Adelaide Parade of Lights: A Family Guide

Quick update for families: the evening programme in the CBD for 26 January 2026 has been cancelled due to forecast extreme heat, with temperatures expected to reach 45°C.

This guide gives you a clear, family-first plan. We explain what’s changed, what still goes ahead and simple alternatives to keep everyone safe and calm.

The Mourning in the Morning ceremony at Elder Park/Tarntanya Wama will proceed. You can also attend the 21-Gun Salute and other morning activities that respect cultural moments.

What to expect next: quick tips on staying cool, what to pack, where to head, and respectful behaviour for ceremonies.

We keep this mobile-friendly. Scan the short sections below and follow the “what to do next” prompts. You’re not missing out—you’re adapting, and we’ll help you do it confidently. 😊

Key Takeaways

• Evening festivities cancelled due to extreme heat; plan for the morning.
• Mourning in the Morning at Elder Park/Tarntanya Wama will proceed.
• Prioritise shade, water and heat-smart clothing for family safety.
• Check official channels for real-time updates on the event.
• Respect cultural ceremonies and follow simple etiquette.

What’s happening with the Adelaide Parade of Lights this Australia Day

The Aus Lights on the River evening program and the Aus Lights Parade were cancelled after authorities forecast extreme heat for Australia Day.

Organisers first shifted timings — delaying the start and earlier parade adjustments — then cancelled the full evening event when conditions worsened. The decision followed consultation with stakeholders, emergency services and the Bureau of Meteorology.

Aus Lights on the River and the Aus Lights Parade cancelled due to extreme heat

This means the planned nighttime shows, fireworks and river installations will not run. If you had a picnic, kid-friendly activities or a waterfront spot booked, those plans need rethinking.

Why organisers made the call after consultation with authorities

Event leads consulted safety experts and the Bureau of Meteorology. With a forecast around 45°C, they judged that large evening crowds would face higher health risks from heat and wind.

What this means for families who planned an evening in the city

Check official channels before you leave home. Prioritise morning ceremonies or indoor cooling spots and swap late-night plans for air-conditioned activities and early starts. It’s disappointing, but safety comes first — especially with children.

Extreme heat and safety: what families need to know

Extreme heat shifts risk quickly; on a day expected to reach 45°C you need a short, clear plan. Hot temperatures make heat illness escalate fast. Standing in crowds limits your ability to cool down.

Forecast, risks and why 45°C matters

Heat at this level raises core body temperatures and dehydration risk. Hot, windy weather also increases fire danger and can make smoke or ash more likely near open spaces.

Emergency services guidance

Stay vigilant. Monitor official warnings and be ready to change plans quickly. The Country Fire Service and State Emergency Service advise extra care for very young children and older people.

Simple family rules and packing checklist

• Shorten outings for toddlers, older relatives and anyone with medical issues.
• Choose air‑conditioned breaks and avoid long crowd waits.
• Packing: wide‑brim hat, SPF50+ sunscreen, light breathable clothing, a refillable water bottle per person and a small misting spray.

Micro‑prompt: if someone feels dizzy, nauseous or unusually tired, treat it as a stop‑now moment — don’t push through. Keep water handy and sip early, sip often. 🙂

Australia Day Council SA update and community impact

The Australia Day Council SA released a short statement that placed community safety and wellbeing above all else when changing the evening program.

Statement and wellbeing focus

The day council said the decision was made after careful advice from health and emergency services. They framed the change as a wellbeing-first action to keep families, volunteers and crowds safe.

Who was affected and why it matters

Community and multicultural groups, performers and volunteers who had prepared floats and stage performances were directly affected.

That human element matters. Many families come to see these groups — they help make the evening feel welcoming and local. It’s okay to be disappointed for them.

• Who made the call: Australia Day Council SA issued the update and explained the decision.
• Human impact: performers, vendors and crews lost planned spots and tight logistics had to shift.
• Forward view: organisers thanked groups for their understanding and said they look forward to returning this program next year.

Please share updates kindly and avoid blame online. Respectful responses help keep focus on safety and community wellbeing. 😊

Mourning in the Morning: the First Nations-led event continuing as planned

Mourning morning offers a calm, reflective start on 26 January 2026. It brings families together at the river for a short, meaningful program you can attend safely.

