The Best Things To Do In Brisbane This Weekend
Dinushka Gunasekara
Brisbane Editor | Urban List
Rain, hail or shine, Brisbane is getting busy with an epic lineup of markets, pop-ups, festivals and more to ensure you don't waste a moment this weekend. Whether you're catching a gig, swinging by a market, or simply want to get on top of what's on, this weekend's a doozy.
Check out the best things to do in Brisbane this weekend below:
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All Weekend
Now You See Me Live
Image credit: Now You See Me Live | Supplied
Spoiler: You’ve never seen a magic show like this. The stage illusion spectacular Now You See Me Live—inspired by the blockbuster film franchise—is coming to Brisbane, featuring four trailblazing illusionists, shocking twists, and a performance that’ll leave you stunned. The world-class magic ensemble has been curated from around the globe for their spellbinding skills, death-defying acts and incredible showmanship. With thousands of shows up their sleeves—including sell-out residencies on Broadway and in Las Vegas—this is a production you need to see to believe. Tickets are on sale here.
The Details
When: 8 to 18 January 2026
Where: Concert Hall, QPAC, South Brisbane
Find out more here.
Annie
It’s a hard knock life but Brisbane has plenty of reasons to celebrate with a season of the ever-popular Broadway musical Annie coming to town. The nationwide tour will be taking over QPAC’s Lyric Theatre this December with a star-studded cast proving exactly why Annie is one of the most awarded and loved musicals of all time. From Broadway talent Anthony Warlow returning as Oliver “Daddy” Warbucks to the original Yellow Wiggle Greg Page in his first musical theatre role as President Roosevelt, Annie is a surefire hit the whole family will love. Grab your tickets here.
The Details
When: 27 December 2025 to 31 January 2026
Where: Lyric Theatre, QPAC
Find out more here.
UNO Social Club
Image credit: UNO Social Club | Supplied
Round up your most competitive mates because the global-hit UNO Social Club is officially coming to Brisbane for a month of epic game nights, themed cocktails and arguing about whether you can pick up/put down. Hot off the back of its Vegas residency and stints across the US and UK, the official activation will be taking over Riverland this January—transforming the waterfront bar into a full-blown UNO playground with free decks provided, of course. Book your table here.
The Details
When: Until 5 February
Where: Riverland, Brisbane CBD
SupaSocial
A free summer playground of entertainment, sport, music and games is calling your name in the heart of the city this month. Hosting good times on the daily, SupaSocial is taking over Queen’s Wharf Brisbane with $5 outdoor cinema showings, free live sport on the big screen, pickleball tournaments, lawn bowls, pool-themed putt putt and a whole lot more—including live performances from local icons. Whether you’re catching an Aussie flick on the Leisure Deck, soaking in all the action of the Australian Open, or grooving to DJ beats with a drink from the pop-up bar in hand, it’s the carefree summer of your dreams. Plus, on Sundays, SupaSocial will serve as the best way to keep the whole family busy with free games and activities, as well as roaming entertainment like stilt walkers, acrobats and balance artists that will leave your jaw hanging. Check out the jam-packed program here.
The Details
When: 2 January to 1 February 2026
Where: Queen’s Wharf, Brisbane CBD
Find out more here.
Little Shop Of Horrors
This smash-hit Broadway and Hollywood sci-fi musical is set to bloom once again at QPAC with the long-awaited revival of Little Shop Of Horrors. The outrageous comedy has enraptured millions of theatregoers around the globe, as it follows nerdy florist Seymour Krelborn and his carnivorous plant Audrey II. The full-scale production will give you plenty to sink your teeth into, from elaborate plant puppetry to unforgettable tunes led by a live six-piece band. Ravenous? Grab your tickets here.
The Details
When: Until 15 February 2026
Where: Cremorne Theatre, QPAC, South Brisbane
Find out more here.
Make A Scene: Fashioning Queer Identity And Club Culture In The 90s
Image credit: Make A Scene | Kenn Bushby Collection
Take yourself back to an iconic era of Australian queer culture with Queensland Museum's latest free exhibition: Make A Scene. The fashion-forward 90s showcase features all things colour, camp, pop culture and community—from fearless self-expressions of LGBTQIA+ identity to the Brisbane-based labels that defined the era. Coinciding with the 35th anniversary of the decriminalisation of homosexuality, the immersive exhibition is your chance to engage with personal stories that unfolded on the underground nightclub and dance party scene. It’s glamorous, it’s moving and it’s full of pride.
The Details
When: Until 19 July 2026
Where: Queensland Museum Kurilpa, South Brisbane
Find out more here.
Prison Island
Image credit: Prison Island | Supplied
This isn’t your average escape room. One for the adrenaline junkies and puzzle solvers alike, the globally captivating Prison Island is officially coming to Brisbane and putting you to the test. The interactive adventure features more than 30 unique ‘cells’ that require you and your mates to put your heads together across a combination of action games, sports and strategy. With 90 minutes on the clock, your team needs to conquer as many challenges as possible to earn a coveted spot on the leaderboard—dodging laser beams, escaping cages, and taking part in the most high stakes game of whack-a-mole you’ve ever encountered. You can book here.
The Details
When: Until March 2026
Where: 162 Alfred St, Fortitude Valley
Find out more here.
