Ready to get out there and explore what's on in Brisbane? Whether you're a culture seeker looking for a unique way to experience Brisbane's top galleries or a foodie fanging for your next exclusive bite, here's what's on in Brisbane this week, this month and beyond.
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What's On In Brisbane This Week 
Lifeline Bookfest
Shop a million (yes, a million) pre-loved books for as little as $2.50 with the return of Lifeline Bookfest Brisbane. Chock-a-block with fiction, non-fiction, biographies, textbooks, magazines, sci-fi, games, CDs, DVDs, and special rare finds, this is a certifiable book lover’s paradise taking over the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre for nine massive days. Prefer graphics with your novel? The Comic Fest will also be bigger than ever with more than 10,000 comics, memorabilia, and other collectibles. Plus, every sale helps support the 24-hour Lifeline Crisis Support, proving books really can change lives.
The Details
When: 28 June to 6 July
Where: Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, South Brisbane
Find out more here.
Play School LIVE: Once Upon A Time
There’s a bear in there and a chair as well. There are people with games and stories to tell. That’s right, the Play School Live 2025 National Tour is finally coming to Queensland—bringing the delightful show that’s been captivating young audiences for over 50 years to the stage. Get set to embark on a whimsical journey through classic nursery rhymes with stories, songs, dance, and all your favourite characters, including Big Ted, Little Ted, Jemima, Humpty, and Kiya. From Little Miss Muffet to Incy Wincy Spider and the classic Heads and Shoulders, timeless favourites will be performed live by the Play School team in a fun-filled experience your kids will love. Get your tickets here.
The Details
When: 26 June to 6 July
Where: Various locations
Find out more here.
Queensland Ballet’s Triple Bill
Whether you’re looking to dip your (pointed) toe into the world of ballet or simply want to enjoy a beautiful evening celebrating music, movement, and storytelling, this is the night out for you. A ‘triple bill’ lets you experience three shorter ballets—as self-contained stories or just a passion for the dance—and this winter, Queensland Ballet will be showcasing the best of Australian artistry from three acclaimed choreographers on the one stage. Accompanied with live music by Queensland’s Chamber Orchestra, Camerata, each ballet brings a new world to QPAC. There’s the critically acclaimed 4Seasons by Natalie Weir inspired by the sublime music of Vivaldi and Richter, the world premiere of Jack Lister’s Gemini, and A Rhapsody in Motion by Greg Horsman that captures the beauty of a dancer’s daily routine. Grab your tickets here for a three-for-one experience bound to take your breath away.
The Details
When: 27 June to 5 July 2025
Where: QPAC, Russell Street, South Brisbane
Find out more here.
See what else is on this weekend right here.
What's On In Brisbane This Month
Wynnum Fringe
Image credit: Wynnum Fringe | Supplied
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, drag brunches, and Romeo & Juliet retellings—grab your tickets and check out the full program here.
The Details
When: 2 to 20 July 2025
Where: Bay Terrace, Wynnum
Find out more here.
Brisbane French Festival
Image credit: Le Festival | Shots Of Memories
Trés magnifique—the Brisbane French Festival (or Le Festival) is back for its 15th year at South Bank Parklands this July, with plenty for Francophiles to get around. From croissants to live performances and the return of the mini Eiffel Tower (Le Festival’s iconic centrepiece), there are plenty of authentic experiences for you to get your French fix. “We have an incredibly jam-packed program with spectacular performances, music, gourmet food, masterclasses, and so much more,” said Le Festival president and co-founder Betty Moinet. “We are looking forward to welcoming people to our 2025 Le Festival Masterclasses where they can get a taste of everything from French etiquette to the magic of Champagne.” While the full program is yet to be announced, early tickets are available now until midnight on 22 June. Grab yours here.
The Details
When: Friday 4 July to Sunday 6 July
Where: South Bank Cultural Forecourt, South Bank
Find out more here.
Eonarium Enlightenment
Image credit: Eonarium Enlightenment | Supplied
A captivating and immersive experience that’s already wowed 1.5 million people worldwide is set to turn up the lights in Brisbane this winter. Eonarium Enlightenment is making its Australian debut at St Stephen’s Cathedral—treating you to a breathtaking feast for the senses with vibrant light projections, stunning visuals, and alluring soundscapes to the tune of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. You’ll travel through spring, summer, autumn and winter across the 30-minute show, with every corner of the heritage-listed site transformed into a world of colour in this one-of-a-kind 360 degree adventure. Tickets start from $20 for kids and $29 for adults—grab yours here.
The Details
When: 5 July to 27 September
Where: St Stephen’s Cathedral, Brisbane CBD
Find out more here.
