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
- What's On In Brisbane This Month
- What's On In Brisbane This Year
- Theatre Shows Coming Up In Brisbane
What's On In Brisbane This Week
Luminous Lantern Parade
Follow the glow to South Bank Parklands, because the dazzling Luminous Lantern Parade is back for another year of colour, culture and celebration. Kicking off this Friday at 5:30pm, the breathtaking event kicks off Multicultural Queensland Month with the highlight being the lantern procession at dusk, before a high-energy music performance from around the world closes out the festivities. It’s wholesome, family-friendly and a truly unforgettable spectacle.
The Details
When: 5:30pm to 9:30pm, Friday 1 August
Where: South Bank Parklands, South Bank
Find out more here.
GreazeFest
Image credit: GreazeFest | Phil Kellow
Fancy a blast from the past? Then you need to follow the horsepower and hairspray to Redland Showgrounds this weekend for the return of GreazeFest—celebrating 25 years of hot rods, rockabilly riffs, and pin-up perfection. As Australia’s longest-running and most iconic rockabilly and Kustom Kulture festival, this full-throttle celebration is all about vintage cars, fashion, and rock n’ roll, featured across market stalls, art displays and a show-stopping live music program. The main event is the Hot Rod Show, which will bring together 400+ enthusiasts showing off American and Australian classic cards, as well as the famous Pinup Party with its gravity-defying hairdos and fabulous photo moments. Grab your tickets here.
The Details
When: Friday 1 August to Sunday 2 August
Where: Redland Showgrounds, Cleveland
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.
Love Follows A Line
Image credit: Love Follows A Line | Claudia Baxter
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.
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.
See what else is on this weekend right here.
What's On In Brisbane This Month
Ekka
Image credit: Ekka | Supplied
Giddy up and get ready to fill your cup with the best of Queensland—the Ekka is back and better than ever this August. From the competitions to the strawberry sundaes, animal experiences, rides, free entertainment, and dagwood dogs, Brisbane Showgrounds will once again be transformed into a mecca of country spirit expecting around 400,000 people to embrace the iconic show. This year, it’ll be even harder to decide where to splash your cash with more than 90 new showbags added to the Ekka’s mega line-up—starting from as little as $5 a pop. But, saving your dollars for an extra bag is made easy with the Ekka’s new family bundles, letting you feed a family of four from $30 (as well as low-cost eats across all Ekka food outlets) and 50c train fares to the recently opened Exhibition Station located in the Brisbane Showgrounds. Plus, we’re finally in the Ekka of the future, with a new Ekka Fun Pass App which gives you a digital ride card that can be scanned as people board the ride—letting you skip the wait at the ticket booth. Check out the full program here and grab your tickets (with the option to preorder a strawberry sundae) here.
The Details
When: 9 to 17 August
Where: Brisbane Showgrounds, Bowen Hills
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
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
Moreton Bay Food + Wine Festival
Image credit: Moreton Bay Food + Wine Festival | Supplied
From celebrity chefs to top-notch wineries, and masterclasses, Moreton Bay Food + Wine Festival is back to transform the northern coastline into the ultimate culinary playground. Experience the very best of Australia’s award-winning artisans and producers with 180+ exhibitors setting up shop along 1km of picturesque waterfront and the nation’s best culinary talent in attendance like Miguel Maestre, Julie Goodwin and Matt Golinski. The three-day festival will also play host to 100+ curated events, so you can sip and savour live cooking demonstrations, chef-hosted lunches, hands-on pasta making workshops, Japanese matcha ceremonies, and so much more. This year even has a luxury newcomer in the form of The Oasis Club—an 18+ VIP precinct where guests can enjoy premium drinks, relaxed waterfront lounges, daily wine masterclasses and pop-up restaurants from the likes of Donna Chang and Byblós. Whether you're looking for a day trip or a full weekend escape, there’s plenty on to fill your cup with a glass in hand and the bay as your backdrop. Grab your tickets here.
The Details
When: Friday 22 August to Sunday 24 August
Where: Apex Park, Woody Point, Redcliffe Peninsula
Find out more here.
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.
The Handmade + Plant Based Market
Want to spend your weekend caring for the planet whilst treating yourself? The Handmade + Plant Based Market is all about taking it nice and slow, where products are intentional and sustainability is king. Popping up Bowen Hills’ Old Museum on Sunday 24 August, this one-day-only event is all about learning how and what we can do better to reduce our footprint—all while supporting local small businesses. From 100% plant-based products to high-quality handmade pieces, this conscious market will give you plenty to explore. Make sure to register for free entry here; otherwise, it will be $5 at the door.
The Details
When: 10am to 3pm, Sunday 24 August
Where: The Old Museum, 480 Gregory Terrace, Bowen Hills
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
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. Tickets go on sale 5 August, but you can sign up for the waitlist here.
The Details
When: From 4 September
Where: 162 Alfred St, Fortitude Valley
Find out more here.
Ray Chen in Recital
Image credit: Ray Chen | Supplied
With 1 million+ followers on Instagram (and counting), viral social media sensation and renowned violinist Ray Chen is returning to Brisbane for one-night-only this September. Joined by pianist Julio Elizalde, the Brissy-raised virtuoso has dazzled audiences across the world and is set to light up the QPAC stage on 14 September, performing pieces by musical giants including Beethoven, Bach and Bazzini. Tickets range from $80 to $170 and are likely to sell out fast, so make sure to get yours here for a night that is—musically speaking—out of this world.
The Details
When: Sunday 14 September
Where: QPAC Concert Hall, South Bank
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