Welcome to your ultimate guide to NSW public holidays for the year 2024!
Whether you’re a proud New South Wales local or an eager visitor keen to explore the stunning diversity this state has to offer, you’ve landed in the right spot. From the sun-kissed beaches of Byron Bay to the majestic Blue Mountains and the vibrant streets of Sydney, NSW is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered, and what better way to plan your adventures than around the public holidays?
In this handy guide, we’ll walk you through every statewide public holiday in NSW for 2024, giving you the lowdown on when they fall, what they’re about, and the unique traditions or activities associated with each. From ringing in the New Year with spectacular fireworks over Sydney Harbour to reflecting on Australia’s rich history on Australia Day, and honouring the ANZAC spirit, there’s something special about each of these days.
But that’s not all – we’ve also packed in a treasure trove of local insights, from must-visit destinations to tips on the best times to visit based on weather, festivals, and special events. Looking to make the most of the Easter holidays? Keen to experience the vibrant colours of NSW in winter during the King’s Birthday weekend? Or maybe you’re planning a festive Christmas getaway? We’ve got you covered.
Plus, we delve into some of NSW’s exclusive holidays like the Bank Holiday, shedding light on what they entail and who they affect. And for those curious about the blend of statewide and regional public holidays, we break down the difference and highlight some regional holidays you might not want to miss.
So, grab your calendar and start dreaming up your next NSW adventure. With this guide, planning your 2024 has never been easier or more exciting. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of NSW public holidays and all the joy they bring!
STATEWIDE PUBLIC HOLIDAYS NSW 2024
| Holiday | Date | Holiday Type | Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | Monday, 1 January 2024 | Public | NSW Wide |
| Australia Day | Friday, 26 January 2024 | Public | NSW Wide |
| Good Friday | Friday, 29 March 2024 | Public | NSW Wide |
| Easter Saturday | Saturday, 30 March 2024 | Public | NSW Wide |
| Easter Sunday | Sunday, 31 March 2024 | Public | NSW Wide |
| Easter Monday | Monday, 1 April 2024 | Public | NSW Wide |
| Anzac Day | Thursday, 25 April 2024 | Public | NSW Wide |
| King’s Birthday | Monday, 10 June 2024 | Public | NSW Wide |
| Bank Holiday* | Monday, 5 August 2024 | Public | NSW Wide |
| Labour Day | Monday, 7 October 2024 | Public | NSW Wide |
| Christmas Day | Wednesday, 25 December 2024 | Public | NSW Wide |
| Boxing Day | Thursday, 26 December 2024 | Public | NSW Wide |
Explore New South Wales public holidays scheduled for 2024 with us here.
We have all of the essential details compiled, from dates to holiday names and unique features associated with each. Whether you live here year-round or are just passing through, knowing these dates will help plan activities more easily – be they residents planning their year ahead or visitors exploring NSW.
- New Year’s Day (January 1st, 2024): New Year’s Day marks the beginning of the calendar year. It’s a time for celebrations, reflection, and setting resolutions for the year ahead. Australians often enjoy outdoor activities, picnics, and fireworks displays to welcome the new year.
- Australia Day (January 26th, 2024): Australia Day commemorates the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788, marking the foundation of the colony of New South Wales. It’s a day to celebrate Australia’s diverse culture, history, and achievements. Festivities include citizenship ceremonies, community events, and fireworks.
- Easter Holidays (April 5th – April 8th, 2024): Easter is a Christian holiday that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Good Friday (April 5th) marks the crucifixion of Jesus, while Easter Monday (April 8th) is a day to continue the Easter celebrations. It’s a time for religious observance, family gatherings, and Easter egg hunts.
- Anzac Day (April 25th, 2024): Anzac Day commemorates the courage and sacrifice of Australian and New Zealand soldiers who served in wars and conflicts. It honors the spirit of the Anzacs (Australian and New Zealand Army Corps). Ceremonies often include dawn services, parades, and wreath-laying ceremonies.
- King’s Birthday (June 10th, 2024): King’s Birthday is a public holiday that honors the reigning monarch’s birthday. While it is the official birthday of the current monarch, it is also a time for community events, parades, and family outings. In Australia, it is typically celebrated on the first Monday in October.