The Reserve Wine Expo 2025
Image credit: The Reserve Wine Expo | Supplied
Sip, swirl and savour world-class wines at Brisbane’s most luxurious and one-day-only vino experience. The Reserve Wine Expo is returning for its fourth year to Emporium Hotel, pouring up a handpicked collection from the greatest wine regions across the globe. With a ticket in your hand, you’ll have full access to standout drops in a three-hour tasting journey, including rare prestige Champagne and the world’s most expensive rosé. You’ll even get a Plumm wine glass worth $55 to take home and flex all your newfound tasting notes. Tickets are $170 per person—grab yours here.
The Details
When: 2pm to 5pm, Saturday 12 July
Where: Frangipani Ballroom, Emporium Hotel South Bank
Find out more here.
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.
Destination Scenic Rim Farm Gate Trail
Image Credit: Scenic Rim Farm Gate Trail | Supplied
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
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
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.
Clancestry
Image Credit: Clancestry | Daniel Boud
QPAC’s incredible Clancestry festival is set to return this year, with a celebration of First Nations arts and culture featured across an exciting program of concerts, workshops, theatre and children’s events. As a signature event of the QPAC calendar since 2013, Clancestry provides a platform for both established and emerging First Nations artists to share their stories and talents.
Kicking off this year’s festival is The Visitors—a riveting and powerful play by Muruwari playwright Jane Harrison that explores one of the most impactful and painful days in Australia’s history. Clancestry will also offer a new form of musical collaboration between the Queensland Symphony Orchestra and the musical traditions of the Wagiluk people of Arnhem Land in Wata for one night only. Plus, Bangarra Dance Theatre will be returning for Clancestry with Illume—a kaleidoscope of music, visual arts, and dance exploring the otherworldly language of light. While details of Clancestry’s free program are yet to be announced, you can expect Mob Music, weaving workshops, face painting, and children’s activities. Grab your tickets here.
The Details
When: 23 July to 10 August
Where: QPAC, South Brisbane
Find out more here.
Taylor Made
Ready to relive the eras? The ultimate concert experience paying tribute to Taylor Swift is hitting The Tivoli this July, so you can sing along to all the hits from Love Story to Anti-Hero and everything in between. With an electrifying live band, pop princesses leading the way, and lyrics projected (although we imagine you already know them all), the one-night-only show promises two sequin-studded hours no Swifty will want to miss. Get your tickets here.
The Details
When: 6:30pm Friday 25 July
Where: The Tivoli, Bowen Hills
Find out more here.
CollectFest
Image credit: Collectfest | Supplied
Australia’s first major collectibles festival is set to land in Brisbane late July, bringing passionate hobbyists together under one roof to celebrate all things collectable. From sneakers to trading cards, coins, comics and more, this eclectic event is the perfect opportunity to find, trade and sell—whether you’re looking to complete your unique collection or kickstart a new hobby. There are also a heap of prizes up for grabs, including a guitar hand signed by Taylor Swift worth $3,000. Grab your tickets here.
The Details
When: 26 to 27 July 2025
Where: Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, South Brisbane
Find out more here.
Dining In The Dark
Treat yourself and your special someone to a dining experience like no other with a blindfolded dining experience at C’est Bon. Allow the tastes and aromas of the top secret curated three-course menu to envelope you. Put your trust in the chefs as they take you through a sensory experience of relearning how to use your tastebuds. There are three menu options to choose from, meat, seafood and vegetarian, so the meal can be curated to suit your individual needs.
The Details
Open Season 2025
Image Credit: Open Season | Supplied
The fifth edition of Brisbane’s thrilling music and arts series Open Season has officially kicked off, with an incredible line-up of performances and events taking over iconic venues until July. In fact, the hype is so real, Open Season has just announced a new wave of program additions to supercharge the already stacked offering.
Come Saturday 5 July, the lush Fish Lane Arts Precinct will host a free underground party soundtracked by some of the country’s most forward-thinking DJs and producers, from Moktar to Fukhed. Transforming one of the city’s most iconic urban spaces into a high-energy dancefloor under the bridge, there are no tickets and no barriers—just show up ready to get down.
The ever-popular Blak Day Out has also expanded its line-up, adding Christine Anu, Thelma Plum, Miss Kaninna, and a bunch of new talent to the all-ages event on Saturday 26 July. Open Season has also announced new stand-alone shows to the series including Kita Alexander (who just supported Dua Lip on her sold-out tour), The Dreggs (in what’s tipped to be their only Australian headline tour of the year), and even Skegss have added a second show after the first sold out in a flash. This is all on top of the world-class artists already announced, like Ezra Collective, Kamasi Washington, 1tbsp, The Preatures and more. Find out all the deets and grab your tickets here.
