While our lovely Sunshine State may be experiencing a little winter freeze, Brisbane is turning up the heat with a weekend of things to eat, see and do worth ditching your bed socks. From a jam-packed market showcasing handcrafted local masterpieces to a festive Christmas in July evening, and three different tribute nights for you to choose-your-own adventure (Elton John, Dolly Parton, or Pitbull?), this weekend is a busy one. There’s even a chance to play sticky beak with iconic buildings, landmarks and hidden gems unlocking their doors for this weekend only.
Check out the best things to do in Brisbane this weekend below:
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What's On All Weekend
What's On Saturday
What's On Sunday
All Weekend
Brisbane Open House
Fancy a look behind the closed doors of heritage landmarks and cutting-edge homes around town? Then you’ll be very excited to hear Brisbane Open House is returning this year, with an expansive program that unlocks 91 buildings, landmarks, and gems across the city. From behind-the-scenes tours to twilight events, this year’s edition will also mark the return of private homes to the program for the first time in five years, in partnership with Australian Institute of Architects. Other new additions include first-time access to Rivière by Aria, Milton House, and the Bradbury Park Playscape, as well as returning favourites like Newstead House, Roma Street Fire Station, Brisbane Arcade, and Centenaray Pool. You also have the very rare opportunity to descend 30 metres underground at the Roma Street Cross River Rail Station cavern. Explore the full program here.
The Details
When: Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 July
Where: Multiple locations
Find out more here.
The Made Local Market
Grab your tote bag and head on down to the Brisbane Showgrounds for a very special winter edition of The Made Local Market—a jam-packed showcase of makers, designers, artists and more. Playing host to 120+ stalls of locally made and designed wares, this ever-popular two-day event is your chance to get your hands on truly unique finds crafted with love and care. You can also expect maker workshops, a live drawing photobooth, and food trucks keeping you fuelled up for all the fun. Entry is just $2, with kids under 12 welcome for free.
The Details
When: 9am to 3pm, 19 and 20 July
Where: John Reid Pavillion, Bowen Hills
Find out more here.
Brief Encounter In Concert
The classics are classics for a reason, and David Lean’s 1945 film Brief Encounter has been hailed as one of the most romantic movies to ever grace the big screen. With a 93% on Rotten Tomatoes, we’re lucky that the Queensland Symphony Orchestra is giving us the chance to watch it cinema-style all these years later, and better yet, with a live soundtrack. So while the leading characters are falling in love at first sight, you will be falling in love at first listen to the beautiful accompaniment performed by award-winning pianist Konstantin Shamray. Tickets are ranging from $100-$140 and are starting to sell out fast, so make sure to get in quick here.
The Details
When: Saturday 19 July and Sunday 20 July
Where: QPAC, South Bank
Find out more here.
Love Follows A Line
While spring might still be a hop, skip and a jump away, Brisbane Quarter is now blooming with a joyful, larger-than-life installation by internationally recognised artist Matthew Aberline. Love Follows A Line brings a world of colour to Podium 1 in the form of an oversized inflatable flower garden sparking moments of wonder and connection. Designed to complement GOMA’s Wonderstruck exhibition, the immersive piece is now open until 16 August and free to visit daily. In fact, it’s even inspired Brisbane Quarter’s on-site restaurants, who have created themed sips and bites exclusively for the installation—think floral cocktails at Persone, a playful tapioca pudding at Phat Boy, and crisp asparagus served chilled over ice at Brisbane Phoenix.
The Details
When: Until 16 August
Where: Brisbane Quarter, 300 George Street, Brisbane CBD
Find out more here.
Wynnum Fringe
The bayside is once again set to be the backdrop of music, comedy, cabaret, and circus shows with the return of Wynnum Fringe. Dropping a stellar line-up for its sixth year, the quirky winter arts festival is back from 2 to 20 July with plenty to get around. The iconic Augathella Spiegeltent will once again host the Wynnum B&S Ball featuring comedy royalty Wil Anderson and Dave Thorton, with hit cabaret show Rhonda’s After Party also set to return and five-star adults-only cabaret circus show RAILED serving as the cheekiest night out. You can also expect magic shows, Dolly Parton tributes, a hugely popular millenial dance party/sing-along, and Romeo & Juliet retellings—grab your tickets and check out the full program here.
The Details
When: 2 to 20 July
Where: Bay Terrace, Wynnum
Find out more here.
Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience
Grab your wands and venture into the awe-inspiring woods of Sirromet Winery in Mount Cotton, as the breathtaking Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience is kicking off this weekend. Here, a dazzling light trail will guide you through illuminated moments from the world of Harry Potter. Featuring iconic characters from both the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts series, you can set your sights on hippogriffs, unicorns, and nifflers—without the fear of He-Who-Shall-Not-Be-Named around the corner. Grab your tickets here.
