Australia Day

Australia Day is celebrated on January 26 every year. It is a national holiday in Australia. People enjoy barbecues, fireworks, and outdoor fun. It is a day to think about what it means to be Australian.

What the Day Means

January 26 marks the date in 1788 when the first British ships arrived in Australia. For many Australians, it is a day of pride and celebration. However, some Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people see it as a sad day. They remember that their ancestors lived on the land for thousands of years before the British came.

How People Celebrate

Many Australians spend the day outdoors since it falls during summer in Australia. Families have barbecues at parks and beaches. Cities put on fireworks shows and concerts. Some communities hold citizenship ceremonies to welcome new Australians. People also watch boat races and sporting events.

Fun Facts

• Australia Day falls during summer in Australia because the seasons are opposite from those in North America.
• The biggest fireworks show on Australia Day happens in Perth over the Swan River.
• On Australia Day, thousands of people become new Australian citizens in special ceremonies.

Did You Know?

Aboriginal people have lived in Australia for over 65,000 years, making them one of the oldest cultures on Earth.