Where it’s held

This morning event is at Elder Park/Tarntanya Wama, on Kaurna Country beside the River Torrens/Karrawirra Parri. It’s easy to find and family friendly.

Start time and program overview

Arrive by 7:30am for a welcome to Kaurna Country. Speakers, musicians, dancers and interactive activities follow. The schedule runs through the smoking ceremony and finishes around 8:45am.

Smoking ceremony with Elder Uncle Moogy Sumner

The smoking ceremony is led by Elder Uncle Moogy Sumner. This key cultural moment is quiet and intentional. Please be present and follow the lead of ceremony hosts.

Why it matters and how to join respectfully

This is a chance to learn, reflect and come together as a community on Country. Mornings are cooler and gentler for prams and little legs.

• Confirm: the mourning morning event proceeds despite evening changes.
• Etiquette: keep voices low, follow directions and let the ceremony set the pace.
• Practical: bring water, a hat and arrive early for a calm spot.

Times and key locations families can still plan around

Plan your morning around two short, fixed windows that are easy to screenshot and share. These give you clear options and cut heat exposure for little ones.

Mourning in the Morning timing window

Mourning in the Morning: 7:30am–8:45am at Elder Park/Tarntanya Wama. Arrive early to find shade and a calm spot for kids.

21‑Gun Salute timing window at Torrens Parade Ground

21‑Gun Salute: 12:00pm–12:15pm at Torrens Parade Ground on Victoria Drive. Public viewing is limited to designated perimeter areas — arrive ahead to secure space.

How to navigate between sites

• Why timing matters: earlier attendance reduces heat risk for children and older family members.
• Navigation mindset: plan shaded routes, include water stops and pick one clear landmark as a meet‑up point near each entrance.
• Heat‑safe option: if midday feels too hot, skip the salute and choose an indoor cool‑down instead — that’s okay.

What the Adelaide Parade of Lights usually includes in a normal year

In past programs, the procession gave families a clear, riverside route to follow and enjoy. You could expect colourful floats, music and local groups bringing a joyful crowd feel.

Parade start point and route

The walk typically began near the Oval, moved across the Torrens footbridge and finished in Elder Park / Park Tarntanya. That short river route made the procession easy for prams and small legs.

How viewing areas typically work

Designated viewing areas sit along the river edge. They help manage crowds, keep paths clear and give families safer standing room. Arrive early to claim a shady spot and set a meet point.

What “Respecting Country” means

Respecting Country frames the storytelling. First Nations connection to Country is central—welcome, reflection and listening are part of the experience.

Community and performers

More than 60 South Australian groups and performers often make the procession memorable. Watch for roving acts, cultural segments and moments that invite people to join in.

Tip: bring a picnic mat, choose a landmark meeting point and arrive earlier than you think for the best river spot. You’ll catch the heart of the event and save stress later. 😊

Aus Lights on the River: what the evening event is designed to celebrate

Aus Lights on the River was designed as a free, community-focused night that celebrates stories, place and connection along the water.

The theme Respect, Reflect, Celebrate is practical. Respect honours First Nations histories and living culture. Reflect invites quiet listening and shared memories. Celebrate brings people together for music, colour and joy.

Belonging to Country is central. The River Torrens/Karrawirra Parri is not just backdrop. It shapes the story, the choreography and the sensory route families follow.

Installations used light, vision and sound cues to build “Our SA Story.” Kids could sense scenes by sound and colour even if they didn’t read every sign. Families wandered, watched short performances, visited food hubs and tried creative zones.

Quick tip: if you plan to go in future years, arrive before dark so children can find a calm spot before the lights draw crowds.

Family-friendly experiences that have featured at Aus Lights

Kids zones at past Aus Lights events turned riverbank walks into playful learning pockets.

Aus Lights 4 Kids: face painting, roving entertainers and creative play

Aus Lights 4 Kids was aimed at early primary ages. You’d find face painting, roving entertainers and simple hands-on play.

Activities were drop-in. No special skills were needed—just comfy clothes and a little patience for queues. Perfect for curious little ones.

Nylon Zoo and the inflatable Story Space

Nylon Zoo ran an inflatable Story Space where children dress up and move like animals while a guide tells the story.

