under the Story Bridge, this park offers a playground and lush grassy areas for the kids to run around and is the perfect riverside backdrop to settle in and watch the show.
Iconic Brisbane Riverfire viewing spots
Some of the best and most popular viewing spots for Riverfire only require a picnic blanket, snacks and good company. The most iconic and scenic locations offer incredible views as the sky lights up and the music plays all along the Brisbane River.
South Bank Parklands is one of the most popular locations, with festivities running all day long. Be sure to claim your spot early along Clem Jones Promenade, River Quay or the Cultural Forecourt – these prime positions fill up fast.
The Kangaroo Point Cliffs also offer stunning panoramic views of the Brisbane city skyline, perfect for taking in the fireworks from above the cliffs. Or walk down the iconic stairs to find a grassy riverside spot to see the sky come alive with colours.
For a more relaxed atmosphere, the City Botanic Gardens provide open picnic areas surrounded by lush greenery, making it the ideal way to spend the day. The City Riverwalk offers uninterrupted riverside viewing for those wanting to be close to the action without the crowds. Mount Coot-tha Lookout is another fantastic option being just a 15-minute drive from The City and is perfect to capture a serene vantage point to take in the view of the fireworks and sparkling city skyline at night.
Restaurants and bars with the best Riverfire views
For a front row seat to the fireworks with a side of European flavour, Opa Bar + Mezze and Massimo have got you covered. Both restaurants offer a first seating available from 5pm to 7.30pm, with curated and comprehensive dining packages starting at $138 per person at Massimo and $168 per person at Opa. For those who prefer a more flexible option, the second seating from 8pm until late, lets you enjoy a la carte menus, perfect for soaking in the atmosphere while savouring your meal as the fireworks light up the sky.
Sit back and relax with waterfront views and admire the glow of the fireworks at Stilts, serving up a culinary experience specially curated by the best local chefs, accompanied by a premium drinks package from $180 per person. Or for a truly unforgettable experience, treat yourself to a waterfront table on Brisbane’s iconic Kangaroo Point Bridge with packages starting from $1,120 for a party of four from 5.15pm – 7.45pm and includes breathtaking river views paired with a premium dining experience.
Your Mediterranean Riverfire experience is sorted at Babylon with three different dining options, so you can choose your preference. A two-hour luxury meze share menu is available in the Babylon Gardens for $60 per person or restaurant seating options starting from $99 per person. No matter which option you choose, you’re in for a full sensory experience from the enticing aromas of your meal to the sights and sounds of Riverfire lighting up the Brisbane sky.
Experience Riverfire in style at Patina at Customs House for $320 per person, enjoy uninterrupted views from the Story Bridge to the Kangaroo Point Cliffs. The evening starts at 6.30pm with canapés and a four-hour beverage package featuring Taittinger Champagne, fine wines, and selected beers. Framed by the glowing lights of the bridge, continue to bask in magic with a four-course dinner served riverside, an enchanting evening awaits.
Riverland Brisbane offers all-inclusive packages starting from 5pm with live music and entertainment, ensuring a vibrant and electric atmosphere throughout the night. Join in the fun and festivities at this fantastic venue for an unforgettable celebration for $129 per person or $199 per person for the gold VIP package.
Enjoy a three-course meal with bubbles on arrival as a live vinyl DJ at The Lex, surrounded by immaculate views of the Brisbane River ensuring an incredible Riverfire experience. For $229 per adult, $200 per teenager and $60 per child, this package caters to all.
Celebrate Riverfire at Queen’s Wharf with a culinary journey that matches the spectacle of the sky. Whether you're craving authentic Italian from Cucina Regina, adventurous Latin American fusion from Azteca or sky-high cocktails at Cicada Blu, Queen’s Wharf offers the perfect backdrop to make your Riverfire night unforgettable.
The iconic Howard Smith Wharves remains one of the most iconic places to celebrate Riverfire in Brisbane. Set beneath the Story Bridge, this lively precinct offers everything from casual eats to premium banquet dining. Restaurants like Stanley, Greca, Ciao Papi and Yoko all have specially curated Riverfire menus, while those looking for a party atmosphere can head to Mr Percival’s, Felons Brewing Co. or Fiume Rooftop Bar. With its mix of energy, flavour and location, there is something for everyone along Howard Smith Wharves.
Best rooftop bars and lookouts to watch Riverfire
If you love to party in the sky, spend the night dancing and sipping cocktails under the fireworks at one of the many rooftop bars in Brisbane. Find high-altitude Riverfire experiences in Fortitude Valley at Iris Rooftop and Soko Rooftop, with vibrant décor, signature cocktails and an energetic atmosphere.
Find luxury in South Bank at Emporium Hotel's Terrace Rooftop Bar where the fireworks shimmer across the mirrored ceilings or watch from a more intimate setting at the hotel's restaurant, Firma. Or, cool off and watch the dazzling display poolside at Lina Rooftop.
Riverfire cruises in Brisbane
One of the best ways to experience fireworks is directly on the Brisbane River with a Riverfire cruise. Jump on a YOT Club cruise and enjoy a canape and drinks package with an electric atmosphere generated by a lively dance floor complete with a disco ball and live DJ.
OASIS, is also out sailing for the night! Watch on from this stunning three-story vessel as the fireworks illuminate the sky and dance on the reflection of the Brisbane River.
Head to Wilsons Outlook in New Farm, a local favourite. Perched above the Brisbane River, right above Howard Smith Wharves, it is also the perfect spot to go before or after dinner to capture panoramic views of Riverfire and Brisbane city.
Bartley’s Hill Lookout is found in the Northern Suburb of Ascot that offers incredible wide scale views of Brisbane and the fireworks that are to come.
Highgate Hill Park is tucked away just a few minutes from West End. This elevated park offers panoramic views across the city and is perfect for those who want to catch the fireworks form a peaceful green space.
