Live music will run throughout the evening, featuring a line-up of popular local and regional performers. Gippsland-based acoustic artist Jay Wagstaff will open the night, followed by high-energy sets from Phoebe and the Rockhounds. As midnight approaches, the Meg Doherty Band will take the stage, building momentum and entertaining crowds through to the New Year countdown.
From 6pm until just before midnight, Myer Street and The Esplanade will be transformed into a vibrant pedestrian
festival precinct. The area will feature outdoor dining from local hospitality venues and food trucks, with many other cafés, restaurants and bars across town also trading late. The event is designed to
create a relaxed, family-friendly summer atmosphere and has become a highlight of the town’s holiday calendar.
Festival-goers are encouraged to enjoy dinner under the lights, soak up the street atmosphere and then make their way to the foreshore for two fireworks displays. A family-friendly fireworks show is scheduled for 9.30pm, followed by the traditional midnight fireworks to officially welcome the New Year.
The Lakes Entrance New Year’s Eve celebrations consistently attract thousands of locals and visitors, making it one of the largest and most recognisable New Year’s Eve events in regional Victoria.
Local accommodation providers, cafés, restaurants and retailers regularly report one of their strongest trading periods of the year, with many visitors planning their holidays around the event.
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To ensure the celebrations operate safely, road closures will be in place from 5pm to 2am. The Esplanade, between Carpenter Street and Stock Street, and Myer Street, from the roundabout to The Esplanade, will be closed to vehicle traffic during this time. No vehicle entry or exit will be permitted within the closure areas, allowing for a safe and pedestrian-friendly environment.
Extensive planning is underway to support a safe and enjoyable event. LEADA Business, Tourism and Events chair Sharen Cameron recently met with Acting Senior Sergeant Pradeep Pai from Victoria Police to finalise key safety and operational arrangements.
Planning measures include managed road closures, designated emergency access routes, enhanced crowd management and an increased police presence throughout the evening. LEADA is working closely with Victoria Police, emergency services, traffic management providers and East Gippsland Shire Council to coordinate the event.
Ms Cameron said strong collaboration was essential for an event of this scale.
“New Year’s Eve is one of the busiest nights of the year in Lakes Entrance, and public safety is always our top priority,” she said.
“We’re grateful for the proactive support of Victoria Police and all agencies involved. This level of planning allows families, locals and visitors to enjoy the celebrations with confidence.”
With an exciting entertainment program, dual fireworks displays and comprehensive safety planning in place, Lakes Entrance is set to deliver another safe, vibrant and memorable New Year’s Eve celebration for the community.