You’ll spot oversized bushland and marine creatures — echidna, bilby, shark and platypus, plus playful mascots like Ruby Roo. They make great photos and spark questions.

Hands-on arts and crafts for younger children

Small art stations offered heritage- and diversity‑inspired projects. These were short, guided and family-friendly.

• What to expect: playful sets, bright props and short guided sessions.
• Practical note: Story Space can have limited capacity and short waits — plan flexible timing.
• Reassurance: most activities are drop-in and built for families to join easily.

Tip: if you visit a future program, arrive early for the kids zones and pack water and a spare change of clothes. These areas make the event feel gentle and joyful for children. 😊

Performances and program highlights families look for

Evening lineups usually mix headline singers, youth ensembles and short story segments that suit families. These moments balance music and meaning so kids can listen, learn and enjoy.

Music acts and ensembles that have appeared

Recent bookings for the cancelled 2026 evening program included The Voice Australia winner Diana Rouvas and the Adelaide Youth Orchestra. Past seasons have also featured John Schumann and the Festival Statesmen Chorus.

Community leaders and storytelling on stage

Story moments let community leaders share personal memories and local history. That helps young people connect names and faces to the day’s themes.

• What highlights mean: headline music, local ensembles and story-driven stage pieces.
• Why stories matter: they link celebration to lived experience and help teens engage.
• Family tip: pick one “must-see” act and keep the rest flexible to avoid meltdowns and crowd stress.
• Crowd reality: events this size can draw ~25,000 people, so plan arrival time, toilets and a clear meeting spot.

For official program updates and details, check the event page here. 😊

Fireworks and the evening finale: what’s been planned in past programs

Fireworks have traditionally acted as the event’s punctuation mark, helping crowds time their exit. Families set dinner, a final wander and home routines around that big bang in the sky.

Why fireworks often close the night at Elder Park

Elder Park usually hosts the finale because its river setting gives great sightlines and a clear meeting point. That makes it easier for families with prams and young kids to plan a safe exit.

Practical value: a fireworks finish creates a known end time. Parents use it to time dinner, naps and transport home. Crowds gather early to keep a good spot and avoid last-minute scrambles.

What to do if the fireworks change at short notice

The Australia Day Council SA confirmed the evening fireworks would not go ahead in 2026. The decision came after weather forecasts showed extreme heat and safety risks.

• Backup finale ideas: gelato, a short riverside walk at sunset (only if it’s safe and cool), or an early movie to give kids closure.
• Stay flexible: weather can force sudden changes, so avoid promising children that fireworks will definitely happen.
• Quick script for parents: “It’s cancelled to keep people safe, so we’re choosing a different special ending.” 🙂

Food, water and amenities at Elder Park/Tarntanya Wama

Find quick, practical notes on food, water and basic facilities at Elder Park so your family stays comfortable.

Food Hub and vendor-style dining

Morning offerings are simple. Expect hot and cold drinks and small pastries during the mourning program.

The Food Hub in past programs ran vendor-style stalls with easy grab-and-go options and a mix of flavours. It suits families who need a quick bite between activities.

Water and keeping kids hydrated

Water stations are on site and free to use. Bring a named refillable bottle for each child and offer small sips often.

Tip: refill before you leave a shaded spot so you’re never desperate in warm conditions.

Toilets, access and practical planning

Toilets with disability access sit inside the event footprint. Nearby public toilets exist but hours can vary, so plan accordingly.

Pack: wipes, a small towel and a spare shirt — heat plus snacks can be messy. Choose meet-up spots near amenity blocks if someone needs frequent breaks. 😊

Getting there and getting around: a practical guide for families

A smooth arrival makes the morning easier for everyone. Plan one clear route and a simple meet-up before you leave home.

Best drop-off ideas and meeting points near Elder Park entrances

Choose a named entrance and set a visible meet-up point beside the Information Tent inside Elder Park. The tent is easy for people to find and a good default if anyone gets unsure.

Use the King William Road entrance as a drop-off if you need quick access — emergency personnel are usually adjacent there and by the amenities block, which doubles as a practical landmark.

Managing prams, sensory needs and crowd-friendly movement

Keep prams to the edges of paths and avoid narrow pinch points. Park them so they do not block flow for other people.

For children with sensory needs, pack noise‑cancelling headphones and a short “quiet break” loop: toilets → water → shade → activity. That predictable circuit helps calm kids quickly.

