![Fireworks erupting over Lake Albert](https://regionriverina.com.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2023/08/ED8626C3-C3B6-4728-B9AA-3EE51EBFA9FB-1200x900.jpeg)
Locals from across the region gathered at Lake Albert for New Year’s Eve celebrations in previous years. Photo: Chris Roe.
Wagga Wagga City Council is inviting residents to farewell 2023 and welcome 2024 at its New Year’s Eve celebrations at Lake Albert.
The free community event will be held at Apex Park and host several family-friendly events and food trucks, capped off with fireworks at 9:30 pm.
Council’s Destination & Events Coordinator Kimberly Parker said it would be a great way for people to come together and welcome the new year.
“The focus of this event is on creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere for families to enjoy a spectacular fireworks display to celebrate the year that was,” Ms Parker said.
“There will be a variety of delicious snacks available from local food vendors throughout the night located at Apex Park.
“So, bring a picnic, camp chairs and picnic blankets, find a spot around the foreshore of the lake to settle in and enjoy a family evening.”
Following the fireworks display, attendees can continue the celebrations at home, or head out to other venues across the city where more celebrations will be held.
Residents are advised there will be changed traffic conditions on Eastlake and Lakeside drives.
“It is encouraged for those that live within walking distance to the lake to do so and for those planning to drive to the event, remember to allow extra travel time to take those traffic changes into account and to find parking,” Ms Parker said.
Council took over organising the 2023 celebrations following a lack of submissions from independent organisers interested in hosting the event.
In years past the Light up the Lake event drew crowds of about 8000 people, however the previous organisers of the event, Collab Creative, have since relocated.
Wagga Wagga City Council event officer Emma Corbett said she was more than confident the council would still put on an exciting community-based event.
“The fireworks are a very popular event held every year,” Ms Corbett said.
“Although it was disappointing to not have an independent organiser this year, council is more than committed to providing families an entertaining evening.
“Should an appropriate candidate come forward for the 2024 NYE celebrations, we would be more than open to working with them.”