Under A Modern Sun
Sun-kissed and light-filled, QAGOMA’s new and free exhibition features more than 140 paintings, sculptures, photographs and works of decorative art that paint a picture of what life was like in the Sunshine State from the 1930s to 1950s. Featuring art from renowned Brisbane-based artists including William Bustard, Vida Lahey and Margaret Olley, as well as luminaries from the regions such as Kenneth Macqueen and Joe Alimindjin Rootsey, Under A Modern Sun presents a “light-filled vision of Queensland and reveals the beginnings of more experimental means of expression," QAGOMA Director Chris Saines says. Oh, and did we mention it’s free?
The Details
When: Until 25 January 2026
Where: QAGOMA, South Bank
Find out more here.
The God Of Small Things
Image credit: QAGOMA | Supplied
If you’re intrigued by faith, visual culture, and how the divine finds its way into daily life across cultures, then QAGOMA’s latest free exhibition will be right up your alley. Featuring stunning and rare oleographs dating back to the late 1800s, this insightful showcase was created in collaboration with conservationists based in Bengaluru, India—letting you witness how the divine exists all around us from the other side of the world.
The Details
When: Until 5 October 2026
Where: QAGOMA, South Brisbane
Find out more here.
Precious
Image credit: Museum of Brisbane | Supplied
Explore more than 3,000 items generously loaned from around 30 incredible collections and collectors at Precious—Museum of Brisbane’s new major exhibition that doubles as a veritable treasure trove. With many on display for the first time, this charming assortment offers a glimpse into the cherished collections usually hidden within suburban homes and buildings across Brisbane. From international dolls to ornamental eggs and wind-up toys, Precious covers the rare, beautiful and intriguing while honouring the dedication and stories of Brisbane enthusiasts. The free exhibition is worth a visit for the sheer scale and variety alone, with objects from some of the city’s most fascinating institutions (think the Embroiders’ Guild QLD, Queensland Maritime Museum, and the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia QLD) sitting alongside lovingly gathered curiosities that capture a truly unique side of the people that call Brisbane home.
The Details
When: Until Autumn 2026
Where: Museum of Brisbane, Brisbane City
Find out more here.
Friday 16 January
Cult Coffee Launch Party
Teneriffe has a new kid on the block and they’re celebrating with a morning of free small coffees this Friday. With Coffee Supreme on hand and extra goodies to enjoy, Cult invites you to start your day the right way with a brew that hits the spot and tunes pumping.
The Details
When: 6:30am to 8:30am, Friday 16 January
Where: 113 Commercial Road, Teneriffe
Find out more here.
Duelling Pianos
Two pianos, one stage and a night full of show-stopping performances are on the cards at Felons Barrel Hall, with the crowd-favourite Duelling Pianos show. From classic anthems to guilty pleasures and unexpected bangers, get ready to singalong all night long. Get your tickets here.
The Details
When: Doors 6pm, Friday 16 January
Where: Felons Barrel Hall, Brisbane CBD
Find out more here.
Brisbane Vintage Exchange Night Market
Your favourite vintage market is making its 2026 return after dark. Taking over Albion Peace Centre with a packed lineup of pre-loved clothing, sneakers, jewellery, vinyl, accessories and more, this is the perfect chance to snag a secondhand steal. Entry is free and pets are welcome, plus food trucks will be pulling up to keep you fuelled.
The Details
When: 4pm to 9pm, Friday 16 January
Where: Albion Peace Centre, 102 McDonald Road, Windsor
Find out more here.
Saturday 17 January
Arthur Mobsby Seafood Spectacular
Feast on fresh local seafood to the tune of live entertainment at this annual summer fundraiser that doubles as the most wholesome day out. The Little Ship Club’s 2026 Arthur Mobsby Seafood Spectacular promises plenty of waterfront fun with proceeds supporting Club projects and pontoon upgrades. Grab prawns from the trawler, swing by the Mexican food truck or simply soak in the community atmosphere by the sea.
The Details
When: 10:30am to 7pm, Saturday 17 January
Where: Little Ship Club, 1 Yabby Street, Dunwich
Find out more here.
Sunday 18 January
Westin Wellness Market
Your Sunday refresh has hit a whole new stride with Westin’s first-ever Wellness Market, which will see the Ballroom transform into a hub of feel-good finds. Grab a matcha and explore the lineup of premium brands and artisans—from floral artistry and natural incense to organic skincare and handmade ceramics.
The Details
When: 10am to 12pm, Sunday 18 January
Where: Westin Ballroom, Brisbane CBD
Find out more here.
Allen Iverson Meet & Greet
Certified basketball royalty will be in town this Sunday—giving you a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet the NBA Hall of Famer. Allen Iverson will be kicking back at Culture Kings Brisbane for an exclusive meet and greet where you can snap a professional pic with the GOAT. Tickets are strictly limited, so grab yours here.
The Details
When: 4pm to 5pm, 18 January
Where: Culture Kings, Brisbane CBD
Find out more here.
Brisbane Teacher Market
Whether you’re heading back to school or simply want to get extra organised this new year, the Brisbane Teacher Market offers a curated lineup of stylish stalls by amazing small businesses—from wardrobe staples and planners to accessories and everyday essentials.
The Details
When: 9am to 1pm, Sunday 18 January
Where: The Station, Spring Hill
Find out more here.
Looking for more things to do this weekend? We've got you:
If you like food, try:
If you like exploring, try:
If you like shopping, try:
Main image credit: SupaSocial | Supplied