As the countdown to 2026 begins, Home and Away fans across Ireland and Europe have been given a reason to celebrate long before the clock strikes midnight.

In a move that has sent social media into overdrive, producers have officially confirmed that two of the Australian soap’s most beloved stars, Ada Nicodemou and James Stewart,

will be welcoming the New Year in Cork, turning the city into an international fan hotspot for one unforgettable night.

For viewers who have followed Home and Away for decades, this announcement feels nothing short of historic. Not only are Ada and James fan favorites in their own right, but they also represent one of the show’s most enduring and emotionally resonant couples—both on screen and in real life. Their appearance in Cork promises more than just a celebrity sighting; it’s shaping up to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for loyal fans who have grown up with Summer Bay as a constant presence in their lives.

A New Year’s Eve to Remember

The stars, who play Leah Patterson and Justin Morgan on Home and Away, are set to headline a spectacular New Year’s Eve 2026 event on December 31st at 77 Grand Parade, Cork. From 10:00 p.m. onward, fans aged 21 and over will be invited to step into an electric party atmosphere alongside the actors themselves, counting down to 2026 shoulder to shoulder with two of Summer Bay’s most iconic faces.

According to event organizers, this is far more than a standard appearance. Guests can expect an immersive celebration designed to bring fans closer to the stars than ever before. Each ticket holder will receive a complimentary glass of prosecco, the chance to enjoy a personal photo opportunity with Ada Nicodemou and James Stewart, and a shared champagne toast as fireworks light up the sky and the New Year officially begins.

For many fans, the idea of welcoming 2026 alongside Leah and Justin—characters who have weathered heartbreak, addiction, loss, and redemption on screen—is deeply emotional. These are characters who feel like family to viewers, and this event blurs the line between fiction and reality in the most thrilling way possible.

An Intimate Afternoon with the Stars

The celebrations won’t stop once the sun sets. Earlier on December 31st, Ada and James will also take part in a special afternoon meet-and-greet event from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Address Hotel, Military Hill, St. Luke’s Cross.

This daytime gathering promises a more intimate and personal experience for fans eager to connect on a deeper level. Attendees will be treated to a live Q&A session, where the actors are expected to reflect on their journeys with Home and Away, discuss the evolution of Leah and Justin’s relationship, and share behind-the-scenes stories from the iconic Australian production.

There will also be dedicated time for one-on-one interactions, autographs, and photos, giving fans the rare opportunity to chat face-to-face with the actors in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Organizers have emphasized that tickets are strictly limited, ensuring the event maintains an exclusive feel and allowing each guest to truly savor the moment.

Fan Frenzy Takes Over Social Media

Unsurprisingly, the reaction to the announcement was immediate and explosive. Within minutes of the confirmation, social media platforms were flooded with messages of disbelief, excitement, and gratitude from fans across Ireland, the UK, and mainland Europe.

“I genuinely can’t believe Ada and James are coming to Cork. This feels like a dream,” one fan wrote. Another shared, “Celebrating New Year’s Eve with Leah and Justin in real life? I bought my tickets instantly. This is bucket-list stuff.”

For many viewers, Home and Away has been a comforting presence through decades of life changes, and the chance to meet two of its stars in person—especially during such a symbolic moment as New Year’s Eve—feels deeply personal. Fans have described the event as one of the most anticipated international cast appearances in recent years, particularly given how rare large-scale European appearances from the show’s stars have become.

A Love Story Fans Truly Believe In

Part of the excitement surrounding this visit lies in Ada Nicodemou and James Stewart’s unique connection with audiences. Their on-screen relationship as Leah and Justin has been one of Home and Away’s most compelling long-term storylines, tackling issues such as addiction recovery, trust, blended families, and second chances.

Off screen, their real-life partnership has only deepened fans’ affection for them. Viewers don’t just see actors playing a couple—they see two people whose chemistry and respect translate seamlessly from set to real life. That authenticity has made Leah and Justin one of the show’s most cherished pairings, and it’s a major reason why fans are so eager to meet Ada and James together.

A Thank You to Irish Fans

Representatives for both the event organizers and Home and Away producers have spoken warmly about the decision to bring the stars to Cork, emphasizing Ireland’s long-standing love affair with the show.

“Home and Away has an incredibly loyal audience in Ireland,” one representative explained. “This event is not just about entertainment—it’s a genuine thank-you to fans who have supported the show for many years. Bringing Ada Nicodemou and James Stewart to Cork allows us to celebrate that connection in person.”

Ireland has long been one of the soap’s strongest international markets, with generations of viewers tuning in daily. The Cork events are seen as a recognition of that dedication and a celebration of the show’s global reach.

Cork Becomes the Place to Be

With hotels already reporting increased interest and fans traveling from across Europe, Cork is set to become a buzzing entertainment hub as 2026 begins. The combination of a glamorous New Year’s Eve party, intimate fan interactions, and the presence of two major soap stars ensures the city will be firmly in the spotlight.

For Home and Away fans, this isn’t just an event—it’s a moment in time. A chance to laugh, celebrate, and connect over a shared love for a show that has been part of their daily lives for years.

As the final seconds of 2025 tick away and glasses are raised in celebration, one thing is certain: ringing in 2026 with Ada Nicodemou and James Stewart in Cork will be a memory fans will cherish long after the confetti has settled.