Gympie Council is producing a free night of entertainment at Nelson Reserve on New Year’s Eve, including live music, all ages activities and fireworks.
The alcohol-free event includes live music from Darren Hanlon, Shelley Short, Those Folk and Favourite Kid. This year’s headline act is Sunshine Coast folk-rock outfit Calan Mai.
The event, programmed by local arts identity Cindy Vogels, runs from 5pm to 9pm. There will be several food and drink trucks (catering to most dietary needs) with fireworks at 9pm.
Darren Hanlon’s shows are built around his narrative songwriting and storytelling and intimate connection with the audience.
Darren Hanlon IMAGE supplied
Shelley Short is an American singer-songwriter known for her evocative blend of folk, alt-country, and acoustic music.
Shelley Short IMAGE supplied
Those Folk are the transpacific-troubadours whose vocal harmonies are accompanied by rich instrumental work performed on guitar, piano, accordion, mandolin & banjo.
Those Folk IMAGE supplied
Favourite Kid are a talented sibling trio who blend indie-folk, alt-country, and modern pop.
Favourite Kid IMAGE supplied
Headliner Calan Mai is a folk-rock four-piece based on the Sunshine Coast. They combine vivid imagery, unflinching honesty and a bent sense of humour in songs you can sing along to.
Calan Mai IMAGE supplied
Family friendly activities include a Teacup Ride, face painting and aerial performances by Aerial Dreaming Circus School, while the glow-in-the-dark Wishing Wall offers a magical space for attendees to share their hopes and dreams for 2026.
Attendees are encouraged to bring picnic blankets and camping chairs.
Road closures from 3pm to 10pm include:
Monkland Street (between Bruce Highway and Jaycee Way)
Jaycee Way (from River Road to Monkland Street)
The Nelson Reserve Car Park (accessed via Jaycee Way) will be closed from 12pm to 10pm. Visitors are advised to follow detour signage and consider surrounding street and CBD parking.
For full event details, visit New Year’s Eve 2025 | Gympie Regional Council
IMAGE at top of story of 2024 New Year’s event at Nelson Reserve by Leeroy Todd
