MAIN Home Life Holidays Australia Day

Australia Day, January 26th, began as a commemoration of Captain Arthur Phillip taking formal possession of the colony of New South Wales and becoming the first Governor. Through the years the Australia Day celebrations have changed, In 1818, the first official celebration was marked by a 30 gun salute and an invitation-only dinner ball.

Later celebrations, on what became known as Foundation Day, were marked by sporting events. Horseracing and regattas became popular and one, the Australia Day Regatta, is still held on January 26th.

Today, the date is a community day recognizing both the settlers and the indigenous people of Australia. The formal ceremonies start on Australia Day eve and continue through to the next day.

Flag raising, citizenship ceremonies, and the presentation of community awards are combined with breakfasts, local events and fun activities for families throughout Australia. Fireworks and parades can be seen in communities of all sizes. The lawns of Parliament House in Canberra are the site of festivities, concerts and lightshows.

"Survival Day" is an alternative celebration of this date by the indigenous people, but both white and black Australians are working to make this a day that can truly be celebrated by all Australians equally.

Since the dawn of the Internet, Australians have sent e-cards and greetings to mark the festivities of Australia Day. For Aussies who are away from home for the summer festivities, it's a great way to share in the fun...

Australia Day - The official government site with updates on related events in each state, Australian of the Year information and lots of fun and games to play online based on the history of Australia and the celebrations...

Celebrate! Australia Day Live 2007 - The eve of Australia Day - January 25th features a rocking concert and light show on the lawns of Parliament House in Canberra, with all the festivities broadcast live on Network Ten.

European Discovery and Settlement of Australia - The history of settlement by Europeans in Australia has lead to the shaping of the modern nation which is celebrated on January 26th, but the Indigenous Australians look upon the date as the beginning of the disruption of their culture by the new settlers. Australia is making advances in bringing all of it's cultures together in a celebration of the unity of its people...

Australia Day e-Cards By Mouse - Choose from a selection of cute, patriotic or uniquely Aussie e-card greetings for Australia Day. They have animated flags, Vegimite and others that might hit the spot...

Australia Day New South Wales - Great pictures, ideas for decorating your boat and the right way to fly the flag are just a bit of the info you'll find here. Survival Day is represented with a section that presents the celebrations from the point of view of the native people with a large number of links to more background and resources...

Also see -> Australia | Sydney Tourist Attractions

Australia Beaches | Australia Wine Tours

Australian Open