Sydney's New Year's Eve celebration has traditionally scheduled its family fireworks show for 9 p.m.
The earlier display is designed for children and families who may not stay awake until midnight. It forms part of the larger Sydney Harbour celebration, which also includes aerial displays, lighting effects, and a major midnight fireworks show centered on the harbour and its landmarks.
Sydney's location in the Southern Hemisphere means its New Year arrives during summer. The harbour setting, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and Opera House give the event a distinctive visual identity, while television and online broadcasts have made it widely recognizable around the world.
The 9 p.m. program should not be confused with the midnight fireworks. Schedules can be adjusted for weather, safety, or event planning, but the family display has traditionally used the 9 p.m. slot.