Hobart waterfront gears up for a thrilling summer of events
TasPorts is thrilled to support and host a vibrant season of summer events across the Hobart waterfront.
Posted
02 December 2024
With festivities taking place at Kings Pier Marina, Franklin Wharf, Elizabeth Street Pier, Constitution Dock, Murray Street Pier, and Princes Wharf, the waterfront will come alive with activities that celebrate rich traditions and attract visitors from around the world. Each year, these iconic events collectively draw over 100,000 attendees, making the Hobart waterfront a bustling hub of excitement and celebration.
Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race
A cornerstone of Hobart’s summer, the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race celebrates its 79th year in 2024. First held in 1945 as a casual post-Christmas sail, the event has grown into one of the world’s premier offshore yacht races. This year, more than 100 yachts will embark on the challenging journey from Sydney to Hobart, arriving at Kings Pier Marina, Constitution Dock, and Elizabeth Street Pier.
The race is a testament to endurance, teamwork, and nautical skill. TasPorts proudly supports the Rolex Sydney Hobart race village, located on Franklin Wharf between Victoria Dock and Constitution Dock. Open to the public from Friday, 27 December 2024, to Wednesday, 1 January 2025, the race village will feature live updates, entertainment, and activities for everyone to enjoy—for free. Thousands of spectators flock to the waterfront each year to witness the arrival of yachts and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
Launceston to Hobart Yacht Race
The Launceston to Hobart Yacht Race also takes pride of place on the waterfront this summer. First launched in 2007, this event offers a challenging course down Tasmania’s east coast and has grown into a key fixture on Tasmania’s sailing calendar. Yachts will berth between Elizabeth Street Pier and Brooke Street Pier, with an information centre set up at the Elizabeth Street Pier forecourt from 27 December to 1 January.
This race shares the stage with the Melbourne to Hobart Yacht Race, which also finishes in Hobart, with participants sharing berthing and information facilities. Together, these races contribute to the thriving activity on the Hobart waterfront during the summer.
Taste of Summer
A celebration of Tasmanian food, drink, and culture, Taste of Summer returns for its fourth year in 2024. Following the legacy of the iconic Taste of Tasmania, which began in 1988, this festival showcases the state’s finest produce, beverages, and culinary talent.
Running daily from Saturday, 28 December 2024, to Saturday, 4 January 2025, the festival will feature a diverse lineup of food and drink vendors, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities. On New Year’s Eve, the event will open free of charge from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., offering a fantastic opportunity for the community to experience the festive atmosphere. Last year, the festival drew nearly 100,000 attendees, demonstrating its immense popularity among locals and visitors alike.
New Year’s Eve fireworks
Hobart’s spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks display will cap off the summer celebrations. Against the backdrop of the waterfront, the fireworks will light up the night sky, offering a stunning finale to 2024 and a warm welcome to 2025.
TasPorts is working with the City of Hobart to enhance facilities and expand viewing areas along Franklin Wharf, ensuring everyone has a chance to enjoy the display. Between the race villages, Taste of Summer, and dedicated public zones, the New Year’s Eve celebrations attract tens of thousands of people each year, creating a vibrant and electric atmosphere.
A proud tradition of community support
TasPorts is proud to play a central role in these iconic Tasmanian events, which celebrate Hobart’s maritime heritage and enliven the waterfront. From world-class yacht races to Taste of Summer, this vibrant season offers something for everyone and highlights the best of Hobart’s summer.