Skyfire returns to Lake Burley Griffin in 2024

  • Skyfire returns to Lake Burley Griffin in 2024 image
Lewis Haskew

RoundABOUT Editor

The skies above Lake Burley Griffin are set to be reignited next year when a Canberra tradition, Skyfire, makes its long awaited return. 

Following a 5-year hiatus, Canberra’s favourite radio stations, Hit 104.7 and Mix 106.3, are joining forces to both take on hosting duties for one of the city’s largest and most loved events. 

As the sun goes down on Saturday 16 March, the entertainment stage on the northside of the lake will start pumping with show-hosts from both stations warming up the crowd alongside musical artists before starting the countdown to the main attraction – Skyfire 2024. 

The show promises to be a 20-minute-long pyrotechnic bonanza, launched from barges situated within the central basin of Lake Burley Griffin, so close you feel the sonic booms run through your body and all set to a high energy soundtrack played simultaneously on Hit 104.7 and Mix 106.3. 

While sorely missed in recent years, the annual event has grown in popularity since its launch back in 1989. Growing from a lowkey display set to a soundtrack played on what was then known as FM 104.7 in front of just 10,000 people. To an afternoon and evening spectacular featuring live performances on stage at Regatta Point accompanied by food trucks and activities, all set around and above the centrepiece of Canberra – Lake Burley Griffin with at least a third of the ACT populations in attendance. 

Craig Wagstaff, General Manager of amplifyCBR (operator of Hit 104.7 and Mix 106.3) said the whole team is excited to share the news of Canberra’s largest single-day event returning in 2024.  

“There’s tremendous heritage and history around Skyfire as too, we feel, with both Hit104.7 and MIX106.3 – who will proudly present the event in-tandem.”  

“This is all possible via the genuine support the community of the Canberra-region and visitors alike, have always provided the event itself and both stations.”  

“We’re appreciative to again receive the significant support of the ACT Government who along with the event’s commercial sponsors (our partners), make the event possible together with the NCA, so many and varied agencies, local businesses and event-providers – Skyfire is back!” 

Planning for next year’s event is well underway with further announcements expected over the coming months as organisers finalise content for the night.  

One thing that is guaranteed though, is the chance for Canberrans to once again meet at the lake in a time honoured local tradition ahead of a banging fireworks spectacular like we haven’t seen in half a decade. 

Listen to more of the latest news below: