A brighter start to the year: Port Vincent Gala Day returns January 1
PORT Vincent is set to burst into life this New Year’s Day as the much-loved Port Vincent Gala Day makes its return — bigger, brighter and better than ever.
Community spirit meets summer celebration
From 2pm until late on Thursday, January 1, 2026, the Port Vincent foreshore will be the heart of the action.
The New Year’s Day gala has long been a cherished tradition for locals, visitors and shack owners, and the 2026 event promises a full afternoon and evening of family-friendly fun, top-class entertainment and community pride.
“Port Vincent Gala Day is all about celebrating who we are as a community,” Natasha Mahar, Port Vincent Gala Day Committee chair, said.
“It’s a day to connect, to enjoy the foreshore, and to create lasting memories together.”
Once again, the evening will conclude with the spectacular Ignite the Night fireworks finale — lighting up the bay in style as to welcome 2026.
This much-loved tradition is made possible by the incredible generosity of local shack owners and the Friends of Port Vincent.
New experiences on the foreshore
This year introduces exciting new elements designed to delight all ages.
Acoustic performer Ryan Bernhardt will feature on the truck stage throughout the day, setting a relaxed summer vibe.
Families can enjoy an interactive music show, a bubble performance and roving balloon creations, while the high-energy Adelaide band The Uber Beats will keep the foreshore dancing into the evening, right up to the fireworks.
In a playful twist, The Kiosk at Port Vincent will debut a Donut Eating Competition — a light-hearted addition tipped to become a crowd favourite.
“There’s something new for everyone this year,” Ms Mahar said.
“We’re bringing in fresh entertainment while holding on to the traditions people love.”
Classic favourites make a return
Gala Day wouldn’t be complete without its signature attractions.
The thrilling Silver Sharks will once again take to the skies with their aerobatic displays, and the much-loved sandcastle competition will have young architects sculpting along the shoreline.
Visitors can also enjoy plaster painting, carnival rides, vintage
and classic cars, and a bustling foreshore filled with stalls and food vendors.
“Whether it’s your first time or your 15th, Gala Day brings that same special feeling of summer on the Yorke Peninsula,” Ms Mahar said.
Food, flavours and local flair
The 2026 event will feature a wide range of stallholders, offering everything from handmade jewellery and fashion to candles, metal art and baked treats.
A delicious selection of food will be available, with Greek cuisine, baked spuds, burgers, woodfired pizzas and fresh Yorke Peninsula seafood from MBC Foods among the offerings.
Everyone’s invited
Gala Day is open to all — locals, visitors and those who return each year for a taste of Port Vincent’s summer magic.
“This day is about connection, generosity and good old-fashioned fun,” Ms Mahar said.
“We’re proud to host another Gala Day and can’t wait to see everyone there to start 2026 in style.”
Volunteers wanted: Be part of the Gala Day magic!
GALA Day thrives on community spirit — and this year, the organising committee would love help to make the event shine.
They are currently seeking enthusiastic volunteers to assist across a range of areas on January 1, 2026.
Anyone who can spare a few hours can register their participation at volunteersignup.org/QPLMX.
As a small thank you, each volunteer will receive a voucher to either the Ventnor Hotel or the Port Vincent Kiosk, to enjoy during the event or throughout January.
Your time, energy and community pride will help make Gala Day a memorable start to 2026.
