Brisbane Events & Festivals 2026, What's On

Brisbane's Major Annual Events and Festivals

Brisbane's events calendar has been transformed by the city's rapid growth and its role as host of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The Queensland capital now hosts a mix of world-class cultural festivals, major sporting events, community celebrations and arts programs that reflect the city's increasing confidence as a destination.

August, Ekka (Royal Queensland Show)

The Ekka, the Royal Queensland Show at RNA Showgrounds in Bowen Hills, is Queensland's largest annual event, drawing over 400,000 visitors across 10 days. Agricultural competitions, the famous Ekka strawberry sundaes, rides, animal nurseries and pavilion displays make Ekka a beloved Queensland tradition. The Wednesday public holiday (RNA Show Day) applies only to the Brisbane area.

September, Brisbane Festival and Riverfire

The Brisbane Festival is one of Australia's largest arts festivals, running for three weeks in September with theatre, dance, music, circus and free events across South Bank, QUT and city venues. Riverfire, the spectacular fireworks display over the Brisbane River that traditionally opened the festival, has returned as a standalone event. The Story Bridge and Kangaroo Point cliffs are prime viewing spots.

October to November, QPAC Performing Arts Season

Queensland Performing Arts Centre at South Bank presents its major performance season from October, including touring Broadway and West End productions, the Queensland Symphony Orchestra's flagship concerts and Queensland Ballet performances.

April to May, Brisbane Comedy Festival

The Brisbane Comedy Festival at the Powerhouse and Brisbane City Hall presents national and international comedians across several weeks in autumn.

March, Brisbane Queer Film Festival

One of Australia's leading LGBTIQ+ film festivals, screening at the New Farm Cinemas and Palace James St in March.

Year-Round, South Bank

South Bank Parklands is Brisbane's outdoor living room and hosts regular free events, markets, beach swimming and cultural programming year-round. The Streets Beach free pool, restaurant precinct and the Queensland Museum and Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) are key attractions.