What to do if you get separated: simple reunion plans

Teach children to find the Information Tent or a uniformed staff member and show them a pocket card with a parent phone number.

Pick one reunion spot — perhaps the amenities block — and agree a time window. Arrive earlier than you think so you have time at the meeting areas before the event starts.

On-the-day help, security and medical support

If something doesn’t feel right on the day, head straight to the main support zone near the King William Road entrance. That area sits by the amenities block and is the quickest place to find help during the ceremony or any public event.

Where St John’s and emergency teams typically station

St John’s ambulance service, event Security and SA Police will be positioned adjacent to the King William Road entrance and the amenities block. You’ll see first‑aid tents and uniformed staff nearby.

When to ask Security or SA Police for assistance

• If a child or adult shows heat stress signs — dizziness, confusion or vomiting — ask a staff member immediately.
• If you’re lost or separated, find Security or a police officer rather than searching busy walkways alone.
• For any medical emergency, point a staff member to the person and let them radio for St John’s.

How to get help: notify a security staff member near the amenities block — they will guide you. Don’t try to push through the crowd; use the staffed zone so responders can reach you fast.

Keep walkways clear, follow instructions, and remember: asking for help is normal at large gatherings, especially on warm days. We’re all safer when people speak up early. 😊

How to plan your visit when weather changes the program

When conditions change fast, a simple plan helps you switch from outdoors to cool indoor options. Start with a quick check and pack light for flexibility.

Checking official updates before you leave home

Pre-departure checklist:

• Check Australia Day Council SA updates and BOM warnings that morning.
• Scan emergency services advice and event social feeds for last-minute notes.
• Have a meet-up spot and a charged phone ready.

Heat-day alternatives in Australia for families when outdoor events cancel

If the evening program is cancelled after safety consultation, choose calm indoor plans.

• Cinemas, galleries or libraries for cool, quiet time.
• Indoor play centres or a short early swim with strict sun safety.
• A local cafe or museum can be a low-stress swap for an evening event.

Planning shorter outings: early starts, shade breaks and air-conditioned resets

Do the 7:30am ceremony, then retreat to air-conditioning before midday heat peaks. Schedule shade breaks like appointments—every 30–45 minutes—and offer water often.

Gentle prompt: keep the day meaningful even if it’s smaller than planned. Kids remember your calm more than the schedule. 😊

Respectful participation: Country, community and culture

Start the day with a calm, First Nations-led gathering that centres listening and shared respect. This mourning ceremony is a short, intentional time to honour Kaurna Country and the living history in this place.

Acknowledging Kaurna Country and Tarntanya Wama

Kaurna Country is more than a map pin. It’s the living cultural context for Tarntanya Wama and Park Tarntanya Wama.

Please arrive mindful that the space holds stories for First Nations people and community.

Tips for attending with care and openness

• Arrive quietly: follow the MC, keep phones low and let speakers lead the ceremony.
• Language matters: recognise Aboriginal Torres and Torres Strait Islander histories and listen rather than “solve”.
• Prepare kids: brief them simply about gathering to reflect and why respect matters.
• Ask later: curiosity is welcome after formal moments—save questions until hosts finish.

This event is a chance to come together, centre truth‑telling and share responsibility as a community. For official updates and related listings, check the event listings.

Conclusion

Even with the evening program cancelled, you can still shape a calm, meaningful Australia Day morning for your family.

The Aus Lights on the river evening program, the Aus Lights parade and fireworks were called off due to extreme heat. Instead, choose the cooler mourning morning window at Elder Park/Tarntanya Wama (7:30am–8:45am). The smoking ceremony led by Elder Uncle Moogy Sumner will be part of this morning event.

Plan short outings, pack for heat, and build in air‑conditioned breaks for children and older people. A 21‑Gun Salute runs 12:00pm–12:15pm at Torrens Parade Ground if you prefer a midday option.

Arrive ready to listen, learn and be present. Check Australia Day Council SA and emergency updates before you leave, and adapt plans without guilt when weather or safety advice changes.

Decide one “must‑do” — morning ceremony, the salute or a cool indoor swap — and keep the rest optional. Even with cancellations, you’re taking part in a shared, caring community response on this day. 😊