The Details
When: May to July 2025
Where: The Tivoli, The Princess Theatre and QPAC
Find out more here.
Wine & Wagyu
Image credit: Calida Steak & Bar | Supplied
An exclusive dining experience celebrating a match made in heaven—premium Australian wagyu and world-class local wines—has launched at Calida Steak & Bar in South Brisbane. The Wine & Wagyu series is serving up a bi-monthly offering in partnership with renowned producer Stanbroke Meats and leading local wineries curated in collaboration with Samuel Smith & Sons. To kick off the series, the spotlight will be turned on the Barossa from 1 May to 30 June, with a curated menu of rich wagyu cuts paired with iconic wines from Yalumba—a historic family-owned winery operating since 1849. Available for lunch or dinner at Calida, the multi-course spread will showcase the bold richness of premium Stanbroke wagyu alongside the elegance of Yalumba’s Barossa range, from dry-aged bresaola carpaccio with rosé to the El Bistec—a Manhattan cut wagyu served with Yalumba’s iconic signature red. Prefer to keep your hands on the knife and fork? The wagyu menu is also available without wine pairings. Book here.
The Details
When: Until October 2025
Where: Calida Steak & Bar, 164C Grey Street, South Brisbane
Find out more here.
Image Credit: BODY WORLDS | David Trood
Delve beneath the skin with the Australian debut of Dr Gunther von Hagens’ world-renowned exhibition BODY WORLDS. Offering a unique exploration of the human body, emotions, and what it means to live a healthy and fulfilling life, this exhibition has captivated more than 56 million visitors in over 170 cities worldwide. BODY WORLDS presents human specimens donated and preserved through the groundbreaking plastination process, allowing you to understand human anatomy with an unparalleled level of authenticity and science-backed insight into how emotions visibly manifest and affect long-term health. It’s a truly eye-opening experience for visitors of all ages to learn about what goes on within themselves. Grab your tickets here.
The Details
When: From Thursday 12 June
Where: Uptown, Brisbane City
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.
Discovering Ancient Egypt Exhibition
Explore ancient Egypt like never before at Queensland Museum Kurilpa’s Discovering Ancient Egypt exhibition, which is heading to Brisbane for the first time. Featuring over 200 rare Egyptian artifacts from the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden, including sarcophagi, papyrus and statues, this exhibition spans 3000 years of rich human history and is a must-see.
The Details
What's On This Year
One Night Of Adele
Image credit: One Night Of Adele | Supplied
Hey Adele—nevermind, we found someone like you because the UK’s most acclaimed Adele tribute show is coming to Brisbane for one night only. Starring powerhouse vocalist and The Voice UK finalist Naomi Johnson, the soulful night is an ode to one of the most beloved and iconic voices of our time, featuring Adele’s chart-topping hits including Hello, Rolling in the Deep, Easy On Me and more. The show—which will be embarking on an Australia-wide tour—is set to take over The Princess Theatre on 6 August and will undoubtedly be a night full of goosebumps and show-stopping moments. Grab your tickets here.
The Details
When: 7pm Wednesday 6 August
Where: The Princess Theatre, Woolloongabba
Find out more here.
Lior & Westlake
Australian Composer of iconic films Babe and Paper Planes, Nigel Westlake, reached out to stunning vocalist Lior to work on a collaborative album, and we’re so glad he did. Their ARIA Award-winning classical album, Compassion, showcases a combination of ancient Hebrew and Arabic texts, and it might be the album we all need to be listening to right now. Ethereal and full of hope, Lior and the accompanying orchestra will blow you away with their skill and heart. Tickets are on sale from $100-$140, and selling quickly, so make sure you book here.
The Details
Brisbane Fashion Festival
Image credit: Brisbane Fashion Festival | Supplied
Dress up and show up for the best local and national design talent as Brisbane Fashion Festival is set to return in August this year for its 20th anniversary. Hosting Queensland’s largest and most prestigious fashion event in the heart of the city, this year’s program will see more than 50 designers rock the runway ahead of the spring/summer season. It all kicks off on Sunday 24 August with the Resort Show on the brand new Kangaroo Point Bridge, followed by the W Brisbane Fashion Show, the innovative Hancock Prospecting Next Gen Group Show, and the Designer Group Show to round out the runway program. Food and fashion is also set to collide with a spring-inspired two-course luncheon on Monday 25 August, a decadent evening of gastronomy and couture with Queensland Ballet and Layla, and A Luxe Luncheon at Hanworth House in support of Women’s Legal Service Queensland on Wednesday 27 August. As for labels, expect icons like Gail Sorronda, Samantha Ogilvie, Silk Laundry, Camilla and more. Check out the full program and grab your tickets here.