The Details
When: From 20 June
Where: Sirromet Winery, Mount Cotton
Find out more here.
Friday 18 July
Rocketman: The Elton John Experience
Hey, tiny dancer—this Friday, Eat Street Northshore is transforming into a glitter-soaked and sequin-spangled tribute to Sir Elton John for one musical massive night. Hosting the internationally acclaimed Rocketman: The Elton John Experience, enjoy a dazzling performance from world-class Elton tribute artist Greg Andrew—who has brought beloved anthems to life for more than 500,000 fans around the world. Post up by the cosy fire pits and get your hands on a limited-edition Rocketman cocktail, soundtracked by a truly spectacular show. Entry is just $6.
The Details
When: From 7:30pm 18 July
Where: Eat Street Northshore, Hamilton
Find out more here.
Christmas In July
Follow the merry sound of jingling bells to Woolloongabba’s South/City/SQ this Friday, for an enchanting Christmas in July full of market stalls, global flavours, and family-friendly entertainment. The precinct is set to transform into a magical wonderland offering handcrafted treasures and unique gifts, as well as festive treats including gingerbread cookies and cake stalls. We hear even Santa himself will be making a special appearance—making time in his busy schedule to enjoy the diverse line-up of food trucks and enchanting atmosphere.
The Details
When: 4:30pm to 9pm, Friday 18 July
Where: South/City/SQ, Woolloongabba
Find out more here.
Saturday 19 July
Nundah by Night Fiesta Markets
Nundah’s favourite twilight market is set to transform into a full-blown street party on Saturday 19 July, with live beats, gourmet eats, unique artisan stalls, and roving performers. Expect a killer lineup of Southeast Queensland’s top food vendors—from The Churro Hub’s crispy sweet treats to Okinawa Taco Brothers’ taco rice bowls and South Smoke & Co’s tender brisket and juicy pulled pork. There’ll also be a pop-up bar pouring local brews and mulled wine, as well as over 120 stalls to explore. The best part? Entry will only cost you $3.
The Details
When: 4pm to 10pm, Saturday 19 July
Where: Station Street, Nundah
Find out more here.
Pitbull Appreciation Party
Celebrate the man/the myth/the legend that is Mr Worldwide at The Brightside’s Pitbull Appreciate Night, pumping out banger after banger from the icon himself. With free bald caps for the first 50 people and a Pitbull look-a-like competition encouraging you to show up and show out, this night requires you to give them everything—dale. Grab your tickets here.
The Details
When: From 11pm, Saturday 19 July
Where: The Brightside, Fortitude Valley
Find out more here.
Never Ending 80s
Pull on your leg warmers and get ready to party like it’s 1989 at Australia’s biggest 80s party. Taking over the Grand Ballroom at Eatons Hill Hotel with big hair and big hits, you can expect a totally rad night full of power ballads, pop anthems and everything in between—from Prince to Madonna, Cyndi Lauper, INXS, Bon Jovi, Whitney Houston and more. Grab your tickets here.
The Details
When: 7:30pm Saturday 19 July
Where: Eatons Hill Hotel, Eatons Hill
Find out more here.
Sunday 20 July
Scenic Rim Farm Gate Trail
Round up your crew, empty that esky, and hit the road—the Destination Scenic Rim Farm Gate Trail is back for not one, but two days of country charm and farm-fresh produce this year. This is your chance to step out of the city and straight into the heart of the Scenic Rim, where local farmers, winemakers, brewers, and artisans are throwing open their gates. Spend the day cuddling adorable baby animals, strolling through flower fields, sipping craft beer, and indulging in honey and platters of cheese straight from the paddock. You will definitely want to make a stop at the Tamborine Mountain Distillery to sample their new Yuzu Gin and Yuzu Vodka. You can also wander through olive groves, take in the rolling vineyards, stock up on just-picked garlic and veggies, and even steal a kiss from a friendly camel–if you’re not already clearing your schedule for this we’re seriously concerned.
The Details
When: 9am to 3pm, Sunday 20 July
Where: Scenic Rim
Find out more here.
Dolly: I Will Always Love You
Experience the ultimate tribute to country music royalty with this high-energy show celebrating all things Dolly Parton. Capturing her career spanning over 100 million records sold and 26 number one hits, Dolly: I Will Always Love You masterfully captures the essence of Dolly and her legacy with powerhouse vocals, stunning costumes, and all your favourite tunes. Grab your tickets here.
The Details
When: 3pm Sunday 20 July
Where: 166 Bay Terrace, Wynnum
Find out more here.
For more of what’s on in Brisbane, head here.
Main image credit: Dolly: I Will Always Love You | Facebook