- Christmas Holidays (December 25th – December 26th, 2024): Christmas is a Christian holiday that celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. It’s a time for families to come together, exchange gifts, and enjoy festive meals. Christmas Day (December 25th) is followed by Boxing Day (December 26th), which is known for shopping sales and sports events.
Popular Destinations in NSW
New South Wales is an incredibly varied state that boasts an array of popular holiday spots. Discover some of the most desirable holiday spots to visit during public holidays in 2024 in NSW; from bustling Sydney to serene Blue Mountains each destination provides memorable experiences for travelers of all kinds.
Sydney: As the lively capital city of NSW, Sydney is famous for its iconic landmarks, beautiful beaches and cultural events. Visit iconic spots such as Sydney Opera House, Bondi Beach or Royal Botanic Garden on your journey.
Blue Mountains: Situated only an hour’s drive away from Sydney, the Blue Mountains provide nature lovers with an idyllic natural paradise. Explore breathtaking landscapes, visit the Three Sisters and embark on scenic hikes – this region will not disappoint.
Hunter Valley: Wine enthusiasts will adore exploring the Hunter Valley’s acclaimed vineyards and wineries, where tastings, gourmet dining, and picturesque countryside await them.
Byron Bay in northern NSW provides an ideal coastal atmosphere, making it an attractive holiday destination for beachgoers, surfers, and those in search of relaxation. South Coast: Offering beautiful beaches, picturesque coastal towns and outdoor activities such as whale watching and bushwalking – The NSW South Coast boasts everything to keep holiday-goers occupied for days at a time!
When to Visit NSW
Timing is of utmost importance when planning a holiday in New South Wales. Explore the advantages of traveling during specific public holidays, weather conditions or special events or festivals which enhance your travel experience.
Easter Holidays: Experience NSW’s spectacular natural beauty during April with ideal autumn weather for outdoor adventures. Anzac Day: Come together on April 25th for dawn services and parades honouring Anzacs across NSW.
King’s Birthday: October brings spring blooms and pleasant temperatures, perfect for exploring gardens and outdoor attractions.
Christmas Holidays: Celebrate this joyous holiday season in NSW by exploring Christmas markets, events and dazzling light displays across NSW.
Local Insights and Events
Unlock local knowledge that will enhance your holiday experience in NSW. Take part in special celebrations around public holidays to become immersed in local culture.
Sydney New Year’s Eve Fireworks: Witness Sydney Harbour’s breathtaking New Year’s Eve fireworks for yourself; an event not to be missed!
Visit Sydney in May or June and don’t miss Vivid Sydney: an immersive festival of light, music, and ideas which transforms the city with eye-catching installations and projections.
Tamworth Country Music Festival: Each January, Tamworth hosts its country music festival which draws music lovers from across Australia to participate.
NSW School Holidays: When traveling with children, be mindful of NSW school holiday dates in order to plan activities suitable for families.
Stay tuned for more information on each public holiday, special event, travel tips and holiday activities in New South Wales.
About the New South Wales Bank Holiday
The NSW Bank Holiday is held on the first Monday in August each year. This holiday is exclusive to New South Wales. It is not a typical statewide public holiday as it only applies to certain employees that work within the banking sector. The Banks and Bank Holidays Act 1912 requires all banks in New South Wales to be closed on the day. Some businesses closely associated with banks will also close for the day, typically if the bank holiday is included as a paid holiday in their award or agreement.
ABOUT NSW PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
In New South Wales, public holidays can be divided into two groups – Statewide and Regional.
Statewide NSW Public Holidays are recognised by all regions throughout New South Wales. Some examples of statewide public holidays include Australia Day, ANZAC Day, King’s Birthday and Boxing Day.
Regional NSW Public Holidays are special holidays that are only recognised in specific regions of New South Wales. The majority of the time these regional public holidays are held for local shows or on some occasions for horse racing events. Some regions even have part day public holidays, such as Grafton which has a half day holiday for the Ramornie Race Day and a half day holiday for the Grafton Cup Day.