The Details
When: 24 to 29 August
Where: King George Square, Brisbane CBD
Find out more here.
Shostakovich Ten
Ukrainian pianist, Alexander Gavrylyuk, is putting on a show you won’t want to miss. Filled with motifs of rebellion and revolution, the concert will highlight works from famous Stalin-era composers, Prokofiev and Shostakovich. Alongside Gavrylyuk’s electrifying keys will be artist William Kentridge’s film, Oh To Believe In Another World, a visual depiction of Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 10. Ready to get fired up? Tickets are available here.
The Details
Queen by Candlelight
Direct from New York’s Carnegie Hall and following a run of sell-out shows across the UK, New Zealand and Australia, it’s a bohemian rhapsody at Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre with an incredible night of Queen anthems performed by candlelight. Featuring a spectacular cast of West End singers accompanied by an epic live rock band, you’ll experience some of the most iconic songs of all time like you’ve never heard them before. Get your tickets here.
The Details
When: 7:30pm Tuesday 23 September
Where: Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, South Bank
Book here.
Fleetwood Mac by Candelight
Experience the ultimate tribute to Fleetwood Mac—by candlelight. Following a sell-out tour of the UK, this breathtaking concert features a world-class cast of West End singers and an epic live band who’ll perform beloved songs including Little Lies, The Chain, Rhiannon, Don’t Stop and Landslide. Get your tickets here.
The Details
When: 7:30pm Wednesday 24 September
Where: Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, South Bank
Book here.
Melt Festival
Image credit: Melt Festival | Supplied
Back and more fabulous than ever, Brisbane’s annual festival of queer arts and culture is gearing up for a city-wide celebration featuring internationally acclaimed artists, homegrown icons, and boundary-pushing brilliance. From the Queensland premiere of enGORGEd by the sharp-witted and Swarovski-studded Reuben Kaye to Ben Graetz’s Miss First Nation drag pageant, you can expect a powerful line-up full of pride at this year’s Melt Festival. The River Pride Parade will once again be floating from West End to Brisbane Powerhouse, Queer PowerPoint is the geeky and hilarious night out where anyone can take the stage to share their wild theories, and even iconic star of stage and screen Bernadette Petters is getting in on the Melt action with her first Australian performance in over a decade. There’s also an unhinged Queer wrestle-party at The Tivoli, a sapphic burlesque show, and 1000 voices—a major choral event uniting queer and ally singers in one monumental moment. Check out the full program and grab your tickets here.
The Details
When: 22 October to 9 November
Where: Various locations
Find out more here.
Cinematic: The Oscars
It’s award season, and you know what that means—all anyone is talking about is who deserved to win, who was robbed, and why did that movie win so many awards? The Queensland Symphony Orchestra is on the same page, presenting Cinematic, a celebration of iconic, award-winning scores. Returning for its sixth year, the live orchestra will be performing all sorts of music from the famous Star Wars Suite to The Little Mermaid’s Under The Sea. Suit up and strut your stuff on the red carpet and don’t forget to snap some pics with the musicians (who will be dressed to impress in their best movie-inspired costumes).
The Details
Northern Lights, Southern Stars
Performing all sorts from Mozart to Musical Theatre, Brissy baritone, Jake Lyle, and internationally-renowned conductor, Sam Weller, are a home-grown duo that will knock your socks off with their talent and versatility. Jake Lyle, at only 21 years old, is an award-winning force to be reckoned with. We’ve seen him perform, and can confidently state that his vocals and stage presence are unmissable. Make sure you book tickets now to see this playlist of opera at its finest.
The Details
Home Alone In Concert
It’s that time of year again—time to put up the Christmas tree, wrap the presents and set the booby traps (just kidding… unless?)—and what better way to start December than to see a 90s Christmas classic you’ve surely seen many times before, Home Alone, but bigger and better this time with a live orchestra and choir to accompany? It’s not Christmas until Culkin screams at the mirror, so grab your hot choccies, pop on those Christmas sweaters and bring the whole family along (try not to forget the kids). Tickets are already on sale here, and are ranging from $79-$135.
The Details
Snowman In Concert
Step into the magical world of Raymond Briggs’ The Snowman as it comes to life with the Brisbane orchestra. Experience the Oscar nominated film in a new light, with Howard Blake’s nostalgic musical score. The enchanting story of a young boy and his snowman embarking on a whimsical winter journey has captivated hearts for over 40 years. Whether it’s your first time or your hundredth, The Snowman continues to evoke the wonder of childhood and the joy of the holiday season, making it a timeless experience for all ages.
The Details
Looking for weekend plans? Check out what’s on in Brisbane this weekend right here.
Image credit: Regatta Hotel | Supplied