About 15,000 people are expected at the family-friendly event on December 31, although that number could increase as Shellharbour Club confirmed it would no longer be holding fireworks on New Year's Eve.

Wollongong City Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery said the fireworks display over the harbour would proceed in consultation with emergency services and if the weather conditions were suitable.

Read more: Fireworks to go ahead at Shellharbour carols despite councillor, community concerns

He said the popular New Year's Eve event, which starts at 5pm, would be great fun for the whole family, especially as it was alcohol-free.

"Our celebrations are all about family and friendly times spent together," Cr Bradbery said.

"We want everyone to get into the spirit of the evening and enjoy the events, food, music and fireworks.

"We'll also have an on-water feature act that'll be a fun spectacle to watch."

There will be Alice in Wonderland-themed free activities such as a giant maze, Queen of Hearts croquet, 'down the rabbit hole' interactive play space for children, an inflatable Cheshire cat and appearances by other characters from Lewis Carroll's classic novel.

Residents are encouraged to dress up as the Queen of Hearts, Cheshire cat, Alice or any other character.

There will also be a Wonderland parade prior to the evening fireworks, allowing those who dress up to show off their costumes. There will also be prizes for best-dressed.

There will also be a Mad Hatter Tea Party, giant chess and cups and saucer ride.

There will be the usual live music, roving entertainment such as stilt walkers, amusement park rides in Lang Park, stalls and the fireworks display at 9pm.

There will also be an accessible viewing area for people with disability and their carers, family and friends.

"This New Year's Eve, for some, will be a challenging time in the midst of what is going on around the state [with the bushfires] but at least the City of Wollongong can provide an opportunity for those who want to come and celebrate, and welcome in the new year," Cr Bradbery said.

"Hopefully 2020 will be a wonderful and better year for some who are facing the circumstances we are in now.

"I also hope it is a year in which we have rain.

"So here's to looking forward to the new year and welcoming it in with style and the community, where people can forget the troubles of life for a little while."

Wollongong Police Detective Chief Inspector Brad Ainsworth said the message to revellers was clear.

"Come down to the harbour precinct, enjoy yourselves but be safe," the crime manager said.

"There will be maximum police numbers at the event. We will have uniform, plain clothes, bikes and beats police out. Our job is to ensure everyone is safe.

"If you go out with your mates after, look after them. Leave together and go home together."