Excitement builds for New Year’s Eve celebrations
Published on 19 December 2025
Palmerston North is gearing up to welcome 2026 with the free, family-friendly New Year’s Eve in The Square celebration.
The event, which has become a much-loved community tradition, will feature an evening of live entertainment, food, activities for tamariki and two fireworks displays to ensure everyone can join the celebrations.
The event gets underway at 5pm with performances throughout the night from CS House Band, Tom Knowles and The Full Noise Boys, and Superset. The team from Rollicking Entertainment will MC the event, bringing their signature energy and humour to keep the crowd on their feet.
Families can enjoy bouncy castles, face painting, and a range of children’s activities (all for free), while food trucks and local vendors will be onsite with plenty of options for kai.
To make the event accessible for all ages, two fireworks displays will take place:
- 9.30pm - an earlier display ideal for families with younger children
- Midnight – to officially welcome in 2026
Mayor Grant Smith says New Year’s Eve in The Square is the perfect way to close out a memorable year for the city.
“It’s been a great year for Palmerston North, and gathering together in the heart of our city to welcome in 2026 feels like the ideal way to celebrate. This event brings the community together in a special way and gives us a moment to appreciate all we’ve achieved while looking forward to what’s ahead.”
Council’s General Manager Customer and Community, Danelle Whakatihi, says the focus is on delivering an event that is welcoming, inclusive, and full of energy.
“New Year’s Eve in The Square is a true community occasion. It’s alcohol-free, family-friendly, and designed so everyone, from tamariki to grandparents, can enjoy the atmosphere. We’re excited to host another memorable night for the whole city.”
People are encouraged to bring a picnic blanket or chairs and settle in for a fun evening with whānau, friends, and the wider Palmy community.
Important notes
- This is an alcohol-free event
- There will be road closures – The Square from Main Street to Church Street
- This event is weather dependent – updates will be posted on the Council website and social media channels